Crispy Smashed Baked Potatoes Recipe

There is nothing quite like the irresistible charm of Crispy Smashed Baked Potatoes to elevate any meal. These golden nuggets of buttery, salty goodness combine a luscious fluffy interior with a satisfyingly crunchy exterior, creating a perfect balance that’s simple to make yet thoroughly impressive. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish or a cozy snack, this recipe is an absolute game changer that’s sure to become your go-to comfort food.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these delightful Crispy Smashed Baked Potatoes, you don’t need a pantry full of fancy ingredients. Each component plays a key role — from the mild earthiness of the potatoes to the fragrant garlic and onion powders that bring a subtle layer of flavor. Olive oil helps achieve that coveted crispiness while fresh parsley adds a refreshing touch of color.

• Small potatoes (2.2 lbs / 1 kg): The foundation of the dish, small starchy or waxy potatoes both work beautifully for different textures inside.
• Olive oil (4 tbsp): Vital for crisping and roasting, it also adds a silky richness.
• Garlic powder (1 tsp): Adds a warm, savory aroma that complements the potatoes perfectly.
• Onion powder (1 tsp): Provides a subtle depth and gentle sweetness.
• Fresh parsley (chopped): Sprinkled on top for a pop of freshness and bright green color.
• Sea salt: Enhances all the flavors with the perfect salty finish.

How to Make Crispy Smashed Baked Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Trays

Start by preheating your oven to 200°C fan forced (or 220°C if you don’t have a fan). Cover two half-sheet baking trays with olive oil, spreading it evenly to create a slick surface that will help the potatoes develop a beautiful crispy crust as they bake.

Step 2: Clean and Boil Your Potatoes

Make sure all your potatoes are clean—if needed, give them a quick scrub with a kitchen brush to remove any lingering dirt. Place them in a large pot, cover with water by about an inch, and put a lid on. Bring the pot to a boil and simmer the potatoes for 10 to 15 minutes depending on their size. You’ll want to test their tenderness by poking with a knife; it should slide through with gentle resistance, signaling they are perfectly cooked but still firm enough to handle.

Step 3: Smash the Spuds

Drain the potatoes carefully and transfer them to your prepared oiled trays. Use the back of a fork or a potato masher to gently press down on each potato until it flattens out just slightly — the goal is to “smash” them without smashing them to bits. Let them cool for about five minutes; this helps keep their shape while allowing the seasonings to cling better.

Step 4: Season and Oil

Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, and a generous pinch of sea salt evenly over the smashed potatoes. Drizzle more olive oil on top—about 2 to 3 tablespoons per tray—to ensure they crisp up wonderfully as they bake. This seasoning stage is key for layering those delicious flavors inside and out.

Step 5: Bake Twice for Crunchy Perfection

Bake the potatoes in the hot oven for 20 minutes, then carefully flip each one over with a spatula to crisp the other side. Continue baking for another 20 to 30 minutes or until they reach a deep golden brown and irresistible crispiness. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid burning and enjoy watching them transform into the ultimate crispy snack.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the potatoes for that lovely burst of green and a hint of fresh flavor. Serve immediately to enjoy them at their crispiest and most flavorful.

How to Serve Crispy Smashed Baked Potatoes

Garnishes

These Crispy Smashed Baked Potatoes are fantastic on their own but become truly extraordinary when dressed up with a few garnishes. Think freshly chopped parsley, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for a nutty twist, or even a dash of smoked paprika for a little kick. A dollop of sour cream or a swirl of garlic aioli also pairs beautifully and adds a creamy contrast.

Side Dishes

They make the perfect sidekick to just about any main dish. Serve alongside juicy burgers for a classic combo, or pair with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a vibrant salad for a lighter meal. Their versatility means they can complement both simple weeknight dinners and more elaborate weekend feasts.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress guests? Arrange the Crispy Smashed Baked Potatoes on a rustic wooden board, sprinkled with chopped herbs, and place small bowls of various dips (ranch dressing, spicy ketchup, or pesto) around. For an elegant touch, stack them slightly overlapping on a platter and drizzle with truffle oil or balsamic reduction. The crispy edges catch the eye and invite eager hands to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Crispy Smashed Baked Potatoes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep fresh and tasty for up to three days, making them a fantastic option for quick snacks or reheated sides.

Freezing

To enjoy them later, freeze the potatoes after cooling by laying them in a single layer on a baking tray. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to two months in the freezer. This method prevents them from sticking together and helps maintain their texture on reheating.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat your Crispy Smashed Baked Potatoes in the oven. Place them on a baking tray and warm at 180°C for about 10 to 15 minutes until hot and the edges regain their crispness. Avoid the microwave if you want to retain that delightful crunch.

FAQs

What type of potatoes work best for Crispy Smashed Baked Potatoes?

Small starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal because they have a fluffy inside and crisp up nicely. However, waxy potatoes also work if you prefer a smoother texture inside. You can experiment depending on your preference.

Can I use larger potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, larger potatoes will work but the texture will be different. Larger ones tend to have a fluffier interior, while smaller potatoes get crispier. Just adjust cooking times slightly if needed.

Is it necessary to boil the potatoes before smashing?

Boiling is key to cooking the potatoes through so they become tender inside. It also helps achieve the perfect texture after baking because the smashed potatoes crisp on the outside while remaining soft inside.

Can I make these potatoes gluten-free or vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan as it uses just potatoes, olive oil, and seasonings. Just be mindful of any garnishes or dips you add.

How do I get the potatoes extra crispy?

Generously coating the trays and potatoes with olive oil and baking at a high temperature are essential steps. Flipping the potatoes halfway through baking ensures both sides get those crispy, golden edges everyone loves.

Final Thoughts

Trying out this Crispy Smashed Baked Potatoes recipe is a guaranteed way to bring smiles to your dinner table and satisfy that craving for something crispy, comforting, and utterly delicious. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s an easy recipe that delivers big flavor every time. Go ahead and make a batch to enjoy the magic of crunchy, buttery potatoes that feel like a warm hug from the inside out!