Crispy Smashed Potatoes: The Ultimate Guide to Perfectly Golden & Delicious Every Time

These Crispy Smashed Potatoes are an absolute joy to prepare and even more delightful to eat! While classic roasted potatoes always hit the spot, smashed potatoes elevate the experience by introducing an incredible textural contrast. Imagine a creamy, buttery interior perfectly complemented by unbelievably crispy, golden-brown edges. Trust us, one bite and you’ll be completely hooked!

When you’re searching for a reliable and universally loved dinner staple, potatoes are always a stellar choice. They are affordable, readily available, and a crowd-pleaser for all ages. In fact, the average person consumes a significant amount of potatoes annually, highlighting their popularity. With such an abundance of potato varieties and cooking methods, sometimes a fresh approach is needed to rekindle culinary excitement. This is where our ultimate Crispy Smashed Potato recipe shines, offering a simple yet revolutionary way to enjoy this humble root vegetable.

The journey to these crispy delights begins with a familiar step: boiling. However, the magic truly unfolds when these tender spuds are gently (or enthusiastically, if you need to release some stress!) crushed flat. This smashing technique dramatically increases the surface area, creating countless nooks and crannies that, once baked, transform into an irresistible golden crust. This transformation allows them to become the perfect blank canvas, ready to be adorned with a symphony of seasonings or simply enjoyed in their pure, flavorful form.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with These Crispy Smashed Potatoes

The timeless appeal of potatoes is evident to anyone who has savored their golden, earthy, and often buttery goodness. However, smashed potatoes carve out their own special niche, surpassing many other potato preparations for several compelling reasons:

• Effortlessly Simple: Forget complicated culinary techniques. This recipe requires absolutely no prior cooking expertise, making it ideal for beginners and seasoned chefs alike. You can effortlessly whip up this rave-worthy dish and impress everyone with your apparent professional kitchen skills, even if you’re a complete novice. The straightforward steps ensure consistent success every time.
• Minimalist Ingredients: At its core, this recipe relies on just three fundamental ingredients. If you have potatoes on hand, you’re already halfway there! The other essential components—salt and a good quality oil—are typically pantry staples found in any well-stocked kitchen. This simplicity doesn’t compromise on flavor; instead, it highlights the natural deliciousness of the potato.
• Engaging for the Whole Family: Not only will children eagerly anticipate seeing crispy smashed potatoes on the dinner table, but they’ll also delight in assisting with the smashing process! This interactive step is a fantastic way to involve everyone in the kitchen, fostering a love for cooking and creating cherished family memories. It’s a dish that brings smiles to faces before it even reaches the plate.
• Unbeatable Texture: This is arguably the biggest selling point. Unlike uniform roasted potatoes, smashed potatoes offer a dynamic eating experience. The interior remains wonderfully soft and fluffy, while the exterior crisps up beautifully, delivering that satisfying crunch with every bite. It’s a culinary triumph that plays on contrasts.
• Incredibly Versatile: Smashed potatoes are a chameleon in the culinary world. They can be a hearty side dish, a light meal, or even an impressive appetizer. Their neutral yet robust flavor profile makes them suitable for pairing with virtually any main course or transforming with an array of exciting toppings.

Essential Notes on Ingredients

For precise measurements and detailed instructions, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card located further down the page. This section provides important insights into the selection and role of each ingredient.

• Baby Potatoes: Also frequently referred to as “new potatoes,” these small wonders typically measure around 1 ½ to 2 inches in length. They are characterized by their incredibly thin, delicate skins and a wonderfully soft, moist flesh that cooks beautifully. Their compact size and robust structure ensure they maintain their shape exceptionally well throughout the cooking process, making them the perfect candidate for smashing. Baby potatoes come in a delightful array of varieties and colors, including vibrant golds, rich reds, and even intriguing blues or purples. Rest assured, any of these will yield fantastic results in this recipe, offering slight variations in flavor and visual appeal. If baby potatoes are unavailable, you can use larger potatoes (like Yukon Golds or Russets) cut into 1.5-2 inch chunks, ensuring they are all roughly the same size for even cooking.
• Salt: For optimal flavor development and perfect seasoning, this recipe calls for two distinct types of salt. You’ll need a generous tablespoon of good quality sea salt for boiling the potatoes. This initial seasoning step infuses the potatoes with flavor from the inside out, making them delicious even before baking. For finishing, a delicate sprinkling of flaky sea salt is recommended. Its coarse texture and superior crunch provide a burst of salinity and an elegant finish that truly elevates the dish.
• Olive Oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil is key to achieving that coveted crispy texture and imparting a rich, aromatic flavor. The olive oil not only helps the potatoes crisp up beautifully in the oven but also adds a Mediterranean-inspired depth that complements their earthy taste. Don’t be shy with the oil – it’s crucial for the golden-brown crust and ensures the seasoning adheres properly. You can also experiment with avocado oil for a neutral flavor or melted vegan butter for an even richer profile.
• Optional Pesto or Shredded Vegan Cheese: While these potatoes are magnificent on their own, a touch of a flavorful topping can elevate them even further. A vibrant basil pesto adds a fresh, herbaceous kick, while a sprinkle of melty shredded vegan cheese provides a comforting, savory indulgence. These optional additions allow for customization, letting you tailor the dish to your personal preferences or dietary needs.

