Do you crave a side dish that's both crispy and packed with flavor? Look no further! In this article, I'll show you how to make Crispy Garlic Smashed Potatoes, a simple recipe that will impress your family and friends. With just a few ingredients like baby potatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs, you can whip up a delicious treat ready for any meal. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that will transform your potato game!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Crispy: The combination of high heat and smashing the potatoes creates a perfectly crispy exterior, giving each bite an incredible crunch.
- Flavorful Garlic Infusion: The minced garlic and fresh herbs infuse the potatoes with mouthwatering flavors that elevate this simple dish.
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and effort, making it a go-to side dish for any meal.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the seasonings and toppings to match your taste preferences, whether you prefer more heat or additional herbs.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- Baby potatoes (1.5 lbs)
- Olive oil (4 tablespoons)
- Garlic (6 cloves, minced)
- Fresh herbs (rosemary & thyme)
- Seasonings (sea salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes)
- Garnish (fresh parsley, chopped)
When making crispy garlic smashed potatoes, you want to keep it simple and fresh. I always choose baby potatoes for their tender skin and creamy texture. They are small and cook evenly. For this recipe, you need 1.5 pounds of baby potatoes.
Next, you need olive oil. Four tablespoons of olive oil add rich flavor and help with crispiness. Garlic is a key ingredient. Using six cloves of minced garlic gives the potatoes that strong, savory taste.
Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme bring a nice aroma. A teaspoon of each will elevate the dish. Don't forget the seasonings! You will need sea salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
Lastly, fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness as a garnish. It makes the potatoes look great on the plate. Gather these ingredients, and you are ready to create a delicious side dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Potatoes
- First, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). This step helps the potatoes get crispy.
- Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the baby potatoes and cook for 15-20 minutes. They should be fork-tender by then.
Smashed Potatoes Technique
- After boiling, drain the potatoes and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Once cool, place the potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Use the bottom of a glass or a potato masher to gently smash each potato. You want them flattened but not broken apart.
Flavoring and Baking
- In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, olive oil, fresh rosemary, fresh thyme, sea salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like some heat.
- Drizzle this garlic herb oil over the smashed potatoes. Make sure each potato gets a good coating.
- Now, bake the potatoes for about 25-30 minutes. They should turn crispy and golden brown around the edges.
- After baking, let them cool for a minute before you garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Maximum Crispiness
To get the best crispiness, set your oven to 450°F (230°C). This high heat helps the edges turn golden and crunchy. After boiling the baby potatoes, let them cool slightly. When you smash them, aim for a flat shape but keep them whole. Use the bottom of a glass or a potato masher. This way, more surface area gets crispy.
Enhancing Flavor
To add more flavor, try using fresh herbs like basil or dill. A sprinkle of garlic powder can boost the taste too. You can swap olive oil for avocado oil for a different twist. Feel free to add spices like smoked paprika for extra depth. These small changes can make your smashed potatoes pop!
Serving Suggestions
For serving, place the crispy garlic smashed potatoes on a large platter. Drizzle any extra garlic herb oil over the top. This adds flavor and looks nice. Garnish with chopped parsley for a bright touch. Pair these potatoes with grilled chicken or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Pro Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Baby potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their creamy texture and ability to hold their shape when smashed.
- Make Them Extra Crispy: For an even crispier finish, broil the potatoes for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
- Customize Your Herbs: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like oregano or basil for a different flavor profile that suits your taste preferences.
- Serve with Dipping Sauces: Enhance your dining experience by offering a selection of dipping sauces, such as aioli or ranch, to complement the crispy potatoes.
Variations
Different Potato Types
You can use many types of potatoes for this dish. Yukon Gold potatoes have a creamy texture and a buttery taste. Red potatoes are waxy and hold their shape well. Both types work great for crispy garlic smashed potatoes. You can even mix them for a colorful dish!
Flavor Variations
Adding cheese gives these potatoes a rich flavor. Parmesan adds a nutty taste, while cheddar makes it creamy. For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce. You can also mix in smoked paprika for a smoky twist. The options are endless!
Dietary Modifications
If you want a vegan version, use avocado oil instead of olive oil. This change keeps the taste delicious while making it plant-based. For gluten-free needs, this recipe is already gluten-free. Just ensure any added flavors, like sauces, are gluten-free too. Enjoy the flavors without worry!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
To keep your crispy garlic smashed potatoes fresh, store them in an airtight container. This will help lock in moisture and prevent them from drying out. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. If you notice any signs of spoilage, it's best to toss them out.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze cooked smashed potatoes if you want to save some for later. Allow them to cool completely before freezing. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for a few hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They stay good for up to three months.
To thaw, place the frozen potatoes in the fridge overnight. For quick thawing, you can use the microwave.
Reheating Techniques
Reheating smashed potatoes without losing crispiness is key. The best method is using the oven. Preheat it to 400°F (200°C), then place the potatoes on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes until they are hot and crispy again.
If you're short on time, you can use the microwave. Heat on high for one minute, then check. This method won't keep them as crispy, but it works in a pinch.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, you can use other types of potatoes. For crispy garlic smashed potatoes, I recommend:
- Yukon Gold potatoes
- Red potatoes
These potatoes also have a nice flavor and texture. They hold up well when smashed.
What is the best way to store leftover smashed potatoes?
To store leftover smashed potatoes, follow these tips:
- Let them cool to room temperature first.
- Place them in an airtight container.
- Store in the fridge for up to three days.
When you're ready to eat, reheat them carefully to keep them tasty.
How do I make them extra crispy?
To achieve extra crispiness, try these tips:
- Use a high oven temperature, like 450°F (230°C).
- Smash the potatoes flat so they have more surface area.
- Drizzle enough olive oil to coat them well.
- Flip them halfway through baking for even browning.
These steps will give you that perfect crunch every time!
This blog post shared a simple recipe for smashed baby potatoes. You learned the ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for crispy results. We also covered variations to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Remember, experimenting with flavors and types of potatoes can lead to delicious new dishes. Store leftovers properly to enjoy them later. Follow these guidelines, and you will create tasty smashed potatoes every time. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
