There's something undeniably satisfying about a plate of crispy, golden Smashed Garlic Potatoes. When I first stumbled upon this delightful twist on traditional potatoes, I knew I had found a new family favorite. These beauties not only pack a garlicky punch, but they are also incredibly quick to prepare, making them a perfect weeknight side dish or a scrumptious addition to your weekend gatherings. With only a handful of ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how easily they transform into a comforting yet impressive offering. Plus, the satisfaction of smashing those little potatoes adds a fun touch to the cooking experience! Curious about how to get that perfect crispy edge while keeping them fluffy on the inside? Let’s dive into the details!
Why Are These Potatoes So Irresistible?
Simplicity Meets Enjoyment: With just a few everyday ingredients, you can create a gourmet-inspired side dish that’s simple enough for any home cook.
Garlicky Goodness: The infusion of fresh garlic takes these smashed potatoes to a new flavor level, making them utterly irresistible.
Crispy Perfection: Roasting creates a delightful crunch on the outside while keeping the insides soft and fluffy, offering the perfect texture combination.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, these potatoes are a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Pair them with any main dish, and watch as they disappear from the table! Your family and friends will be begging for seconds.
Smashed Garlic Potatoes Ingredients
For the Potatoes
• Baby potatoes – 1 ½ lbs of Yukon gold or red potatoes yield the best texture and taste.
• Salt – ½ teaspoon to enhance the natural flavor of the potatoes during boiling.
For the Garlic Mixture
• Olive oil – 1 ½ tablespoon provides a lovely richness and helps achieve that golden crust.
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced for that robust garlicky goodness that elevates the flavor of the smashed garlic potatoes.
• Black pepper – ½ teaspoon adds a mild heat and depth to the overall taste.
For Garnishing
• Fresh parsley – 1 tbsp, chopped, adds a pop of color and freshness to the final dish.
• Paprika or Parmesan – Optional pinch of paprika or grated Parmesan can take these potatoes to the next level with extra flavor.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Smashed Garlic Potatoes
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Start by placing the baby potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold salted water. Bring the pot to a rolling boil over medium-high heat and let the potatoes cook for about 15–18 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Once cooked, drain the potatoes and set them aside to cool slightly before handling.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
While the potatoes are cooling, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly spraying it with cooking spray. This ensures that the smashed garlic potatoes crisp beautifully without sticking.
Step 3: Smash the Potatoes
Transfer the boiled baby potatoes to the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them. Using the bottom of a glass or a potato masher, gently press down on each potato until they flatten to about ½ inch thick. This smashing technique will allow for maximum crispiness when baked.
Step 4: Add Garlic & Oil
In a small mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are fully blended. Brush this garlicky mixture generously over each smashed potato, ensuring they’re all coated for that irresistible flavor.
Step 5: Roast Until Crispy
Now, place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and roast the smashed garlic potatoes for about 20–25 minutes. Keep an eye on them and look for golden brown edges and a crispy appearance—this is when they’re at their best!
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Once the potatoes are crispy and golden, remove them from the oven. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and flavor. If desired, add a pinch of paprika or grated Parmesan for an extra touch. Serve the hot smashed garlic potatoes immediately and watch them disappear!
Smashed Garlic Potatoes Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine while preparing these delightful potatoes!
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Dairy-Free: Swap out the butter for coconut oil to keep it vegan while adding a touch of tropical flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the garlic oil mixture for a delectable, fiery twist your taste buds will love.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh rosemary or thyme with the olive oil and garlic for an aromatic enhancement that’s simply irresistible.
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Cheesy Delight: Instead of just Parmesan, use sharp cheddar cheese on top before roasting for a cheesy, crusty topping that will make everyone swoon.
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Creamy Base: Before smashing, mix a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt into the potatoes for added creaminess and flavor.
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Crispy Topping: For a delightful crunch, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top of the potatoes before roasting.
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Lemon Zest: Brighten things up with a hint of lemon zest mixed into the garlic oil, offering a refreshing twist that complements the earthy flavors.
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Vegan Cheese: Top with your favorite vegan cheese alternative just before serving for a rich, dairy-free experience that everyone can enjoy.
