The moment I first tasted Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes, it felt like a revelation—simple ingredients bringing a crunch that could steal the spotlight from any main dish. With their buttery insides and golden, textured exteriors, these potatoes are the epitome of comfort food, promising quick prep with a hearty dose of satisfaction. Not only do they please the crowd, but they also elevate any dinner gathering into something memorable. Imagine serving these crispy delights alongside your favorite entrees or sharing them during a cozy family meal. Ready to transform your kitchen into a hub of deliciousness? Let’s dive into the recipe and make magic happen with your potatoes!
Why Are These Potatoes So Irresistible?
Golden Crunch: The Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes feature a perfectly crackling exterior that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Effortless Prep: With simple pantry staples and minimal prep time, anyone can create this crowd-pleasing dish!
Ultimate Comfort Food: Each bite delivers a luscious, buttery center that beautifully contrasts with the crunch.
Versatile Pairing: These potatoes are a fantastic side, complementing everything from grilled meats to vegan options—try them alongside Oven Fried Chicken for a delicious combo!
Great for Gatherings: Ideal for impressing guests or satisfying family cravings, these potatoes are sure to be the star of your dinner table!
Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes Ingredients
For the Potatoes
• Small Potatoes – 700 g; use waxy varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes for the best crunch.
• Medium Potatoes – 1000 g; adds a soft center that contrasts beautifully with the crispy skin; feel free to substitute with all-purpose potatoes.
For Cooking
• Salt – 1 tbsp for boiling; enhances flavor while cooking for those Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes.
• Unsalted Butter – 30 g, melted; provides richness and aids in achieving a golden, crispy finish—vegan margarine works as a great substitute.
• Olive Oil – 1 tbsp; adds flavor and helps achieve that crunchy texture; other oils like avocado oil can be used as alternatives.
For Seasoning
• Salt – 3/4 tsp, for sprinkling; essential for that tasty final touch.
• Black Pepper – 1/4 tsp; adds subtle heat—adjust according to your taste preferences.
Optional Garnish
• Finely Chopped Parsley – elevates presentation and adds a hint of freshness to your dish.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Step 1: Boil Potatoes
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil and adding 1 tablespoon of salt. Carefully add the small potatoes (700 g) and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. For the medium potatoes (1000 g), boil for about 30 minutes. Aim for a soft texture that holds its shape, as this will contribute to the overall crunchiness in your Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes.
Step 2: Preheat Oven
While your potatoes are simmering, preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) or 180°C for a fan oven. This temperature is crucial—it ensures that the potatoes achieve that perfect golden crispiness as they bake. Once the oven reaches the desired temperature, you’ll be ready to prepare the next steps while the potatoes finish boiling.
Step 3: Drain & Dry
Once the potatoes are boiled to perfection, carefully drain them in a colander. Allow them to steam dry for about 5 minutes. This step is essential for removing excess moisture, which is key to achieving that crisp texture you want in your Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes. Make sure they are allowed to cool slightly to prevent burning your fingers in the next step!
Step 4: Smash Potatoes
Transfer the dried potatoes onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Use a fork or potato masher to gently flatten each potato, pressing down enough to create a slight smash while keeping them intact. Aim for a thickness of about 1-2 cm. Their cracks and crevices are essential for extra crispiness, so don’t be shy with the smashing!
Step 5: Steam Dry Again
Let the smashed potatoes rest for an additional 5 minutes. This quick drying phase helps to ensure that the exterior will turn golden brown during baking. Patience is key here—allowing the potatoes to sit undisturbed will lead to that irresistible crispy texture we desire in these Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes.
Step 6: Add Flavor
Now it’s time to add flavor! Drizzle melted butter (30 g) and olive oil (1 tablespoon) generously over the smashed potatoes. Sprinkle with ¾ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper for a burst of flavor. This mixture not only enriches the taste but also promotes a beautiful golden finish during baking, turning your potatoes into a true delight.
Step 7: Bake
Pop the baking tray into the preheated oven and bake the potatoes for 45 minutes if they are small, or 55 minutes for medium-sized potatoes. Keep an eye on them as they bake; you’ll know they’re done when they turn deep golden brown and crispy. This is the moment that transforms your Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes into a stunning centerpiece for any meal.
Step 8: Serve
Finally, remove the crispy smashed potatoes from the oven and serve them hot. For an extra touch, garnish with finely chopped parsley, adding a pop of color and freshness. These Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes are now ready to be enjoyed, making them the perfect accompaniment for any main dish or a delightful snack on their own!
Make Ahead Options
These Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can boil and smash the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, allowing busy weeknights to feel effortless. Simply follow the initial steps of boiling and smashing, then store the flattened potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain their quality, ensure they’re completely cooled before sealing. When you’re ready to serve, drizzle with melted butter and oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, then bake straight from the fridge for 45-55 minutes for that unbeatable crunch. With this make-ahead option, you’ll enjoy the same delicious flavors with minimal effort!
Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes and tailor them to your taste buds!
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Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle shredded cheese like cheddar or parmesan on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a gooey, melty finish. The combination of flavors creates an irresistible indulgence.
