If you are searching for a side dish that combines irresistible crunch with fluffy, tender interiors, this Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. These golden bites bring together the comfort of perfectly cooked baby potatoes with a crisp, seasoned crust that will delight your taste buds every time. They are incredibly simple to make but feel wonderfully special, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends. Once you try this recipe, it might just become your new go-to potato dish that everyone will ask for again and again.

Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these Crispy Smashed Potatoes, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients that are easy to find but pack a punch in flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from creating that perfect crispy crust to adding a burst of savory seasoning and fresh color.

Baby potatoes (1½ lbs): Yukon Gold or red potatoes work beautifully for their creamy texture and size.
Salt (2 tbsp for boiling + ½ tsp for seasoning): Essential for seasoning the water and the potatoes themselves to enhance flavor.
Olive oil or melted butter (3 tbsp): This provides the rich, golden crispiness that’s so delightful.
Garlic powder (1 tsp): Adds a warm, savory note without overpowering the potatoes.
Smoked paprika (½ tsp, optional): Introduces a subtle smoky depth and a hint of color.
Black pepper (¼ tsp): Perfect for a mild kick of heat.
Fresh parsley (2 tbsp, chopped): Adds a refreshing pop of green and brightness as a garnish.
Grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup, optional): For an extra layer of savory, nutty flavor that melts beautifully.

How to Make Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil, adding 2 tablespoons of salt to season the water thoroughly. Toss in the baby potatoes and let them cook until they are fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. This gentle boiling softens the potatoes perfectly while still maintaining their shape. Once done, drain well and allow the potatoes to cool just enough so you can handle them without burning your fingers.

Step 2: Smash the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to a crispy 425°F (220°C). On a greased baking sheet, carefully place the potatoes spaced evenly. Using a fork or the bottom of a glass, gently press each potato down until it is roughly half an inch thick. The smashing is key because it creates more surface area that will crisp up beautifully in the oven, transforming these humble potatoes into a uniquely crunchy treat.

Step 3: Season and Roast

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil (or melted butter), garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle this fragrant seasoning mixture evenly over all your smashed potatoes. Place the sheet in the oven and roast the potatoes for about 25 to 30 minutes, flipping them halfway through so they brown evenly on both sides. The result? A perfect golden crust that’s irresistibly crunchy on the outside yet soft and fluffy on the inside.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and your choice of grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes while they are still warm. The parsley adds freshness and color, while the Parmesan brings a savory, slightly nutty element that complements the crispiness spectacularly. Serve these crispy wonders with your favorite dipping sauce or simply as they are for a crowd-pleasing snack or side.

How to Serve Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley are a classic finish, but you can also experiment with chives, rosemary, or thyme for a different herbal punch. A light dusting of smoked paprika or even a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten things up. Grated Parmesan or crumbled feta offer a creamy salty contrast that elevates the dish.

Side Dishes

This Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe pairs beautifully with grilled proteins like chicken, steak, or fish. They also make a fantastic companion to roasted vegetables and a crisp green salad for a balanced, satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. Think of these potatoes as your versatile sidekick, capable of complementing endless main courses.

Creative Ways to Present

For casual entertaining, serve these potatoes on a rustic wooden board with a trio of dipping sauces such as garlic aioli, spicy ketchup, and herbed sour cream. For a more elegant touch, plate them individually with a drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of toasted nuts. You can even turn them into finger foods by skewering a couple together, making them perfect party appetizers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover crispy smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind they are best enjoyed within this timeframe to retain their crisp texture and fresh flavor.

Freezing

If you want to freeze these potatoes, it is best to do so before baking. After boiling and smashing, lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready, roast from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to cook time. This will preserve their texture and make for a convenient quick side dish later on.

Reheating

To bring back that wonderful crispiness, reheat leftover crispy smashed potatoes in a preheated oven or air fryer at 375°F until warmed through and crisp again, about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, which tends to make the potatoes soggy and less enjoyable.

FAQs

What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape well and have a creamy texture inside. Their size is perfect for smashing and roasting evenly.

Can I use butter instead of olive oil?

Absolutely! Melted butter adds a rich, savory flavor that enhances the golden crispiness. Feel free to use either based on your preference.

Is smoked paprika necessary?

Smoked paprika is optional, but it adds a wonderful smoky depth and beautiful color. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with regular paprika or simply omit it.

How do I make sure the potatoes get crispy?

The key is smashing them to increase the surface area, coating them generously with oil or butter, and roasting at a high temperature. Flipping them halfway helps achieve an even, golden crisp.

Can I make these potatoes vegan?

Yes! Use olive oil instead of butter and skip the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan alternative to keep the recipe completely plant-based and still delicious.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe is a joyful celebration of simple ingredients turning into something spectacular. Whether as a side dish for dinner or a crunchy snack, these potatoes promise to bring smiles and satisfy cravings with every bite. I encourage you to try making this at home—you’ll quickly see why it has become one of my all-time favorite ways to enjoy potatoes.