Make Ahead Options
These Smashed Garlic Potatoes are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can boil and smash the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance. After boiling, let them cool completely, then cover and refrigerate them. The garlic oil mixture can also be prepared a day ahead, just be sure to store it in an airtight container to keep the flavors fresh. When you're ready to serve, preheat your oven, brush the garlic oil over the smashed potatoes, and roast them for about 20–25 minutes until crispy. This way, you’ll have delicious, golden Smashed Garlic Potatoes with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
What to Serve with Smashed Garlic Potatoes
Elevate your meal to unforgettable heights with delicious pairings that beautifully complement crispy, golden smashed garlic potatoes.
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy and smoky, grilled chicken complements the potatoes' crunch, creating a satisfying plate everyone will love.
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Roasted Veggies: Colorful roasted vegetables add vibrant flavors and textures that enhance the richness of the garlic potatoes. Think sweet bell peppers and caramelized Brussels sprouts, creating a stunning seasonal harmony.
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Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette contrasts the savory smash, providing balance and refreshing crunch.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The creamy crunch of coleslaw offers a delightful creaminess that pairs beautifully with the garlic's boldness, enhancing the overall experience.
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Eggs Any Style: Serve with sunny-side-up eggs for a comforting breakfast twist! The runny yolk adds richness that the garlic potatoes soak up beautifully.
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Steak: A perfectly seared steak brings a hearty, meaty element that balances the lightness of the potatoes while enhancing the overall meal experience.
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Herb-Infused Rice: Fluffy rice with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme serves as a lovely base that complements the potatoes’ textures without overpowering them.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay brings a hint of acidity, cutting through the richness of the garlic potatoes while enhancing their flavors.
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Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with a rich chocolate mousse! The light, airy texture is a delightful contrast to the crispy potatoes.
Expert Tips for Smashed Garlic Potatoes
• Choose the Right Potatoes: Use Yukon gold or red baby potatoes for the best texture and flavor in your smashed garlic potatoes.
• Don’t Overboil: Keep an eye on the boiling time; overcooked potatoes can become too soft and hard to smash. Aim for fork-tender.
• Smash with Care: Apply gentle pressure when smashing to ensure the insides stay fluffy while the edges crisp up beautifully.
• Even Coating: Be generous when brushing the garlic and olive oil mixture on the potatoes for maximum flavor and crispy results.
• Watch Them Roast: Ovens can vary, so check the potatoes a few minutes before the cooking time is up to avoid burning those perfect edges.
Storage Tips for Smashed Garlic Potatoes
Room Temperature: Consume your smashed garlic potatoes within 2 hours after cooking to ensure freshness and food safety.
Fridge: Store leftover smashed garlic potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag, and enjoy within 1 month.
Reheating: Reheat frozen smashed garlic potatoes in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25–30 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Smashed Garlic Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using baby Yukon gold or red potatoes. They hold their shape well and become wonderfully crispy when smashed and roasted.
How should I store leftover Smashed Garlic Potatoes?
Very! If you have any leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, I suggest reheating in the oven to restore their crispy edges.
Can I freeze Smashed Garlic Potatoes?
Yes indeed! To freeze, allow the potatoes to cool completely after cooking. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll keep for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to eat, reheat them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes until heated through and crispy.
What should I do if my potatoes are too soft to smash?
The more the merrier! If you find your potatoes are too soft, it could be due to overboiling. Aim to boil them just until they're fork-tender, about 15–18 minutes. Next time, keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure they have the perfect texture for smashing!
Are these potatoes suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This recipe is quite versatile. If you have someone who is lactose intolerant or vegan, you can easily skip the Parmesan and still have a delicious side dish. Just be mindful of any allergies to garlic or potatoes when serving!
Irresistibly Crispy Smashed Garlic Potatoes You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place baby potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15–18 minutes until fork-tender.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or cooking spray.
- Transfer boiled potatoes to the baking sheet and gently smash each potato until about ½ inch thick.
- Combine olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Brush the mixture over each smashed potato.
- Roast the smashed potatoes in the oven for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Sprinkle with parsley and optionally add paprika or Parmesan before serving.
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