Crafting Your Crispy Smashed Potatoes: Step-by-Step

Achieving perfectly crispy smashed potatoes is a straightforward process that yields incredibly rewarding results. Follow these simple steps for a guaranteed delicious outcome:

• Boil the Potatoes: Begin by filling a large pot with water and bringing it to a rolling boil. Add about a tablespoon of sea salt to the water – this seasons the potatoes from the inside out, which is vital for flavor. Carefully add your baby potatoes (skins on) to the boiling water. Reduce the heat slightly to maintain a gentle boil and cook for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork but still hold their shape. They should be tender, but not mushy. Once tender, remove the potatoes from the pot and drain them thoroughly in a colander, shaking gently to remove excess moisture. This ensures they’re dry enough to crisp up in the oven.
• Preheat Your Oven: While the potatoes are draining, preheat your oven to a high temperature of 450°F (230°C). A hot oven is essential for achieving that desirable golden crispness quickly.

• Smash and Season: Line a large baking sheet with greased parchment paper. Arrange the boiled potatoes on the prepared sheet, ensuring they have enough space between them (do not overcrowd the pan, as this will steam instead of crisp them). Using the flat bottom of a sturdy glass, a potato masher, or even the back of a large spoon, firmly press down on each potato until it flattens to about ½ inch thick, creating ragged, exposed edges. Drizzle generously with olive oil over all the smashed potatoes, ensuring they are well-coated on both sides. Then, sprinkle liberally with flaky sea salt. You want to make sure every potato is thoroughly covered to maximize crispiness and flavor.

• Bake to Perfection: Transfer the baking sheet to your preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are gloriously golden brown and exceptionally crispy. For extra crispiness, especially on both sides, consider flipping the potatoes halfway through the baking time. Keep a close eye on them during the final minutes to prevent burning. Once baked, remove from the oven and serve immediately. Top with your choice of fresh pesto, a sprinkle of shredded vegan cheese, or a final flourish of flaky sea salt. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and rich flavor!

Expert Tips for Smashed Potato Success

The beauty of Crispy Smashed Potatoes lies in their forgiving nature; it’s genuinely hard to go wrong with this recipe. However, to achieve truly spectacular results every single time, here are some invaluable tips that will elevate your potato game:

• Size Matters for Even Cooking: When selecting your baby potatoes, aim for ones that are roughly uniform in size. This crucial step ensures that all the potatoes cook evenly, both during the boiling and baking phases. If some potatoes are significantly larger, they may require more cooking time, potentially leading to overcooked smaller potatoes or undercooked larger ones. Consistency is key for a perfectly uniform batch.
• Boil Until Just Fork Tender: The sweet spot for boiling potatoes for smashing is “just fork tender.” This means a fork should easily slide into the potato without resistance, but the potato should still feel firm enough to hold its shape. Overcooking will result in mushy potatoes that disintegrate when you try to smash them, while undercooked potatoes will be too firm to flatten properly and won’t develop that creamy interior.
• Don’t Be Shy with the Olive Oil: The generous application of olive oil is non-negotiable for achieving that coveted crispy texture and imparting a rich, irresistible flavor. Olive oil acts as a conductor of heat, promoting browning and creating that beautiful, crunchy crust. It also helps the salt and any other seasonings adhere to the potato surface. Think of it as painting a delicious, crispy layer onto each spud.
• Utilize a Dark-Colored Sheet Pan: The material and color of your baking sheet can significantly impact the crispiness of your potatoes. Dark-colored sheet pans absorb and retain heat more effectively than lighter ones, which helps encourage deeper browning and a superior crisp. If you only have a light-colored pan, it will still work, but you might need to extend the baking time slightly or increase the oven temperature by a small margin.
• Flip for Maximum Crispiness: For a truly all-around crispy experience, make sure to flip the potatoes once halfway through the baking process. This ensures both sides of each smashed potato get direct contact with the hot baking sheet and circulating oven air, leading to even golden-brown perfection and maximum crunch on every surface.
• Dry Them Thoroughly: After boiling, ensure your potatoes are as dry as possible. Excess moisture can lead to steaming rather than crisping in the oven. A quick drain in a colander followed by a gentle pat-down with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel can make a significant difference.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Give your potatoes room to breathe! Arranging them in a single layer on the baking sheet without touching is crucial. If they are too close together, they will release steam, causing them to steam instead of roast, thus preventing them from getting truly crispy. Use two baking sheets if necessary.

