Perfectly Smashed Red Potatoes
Who doesn’t love a perfectly smashed red potato? These irresistible spuds are a perennial favorite, offering a delightful contrast of crispy edges and fluffy, creamy centers. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, topping them with your favorite fixings, or even enjoying them as a main course, smashed red potatoes are the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
What makes these potatoes so special? It’s all in the technique – a few simple steps transform ordinary red potatoes into an extraordinary culinary experience. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-master recipe that’s sure to become a new staple in your kitchen.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
These smashed red potatoes are a game-changer for a few key reasons. First, the texture is simply unbeatable – the outside becomes delightfully crispy, while the interior remains soft and creamy. It’s a sensory delight that will have you coming back for more.
Another reason to love this recipe is its accessibility. Red potatoes are a kitchen staple, and the other ingredients are likely already in your pantry or fridge. This means you can whip up a batch of these tasty potatoes at a moment’s notice, without having to plan an elaborate grocery trip.
But the best part? These smashed red potatoes are incredibly versatile. You can serve them as a side dish, use them as a base for loaded baked potatoes, or even enjoy them as a light main course. Plus, they reheat beautifully, making them a great make-ahead option for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Smashed Red Potatoes ❓
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley (optional)
The beauty of this smashed red potatoes recipe is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of creamy red potatoes, savory olive oil, and aromatic garlic creates a flavor profile that has made potato-based recipes perennially popular.
📝 How to Make Smashed Red Potatoes Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: Place the cut red potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
• Step 3: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Use a potato masher or the back of a fork to gently smash each potato, flattening them to about 1/2-inch thickness.
• Step 4: Drizzle the smashed potatoes with the olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Gently toss to coat the potatoes evenly.
• Step 5: Arrange the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden brown.
• Step 6: Remove the potatoes from the oven and drizzle with the melted butter. Sprinkle with the minced garlic and chopped parsley (if using). Serve hot and enjoy!
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
• Total time: 45-50 minutes
Compared to traditional baked potatoes, which can take up to an hour to prepare, this smashed red potatoes recipe saves you 15-20 minutes of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 6 servings):
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 339mg
These smashed red potatoes provide approximately 15% of your daily carbohydrate requirements and 12% of your daily fiber needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Replace half the red potatoes with an equal amount of cauliflower florets, then follow the same preparation steps.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Omit the butter and use a plant-based oil, such as avocado or coconut oil, for the drizzle.
• Added protein: Top the baked potatoes with grilled chicken, roasted chickpeas, or crumbled feta cheese for an extra protein boost.
• Boost vegetables: Mix in sautéed spinach, roasted bell peppers, or caramelized onions for added nutritional value and flavor.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 25% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the smashed red potatoes.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair with grilled or roasted meats, such as chicken, steak, or pork chops, for a complete meal.
• Complement the potatoes with a fresh green salad or a hearty vegetable soup for a well-rounded dinner.
• For a brunch or breakfast spread, serve the smashed red potatoes alongside scrambled eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit.
• Create an appetizer platter with the potatoes, topped with crumbled feta, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Oversmashing the potatoes: Be gentle when smashing the potatoes – you want them to be flattened to about 1/2-inch thickness, not completely mashed into a paste.
• Undercooking the potatoes: Make sure to cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender before smashing and baking them. Undercooked potatoes will not achieve the desired creamy interior.
• Skipping the butter drizzle: The melted butter adds a lovely richness and helps to crisp up the edges of the potatoes. Don’t skip this step for the full flavor experience.
• Not seasoning properly: Be sure to generously season the potatoes with salt and pepper. The right amount of seasoning is crucial for bringing out the natural flavors.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These smashed red potatoes retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the potatoes up to the smashing step, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the potatoes to an airtight container or resealable bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Freezing baked: Allow the baked potatoes to cool completely, then wrap them individually in foil or place them in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, unwrap the potatoes and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat the potatoes in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until hot and crispy. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but the texture may not be as crisp.
❓ FAQs
Can I make the smashed red potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the potatoes up to the smashing step, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the potatoes to an airtight container or resealable bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, bake the frozen potatoes directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I substitute other types of potatoes?
While red potatoes work best for this recipe, you can also use Yukon Gold or russet potatoes. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly, and the texture may be a bit different. Yukon Golds will be a bit creamier, while russets will be fluffier. Feel free to experiment to find your preferred potato variety.
Are these smashed red potatoes suitable for a low-carb diet?
To make this recipe more low-carb friendly, you can replace half the red potatoes with an equal amount of cauliflower florets. This will significantly reduce the carbohydrate content without compromising the overall flavor and texture. You can also try using a dairy-free butter substitute or avocado oil instead of the regular butter.
What if my potatoes don’t get crispy enough?
If your smashed red potatoes aren’t achieving the desired crispy edges, there are a few things you can try. First, make sure to spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet, as overcrowding can prevent proper crisping. You can also try increasing the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) and baking for an additional 5-10 minutes. Additionally, ensure that you’re using a hot oven and not opening the door too frequently during baking.
Can I add any additional toppings or variations?
Absolutely! The beauty of this smashed red potatoes recipe is its versatility. You can top the baked potatoes with shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped scallions, or even a dollop of sour cream. For a spicy twist, try sprinkling on some chili powder or paprika. You can also mix in sautéed spinach, roasted bell peppers, or caramelized onions for added flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
These smashed red potatoes represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a comforting side dish or the star of the show, they’re sure to impress with their crispy edges and creamy interiors. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these smashed potatoes demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the smashing and baking process. So, what are you waiting for? Grab some red potatoes and get ready to experience the ultimate in potato perfection!
Print
Perfectly Smashed Red Potatoes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Ingredients
• 2 pounds red potatoes, washed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
• Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
• Step 2: Place the cut red potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
• Step 3: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Use a potato masher or the back of a fork to gently smash each potato, flattening them to about 1/2-inch thickness.
• Step 4: Drizzle the smashed potatoes with the olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Gently toss to coat the potatoes evenly.
• Step 5: Arrange the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden brown.
• Step 6: Remove the potatoes from the oven and drizzle with the melted butter. Sprinkle with the minced garlic and chopped parsley (if using). Serve hot and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Cuisine: Americans
Keywords: Perfectly Smashed Red Potatoes
