If you love crispy potatoes, you're in for a treat! My Smashed Crispy Potatoes with Garlic Herb Butter are the perfect side dish. They're golden, crunchy, and packed with flavor. In this guide, I will take you through simple steps using fresh herbs and garlic butter to elevate your potato game. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a snack, these potatoes will impress everyone. Let’s get started!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Perfectly Crispy: The high roasting temperature ensures the potatoes develop a delightful crispy exterior while remaining tender inside.
- Garlic Herb Butter: This recipe features a rich garlic herb butter that elevates the flavor, making each bite incredibly savory.
- Versatile Side Dish: These smashed potatoes pair beautifully with a variety of main courses, from grilled meats to vegetarian dishes.
- Fun to Make: Smashed potatoes are not only delicious but also a fun cooking activity, perfect for involving family and friends in the kitchen.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh Herbs and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Additional Items
- Olive oil (for drizzling)
- Optional garnish (smoked paprika)
To make smashed crispy potatoes, you need a few simple items. First, choose baby potatoes. I love using Yukon Gold or red ones because they are creamy and hold their shape well. You’ll need about 1.5 pounds for a nice serving.
Next, get unsalted butter. Four tablespoons, softened to room temperature, work best. This butter will bring richness to your dish. Don't forget the garlic! Four cloves, minced, will add a wonderful aroma and flavor.
For fresh herbs, grab parsley and rosemary. You want two tablespoons of parsley and one tablespoon of rosemary, both finely chopped. They add color and a fresh taste.
Seasoning is key, so use one teaspoon of sea salt and half a teaspoon of black pepper. These will enhance all the flavors.
Lastly, you’ll drizzle some olive oil over the potatoes before roasting. It helps them turn golden and crispy. If you like, sprinkle some smoked paprika on top for extra flavor and color before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat Oven
First, set your oven to preheat at 450°F (230°C). A hot oven makes the potatoes crisp.
Boil Potatoes
Next, put the baby potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil, then lower the heat to medium. Cook the potatoes for about 15 minutes. They should be soft enough to pierce with a fork.
Smash and Prepare for Roasting
After boiling, drain the potatoes in a colander. Let them cool for about 5 minutes. This cooling makes them easier to handle. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the cooled potatoes on the sheet. Use the bottom of a glass or a potato masher to press down each potato until it flattens to about ½ inch thick. Be gentle so they don’t break apart.
Prepare Garlic Herb Butter
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped rosemary, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir well until all the ingredients combine into a fragrant herb butter.
Apply Butter and Drizzle
Spoon or spread the garlic herb butter over each flattened potato. Make sure each potato is well-coated. Drizzle some olive oil on top to help with roasting.
Roast in the Oven
Put the baking sheet in your preheated oven. Roast the potatoes for 25-30 minutes. Look for a golden brown color and a crispy outside. This is when they are ready to enjoy!
Variations
Flavor Enhancements
You can mix things up with different herbs. Try adding thyme or chives for extra flavor. Each herb brings its unique taste. Thyme gives a warm, earthy note. Chives add a bright, oniony touch. You can also mix herbs to create your favorite blend. This way, your smashed crispy potatoes will always taste new.
Vegan Adaptation
If you want a vegan option, swap the butter for a plant-based alternative. Vegan butter works great here. You can also use olive oil for a lighter touch. Just make sure your vegan butter has a good flavor. This keeps the garlic herb butter taste strong and tasty.
Spicy Version
For those who love a kick, make a spicy version. Add chili flakes or spicy seasonings to the garlic herb butter. A pinch of cayenne pepper also works well. This will give your potatoes a nice heat. You can adjust the spice level based on your taste. Enjoy the contrast between the crispy potato and the spicy butter!
Pro Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: For the best texture and flavor, opt for Yukon Gold or red potatoes as they hold their shape well while becoming crispy.
- Get Creative with Herbs: Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme or chives to customize the flavor of your garlic herb butter.
- Ensure Even Cooking: Make sure your potatoes are evenly smashed to about ½-inch thickness to ensure they cook uniformly and achieve the perfect crisp.
- Monitor Roasting Time: Keep an eye on the potatoes during roasting; all ovens vary, and you want them to be golden brown and crispy, not overcooked.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
Store leftover smashed crispy potatoes in an airtight container. Let them cool first. They will stay fresh for about three days. Make sure not to stack them too high to avoid sogginess. If you can, place parchment paper between layers. This helps absorb moisture.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, use the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes. Drizzle a little olive oil on top to keep them crispy. You can also use an air fryer. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, checking for crispiness.
Freezing Options
You can freeze smashed crispy potatoes for later meals. After cooking, let them cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can stay frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, you can use different types of potatoes. While baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes are best, other options work too. Try fingerling or new potatoes for great taste. Russet potatoes also work well for a fluffier inside. The key is to pick waxy potatoes for a creamy texture when smashed.
How do I ensure my potatoes are crispy?
To make your potatoes crispy, follow these tips:
- Boil them well: Cook until fork-tender, but not too soft.
- Smash gently: Flatten them to about ½ inch to create more surface area.
- Use enough oil: Drizzle with olive oil before roasting for a golden finish.
- High heat roasting: Bake at 450°F for that perfect crunch.
What can I serve with smashed potatoes?
These smashed potatoes pair well with many dishes. Consider serving them with:
- Grilled meats: Chicken, steak, or fish make great options.
- Veggies: Roasted asparagus or sautéed greens add color and flavor.
- Dips: Try sour cream, yogurt, or a tangy aioli for extra taste.
- Salads: A fresh side salad balances the rich flavors.
This blog post covered how to make tasty smashed potatoes. We explored the key ingredients, including fresh herbs and butter. I shared detailed steps for cooking and roasting, plus tips for crispy results. Variations allow for extra flavors or vegan options. Proper storage and reheating methods keep leftovers fresh and crisp. Enjoying these delicious potatoes can elevate any meal. Remember, simple changes can create delightful dishes that impress family and friends.