Creative Topping Ideas to Elevate Your Smashed Potatoes

As the iconic Nicki Minaj once said, “who wants to look simple when you can look stunning?” While a simple sprinkle of flaky salt on your smashed potatoes is undeniably delicious, why not transform them into a culinary masterpiece with a few tasteful and imaginative toppings? Here are some fantastic ideas to take your crispy smashed potatoes to the next level:

• Aromatic Herbs and Spices: Even a modest sprinkle of smoked paprika can work wonders, infusing the humble spud with a delightful warmth and depth. Explore other fantastic additions such as earthy ground cumin, pungent garlic powder, savory onion powder, fragrant dried rosemary, herbaceous thyme, zesty oregano, or any combination of these! For more delicate fresh herbs like bright parsley, refreshing dill, or aromatic cilantro, it’s best to add them after the potatoes have finished baking to preserve their vibrant color and fresh flavor. Consider a dash of chili flakes for a subtle heat, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for an added cheesy, umami boost without dairy.
• Decadent Vegan Cheese: It’s hard to resist the comforting allure of a cheesy potato, and thankfully, there are numerous incredible plant-based options available today. Vegan cheddar, mozzarella, pepper jack, or Parmesan shreds are excellent choices that melt beautifully, creating a gooey, savory topping. You can sprinkle them on during the last 5-10 minutes of baking to allow them to melt and brown slightly.
• Bright Citrus or Tangy Vinegar: Introduce a delightful touch of brightness and acidity with freshly grated lemon or lime zest, which cuts through the richness of the potato. Alternatively, delve into your pantry for a splash of earthy balsamic glaze, tangy red wine vinegar, or mild rice vinegar. A light drizzle after baking can awaken the flavors and add a sophisticated edge.
• Savory Plant-Based Bacon: Everyone adores the smoky, crispy, and savory taste of bacon. You can effortlessly replicate this irresistible texture and flavor with your own homemade vegan coconut bacon or use store-bought plant-based bacon bits. The salty crunch and umami notes pair exceptionally well with the fluffy interior of smashed potatoes.
• Creamy Dips and Sauces: Transform your smashed potatoes into an appetizer sensation by serving them with a variety of delectable dips. Think creamy vegan ranch dressing, a spicy sriracha aioli, a zesty cilantro-lime crema, or even a classic tangy ketchup. The combination of crispy potato and cool, flavorful dip is simply irresistible.
• Global Flavor Inspirations: Get creative and draw inspiration from cuisines around the world. Top your smashed potatoes with a dollop of spicy romesco sauce, a sprinkle of Japanese furikake, a generous spoonful of chimichurri, or even a vibrant Indian green chutney. The possibilities are endless!

What to Serve With These Incredible Smashed Potatoes

Crispy Smashed Potatoes are quite possibly the most adaptable and versatile side dish you’ll ever encounter. Their balanced flavor and appealing texture make them an ideal pairing for virtually any entrée you can imagine. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy them:

• The French Fry Treatment: Embrace their crispy nature by serving them as you would your favorite fries. Dip them into classic ketchup, a creamy vegan ranch dressing, a zesty aioli, smoky BBQ sauce, sweet and savory maple mustard, or even a fresh and vibrant guacamole. They make for a perfect snack or appetizer this way!
• Sandwich and Burger Companion: Upgrade your usual side of chips or regular fries. Serve these smashed potatoes alongside hearty veggie burgers, delectable sandwiches, or even a gourmet wrap. Their substantial crunch adds a wonderful textural element to any handheld meal.
• Holiday Feast Enhancement: Consider these a sophisticated and incredibly delicious upgrade over traditional mashed potatoes for your Thanksgiving or Christmas spreads. Their unique texture will stand out! Serve them proudly with classic holiday staples like savory stuffing, tart cranberry sauce, and your favorite hearty plant-based roast.
• Breakfast and Brunch Superstar: Move beyond hash browns and start your day with these delightful potatoes instead! Their crispiness makes them an excellent substitute for any morning potato dish. Pair them with your favorite fluffy eggless scramble, sweet and tender waffles, or light and fluffy pancakes for a truly satisfying and flavorful breakfast or brunch experience.
• Weeknight Dinner Side: For an easy weeknight meal, serve them alongside simple baked tofu, a fresh green salad, or your favorite steamed vegetables. They add flavor and satisfaction without much effort.
• Appetizer Platter: Cut larger smashed potatoes into smaller pieces and arrange them on an appetizer platter with various dipping sauces for an impressive and crowd-pleasing party snack.

