Smashed Red Potatoes Recipe
There’s something wonderfully comforting about a plate of smashed red potatoes. They’re buttery, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, making them the perfect side dish for any meal. Whether you’re serving them alongside grilled chicken, a hearty steak, or even a vegetarian dish, these potatoes elevate any dinner to the next level. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite Smashed Red Potatoes Recipe that you’ll want to make again and again!
Why It’s My Go-To
This Smashed Red Potatoes Recipe is my go-to for several reasons. First, it’s straightforward and requires minimal prep time, making it ideal for weeknight dinners. Second, the flavor is out of this world, thanks to the perfect blend of seasonings. And lastly, smashed potatoes have a delightful texture that makes them so fun to eat. They’re crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and utterly delicious!
What Goes Into Smashed Red Potatoes Recipe
To create these delectable smashed red potatoes, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds baby red potatoes – The star of the dish, these potatoes are creamy and flavorful.
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted – Adds richness and depth of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps achieve that crispy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a subtle kick.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder – Brings a lovely aromatic flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder – Complements the garlic perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A mix of herbs that adds a Mediterranean touch.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – Brightens up the dish and adds freshness.
Equipment Breakdown
Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary equipment:
- Large pot – For boiling the potatoes.
- Baking sheet – To smash and roast the potatoes.
- Potato masher or fork – For smashing the potatoes.
- Whisk – To mix the melted butter and olive oil with the seasonings.
- Oven mitts – Safety first when handling hot items!
Smashed Red Potatoes Recipe in Steps
Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to whip up these amazing smashed red potatoes!
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Start by placing the baby red potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes or until they’re fork-tender.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
While the potatoes are boiling, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to achieving that crispy exterior.
Step 3: Drain and Smash
Once the potatoes are done, drain them in a colander. Gently place each potato on a baking sheet. Use a potato masher or fork to smash each potato, pressing down until it’s about half an inch thick. Don’t worry about making them perfect; the rustic look adds to their charm!
Step 4: Seasoning Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning until well combined. This mixture will add incredible flavor to your smashed potatoes.
Step 5: Drizzle and Roast
Drizzle the seasoning mixture generously over each smashed potato. Make sure to coat them well for maximum flavor. Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the potatoes are out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately and watch them disappear!
In-Season Flavor Ideas
Want to take your smashed red potatoes to the next level? Consider adding some seasonal flavors:
- Fresh herbs – Try rosemary or thyme for an earthy twist.
- Cheese – Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or feta cheese for added richness.
- Roasted garlic – Mix in roasted garlic for a deeper garlic flavor.
- Chili flakes – Add a pinch for a spicy kick.
Slip-Ups to Skip
To ensure your smashed red potatoes turn out perfectly every time, here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Don’t overcook the potatoes; they should be fork-tender but not falling apart.
- Make sure to let the potatoes cool slightly before smashing them to prevent burns.
- Be generous with the seasoning mixture; under-seasoned potatoes can be bland.
- Don’t skip the roasting step; it’s crucial for achieving that crispy texture.
Best Ways to Store
If you find yourself with leftover smashed red potatoes (which is unlikely!), here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerate: Place the cooled potatoes in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy.
- Freeze: While it’s best to enjoy them fresh, you can freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Quick Q&A
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While baby red potatoes work wonderfully, you can also use Yukon gold or fingerling potatoes for a different flavor and texture.
Can I make these smashed potatoes ahead of time?
You can prepare the potatoes by boiling and smashing them ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to roast them!
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
No worries! You can substitute with a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme to achieve a similar flavor profile.
Can I add vegetables to the smashed potatoes?
Yes! Feel free to mix in roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even sautéed spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Ready to Cook?
Now that you have all the details for making this delightful Smashed Red Potatoes Recipe, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! These potatoes are sure to become a family favorite and a staple at your dinner table. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Smashed Red Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Boil the Potatoes - Place the baby red potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
- Step 2: Preheat the Oven - Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Step 3: Drain and Smash - Drain the potatoes, place on a baking sheet, and smash each potato to about half an inch thick.
- Step 4: Seasoning Mixture - Whisk together melted butter, olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Step 5: Drizzle and Roast - Drizzle the seasoning over the smashed potatoes and roast for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Step 6: Garnish and Serve - Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- For extra flavor, try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.
- Grate some Parmesan cheese on top for added richness.
- Use a mix of different potatoes for varied flavor and texture.
