Smashed Potatoes

Smashed Potatoes are a simple yet delicious side dish that takes the humble potato to new heights with a crispy, golden exterior and a fluffy, soft interior. These oven-baked potatoes are seasoned with garlic and fresh rosemary, making them a savory accompaniment to any meal. With just a few ingredients, this recipe is easy to prepare and offers a flavorful twist on traditional roasted potatoes.

Ingredients

• 1 lb baby potatoes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Boil the baby potatoes in a large pot of water until they are fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
3. Drain the potatoes well and arrange them on a baking sheet.
4. Using a fork or potato masher, gently smash each potato to flatten them slightly.
5. Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, minced garlic, and fresh rosemary.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy around the edges.
7. Serve hot, and enjoy your perfectly crispy smashed potatoes!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

1. Cheesy Smashed Potatoes: Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese, such as cheddar or parmesan, over the smashed potatoes before baking for a cheesy twist.
2. Bacon and Chive Smashed Potatoes: Top the smashed potatoes with crispy bacon bits and freshly chopped chives for a savory topping.
3. Spicy Smashed Potatoes: For an extra kick, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of paprika before baking.
4. Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes: Mix grated parmesan cheese into the olive oil and garlic for a rich, umami flavor.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until crispy and heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet on medium heat for a few minutes to regain some of the crispiness.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
   Yes, you can use larger potatoes like russets or Yukon golds. Just make sure to cut them into smaller pieces to boil evenly.
2. Can I prepare smashed potatoes in advance?
   Yes, you can boil the potatoes ahead of time and refrigerate them. When you’re ready to serve, smash, season, and bake them as directed.
3. Can I make smashed potatoes without garlic?
   Absolutely! You can omit the garlic or substitute it with other herbs like thyme or oregano for a different flavor profile.
4. How do I make the potatoes crispier?
   To achieve extra crispiness, make sure the potatoes are well-drained after boiling, and be generous with the olive oil. You can also broil them for a minute or two at the end of baking.
5. Can I use fresh rosemary?
   Yes, fresh rosemary works best in this recipe, but you can use dried rosemary as a substitute. Just reduce the amount to about 1 teaspoon since dried herbs are more potent.
6. Can I freeze smashed potatoes?
   Freezing smashed potatoes is not ideal as it may affect the texture. It’s best to enjoy them fresh or store them in the fridge for a few days.
7. Can I use sweet potatoes for this recipe?
   Yes, sweet potatoes can be used in place of regular potatoes for a slightly different flavor and texture. Just adjust the baking time as sweet potatoes might cook faster.
8. How do I avoid soggy smashed potatoes?
   Ensure that the potatoes are fully drained after boiling and that they are smashed gently, allowing enough space for the oil to coat the surface for crispiness.
9. Can I use a different oil instead of olive oil?
   Yes, you can use other oils like vegetable oil, avocado oil, or melted butter, depending on your preference.
10. Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of the oven?
    You can try making them in a skillet on the stovetop, though they won’t be as uniformly crispy as when baked. You’ll need to cook them over medium-high heat in oil until golden.

Conclusion

Smashed Potatoes are a versatile and flavorful side dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to please a crowd. The combination of crispy edges and soft interiors makes them a perfect addition to any meal, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. With simple ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and rosemary, you can elevate your potatoes with minimal effort. Whether you enjoy them as-is or try one of the many variations, smashed potatoes are bound to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

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