Storing and Reheating Your Leftover Smashed Potatoes

While these crispy smashed potatoes are undeniably best enjoyed fresh from the oven, you can absolutely save any delicious leftovers for another meal. Proper storage and reheating will ensure they remain flavorful, even if a little less crispy than their initial state.

Store any leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 to 7 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, there are a couple of reheating options. For a quick reheat, pop them in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes, or until they are heated through. Be aware that microwaving will soften their crispy exterior. If you prefer to revive some of their crispiness, spread the potatoes on a baking sheet and reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or in an air fryer for 5-8 minutes, until warmed through and re-crisped to your liking.

Discover More Delicious Vegan Potato Recipes

If these crispy smashed potatoes have sparked your craving for more comforting and creative potato dishes, you’re in luck! We have an abundance of fantastic vegan potato recipes for you to explore next, showcasing the incredible versatility of this beloved vegetable:

• Air Fryer Potato Wedges: Quick, easy, and perfectly spiced, these wedges are a healthier alternative to fries.
• Loaded Sweet Potato Skins: A hearty and flavorful appetizer or light meal, packed with savory fillings.
• Vegan Scalloped Potatoes: Creamy, dreamy, and utterly indulgent layers of potato perfection.
• Sweet Potato Tater Tots: A fun and wholesome twist on a classic childhood favorite.
• Vegan Mashed Potatoes: Smooth, rich, and wonderfully comforting, a staple for any meal.

We hope you enjoy this delightful recipe, friends! If you make these incredible Crispy Smashed Potatoes, we’d absolutely love to see your creations. Please snap a photo and tag #jessicainthekitchen on Instagram! Your feedback means the world to us, so please consider leaving a comment below and giving the recipe a rating. Thank you so much for your support!

Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Servings:
5

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
1 hr 10 mins

Total Time:
1 hr 25 mins

These Crispy Smashed Potatoes are as fun to make as they are to eat! While you can’t go wrong with good old roasted potatoes, smashed potatoes introduce a whole new textural element, contrasting a buttery interior with crispy edges. One bite and you’ll be hooked!

5 (from 5 ratings)

Print Recipe
Pin Recipe
Leave a Review

Ingredients

• 2 lbs baby potatoes, (small, or bigger ones cut in half)
• 1 tablespoon sea salt, for boiling
• 1/2 – 1 teaspoon flaky salt, for topping potatoes
• 3 – 4 tablespoons olive oil
• pesto, or vegan cheese to top (optional but delish!)

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil with the tablespoon of sea salt. Add in your potatoes and boil your potatoes (skins on) for 20 minutes. Remove the potatoes and drain them in a colander of all their liquid until dry.
2. Preheat your oven to 450°F/230°C.
3. Place the potatoes on a greased parchment paper and squish/smash them with the bottom circular side of a glass. Drizzle with the olive oil all over on both sides and sprinkle with the flaky sea salt. You want to really coat them in it!
4. Bake for 25 minutes! Top with pesto, shredded vegan cheese or more sea salt and enjoy!

Notes

• Use potatoes that are about the same size to make sure that they all cook evenly.
• Cook the potatoes until just fork tender. If they’re overcooked, they’ll fall apart when smashed.
• Be generous with the olive oil. It’s what gives the potatoes their crispy texture and rich flavor.
• Use a dark-colored sheet pan to help encourage browning.
• Flip the potatoes once, halfway through baking, for extra crispy results on both sides.

Nutrition Facts (Estimated per serving)

Calories: 313kcal, Carbohydrates: 32g, Protein: 4g, Fat: 20g, Saturated Fat: 3g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g, Monounsaturated Fat: 14g, Sodium: 1407mg, Potassium: 764mg, Fiber: 4g, Sugar: 1g, Vitamin A: 4IU, Vitamin C: 36mg, Calcium: 23mg, Iron: 2mg

Disclaimer: Although jessicainthekitchen.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, kindly note that these are only estimates. Nutritional information may be affected based on the product type, the brand that was purchased, and in other unforeseeable ways. Jessicainthekitchen.com will not be held liable for any loss or damage resulting for your reliance on nutritional information. If you need to follow a specific caloric regimen, please consult your doctor first.

Cuisine:
American

Course:
Side Dish, Sides

Author:
Jessica Hylton