Smashed potatoes are like the life of the party in the potato world. Imagine golden-brown potato pillows that are crispy on the outside but soft and fluffy on the inside. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water. When you bite into them, they burst with rich buttery goodness and a delightful hint of cheese that dances on your taste buds.
I remember the first time I made these heavenly bites at a family gathering. Let’s just say people were fighting over the last few pieces like it was a game of musical chairs but with mashed potatoes. Ever since then, my family insists I bring these to every potluck or holiday dinner. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a Tuesday night meal, these smashed potatoes steal the show every time.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These smashed potatoes are super easy to prepare; you’ll have them ready in no time
- Their crispy texture and cheesy flavor make them an irresistible side dish for any meal
- Visually stunning with their rustic charm, they’re sure to impress guests or family alike
- Perfect as a side or main event at dinner!
The first time I served these crispy delights at a dinner party, my friends couldn’t stop raving about them!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Russet Potatoes: These starchy beauties are perfect for achieving that fluffy interior and crispy exterior.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle adds flavor and helps create that beautiful golden crust.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing all those delicious flavors; don’t skip it!
- Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper gives a subtle kick to each bite.
- Garlic Powder: A secret weapon for adding depth of flavor without overpowering.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheese adds gooeyness that makes each potato utterly irresistible.
- Fresh Herbs (like parsley): A sprinkle on top brings freshness and color to your finished dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Boil Those Potatoes: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add cubed russet potatoes and cook until fork-tender; this usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
Drain & Dry: Carefully drain the cooked potatoes using a colander and let them dry for about five minutes. This step ensures they get super crispy later on.
Smashed Goodness Time: Place the dried potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use a potato masher or the bottom of a glass to gently smash each potato until flattened but still intact.
Add Flavor & Texture: Drizzle olive oil over your smashed potatoes and season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Feel free to get creative here—more seasoning means more flavor!
Bake Until Golden Brown: Bake in a preheated oven at 450°F (232°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until they turn beautifully golden brown and crispy.
Add Cheese & Broil: Remove from oven and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each potato. Return them to the oven under the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes until bubbly and melted.
With every bite of these smashed potatoes, you’re taking part in a culinary adventure filled with rich flavors that will leave you craving more! Enjoy them alongside your favorite main dishes or just gobble them up as an irresistible snack!
You Must Know
- Smashed potatoes are not just a side dish; they’re a party on your plate
- The buttery goodness, crispy edges, and cheesy top will make everyone ask for more
- Perfect for any occasion and incredibly easy to prepare with minimal fuss
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the potatoes until tender, then smash them gently before baking to achieve that crispy exterior.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with toppings like crispy bacon, fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of garlic powder for extra flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for optimal crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly crispy smashed potatoes, use starchy varieties like Russets or Yukon Golds
- Don’t skip on the salt during boiling; it enhances flavor immensely
- Always let them cool slightly before smashing to avoid burns and improve texture
It was during a family gathering when I first introduced these smashed potatoes. The way my aunt’s eyes lit up as she took her first bite made me realize I had struck potato gold!
FAQ
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds for optimal crispiness and flavor.
Can I make smashed potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare them up to a day ahead and reheat in the oven for best results.
How can I make them spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños before baking for an exciting kick!
Crispy, Buttery, & Cheesy Smashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Crispy, buttery, and cheesy smashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food that will elevate any meal. This easy recipe promises a delightful burst of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Russet potatoes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add cubed russet potatoes and cook until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes).
- Drain the potatoes using a colander and let them dry for 5 minutes to ensure crispiness.
- Place the dried potatoes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Gently smash each potato until flattened but intact.
- Drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes and generously sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 450°F (232°C) for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven, sprinkle cheddar cheese on top, and return under the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 potato (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Experiment with toppings like crispy bacon bits or fresh herbs for added flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat in the oven for optimal crispiness.