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Garlic Infusion: Mix minced garlic into the olive oil before drizzling over the smashed potatoes for a rich, aromatic twist. This will add depth and a delightful aroma that fills the kitchen.
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Sweet Potato Swap: Use sweet potatoes instead of regular ones for a naturally sweet and nutritious alternative. Their unique flavor provides a delicious contrast to the crispy exterior.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the olive oil drizzle for a hint of heat before baking. The spicy crunch will make these smashed potatoes an exciting addition to your dinner spread.
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Herb Medley: Incorporate freshly chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme into the seasoning mix for an aromatic touch. Fresh herbs will elevate the flavor profile, giving you that bistro-style taste at home.
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Balsamic Glaze Finish: Drizzle with balsamic reduction right before serving for a sweet and tangy flavor burst. The glaze adds sophistication and a pop of color that enchants the plate.
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Crispy Shallots: Top your smashed potatoes with crispy fried shallots for an added crunch and sweet onion flavor. This delightful garnish will take your potato dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.
For a well-rounded meal, consider pairing your delightful potatoes with a refreshing Cucumber Avocado Salad or some flavorful Garlic Butter Potatoes for extra comfort food goodness!
What to Serve with Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Experience a feast for the senses by finding the perfect companions for your deliciously crunchy potatoes that will elevate your meal!
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy, tender grilled chicken offers a flavorful contrast, perfectly balancing the crispy texture of the potatoes.
- Creamy Garlic Dip: Serve alongside a garlic-infused dip that adds creaminess and a delightful kick, enhancing every bite.
- Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of roasted vegetables brings freshness and a delightful crunch that complements the comfort of the potatoes.
- Beef Tenderloin: The rich, savory flavors of succulent beef tenderloin match beautifully with the buttery inside of the smashed potatoes, creating a comforting plate.
- Herbed Quinoa Salad: Light, fluffy quinoa sprinkled with herbs adds a refreshing element, offering a healthful contrast to the indulgent potatoes.
- Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: The sweet and tangy notes of Brussels sprouts glazed in balsamic vinegar create harmony, balancing the richness of the meal.
- Chardonnay: A chilled glass of vibrant Chardonnay brings brightness, enhancing flavors while cutting through the richness of the dishes.
- Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a light, velvety chocolate mousse for dessert—its silky texture offers a satisfying finish after the deliciously crispy potatoes.
Storage Tips for Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes
- Room Temperature: Allow your Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes to cool completely before storing. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
- Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness, ensuring they retain that delightful crunch.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooled smashed potatoes in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months! Reheat directly from frozen at 200°C (390°F) for 20-25 minutes to enjoy their crispy goodness again.
Expert Tips for Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes
- Dry Thoroughly: Ensure potatoes are fully dried after boiling to avoid steam, which prevents crispiness.
- Avoid Flipping: Resist the temptation to flip the potatoes while baking; this allows them to develop a perfectly crunchy exterior.
- Smash Firmly: Flatten the potatoes firmly enough to create cracks, which increases surface area for that irresistible crunch.
- Oil Infusion: For extra flavor, infuse garlic or herbs into your melted butter and olive oil mixture before drizzling.
- Even Spacing: Arrange potatoes with ample space on the tray; crowded potatoes won’t crisp up as well when baking.
Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes are best for Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes?
I recommend using small waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes for the best crunch. These varieties hold their shape well and offer a delightful texture. Medium potatoes can also be used, as they add a soft center that contrasts perfectly with the crispy outer layer. Just make sure they’re not too starchy!
How should I store leftover Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes?
Allow your smashed potatoes to cool completely before storing them. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours. For longer storage, transfer them to an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll last for up to 3 days. When reheating, place them back in the oven to regain that delicious crispiness—just about 15-20 minutes should do the trick!
Can I freeze Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes?
Absolutely! For freezing, first ensure your smashed potatoes have cooled completely. Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, where they can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat without thawing at 200°C (390°F) for about 20-25 minutes for that perfect crispy texture.
What if my smashed potatoes aren’t crispy enough after baking?
If your Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes aren’t as crispy as you hoped, there could be a few reasons. Be sure to thoroughly dry your boiled potatoes before smashing; excess moisture can hinder crispiness. Also, avoid flipping the potatoes while they bake, as this allows them to develop that golden exterior. If they need a boost, consider increasing the oven temperature slightly or baking them a bit longer, checking regularly to prevent burning!
Are Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes gluten-free?
Yes, they are! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Just make sure to double-check any processed ingredients you might use to ensure they are gluten-free as well!
Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes That Will Steal Your Heart
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil and adding 1 tablespoon of salt. Carefully add the small potatoes (700 g) and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until tender. For the medium potatoes (1000 g), boil for about 30 minutes.
- While your potatoes are simmering, preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) or 180°C for a fan oven.
- Once the potatoes are boiled, carefully drain them in a colander and allow them to steam dry for about 5 minutes.
- Transfer the dried potatoes onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper and smash each potato gently with a fork or masher.
- Let the smashed potatoes rest for an additional 5 minutes to dry out slightly.
- Drizzle melted butter and olive oil over the smashed potatoes, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes for small potatoes or 55 minutes for medium-sized potatoes until deeply golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and serve hot, garnished with finely chopped parsley.