Crispy Smashed Potatoes: Golden, Crunchy Perfection in Every Bite
If you love the fluffy interior of mashed potatoes and the irresistible crunch of roasted potatoes, Crispy Smashed Potatoes are about to become your new obsession. This easy smashed potatoes recipe delivers the best of both worlds: tender, buttery centers wrapped in crackly, golden edges that shatter with every bite.
Perfect as a crispy potato side dish for weeknight dinners, holiday spreads, or casual gatherings, oven roasted smashed potatoes are simple to prepare yet impressive enough to serve to guests. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can create a dish that’s comforting, flavorful, and completely crave-worthy.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know to master this garlic smashed potatoes recipe and make it your own.
Why You’ll Love These Crispy Smashed Potatoes
There are plenty of potato recipes out there, but crispy smashed potatoes stand out for several reasons:
- Ultra crispy edges with soft, fluffy centers
- Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor
- Naturally vegetarian and easy to customize
- Great for meal prep and reheating
- Crowd-pleasing side dish for any occasion
Unlike traditional mashed potatoes, which are whipped smooth, smashed potatoes are gently flattened before roasting. This creates more surface area, which means more crispiness. The result is a golden crust that’s deeply satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds baby potatoes (Yukon gold or red potatoes work best)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (plus more for finishing)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional but recommended)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Follow these step-by-step instructions to achieve perfectly crispy smashed potatoes every time.
1. Boil the Potatoes
Place the baby potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold, salted water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. You should be able to easily pierce them without resistance.
Drain the potatoes and allow them to steam dry for 5–10 minutes. This step helps remove excess moisture, which is key to achieving crispy edges later.
2. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
High heat is essential for creating that golden, crispy crust.
3. Smash the Potatoes
Arrange the boiled potatoes evenly on the baking sheet, leaving space between each one. Using the bottom of a sturdy glass or a potato masher, gently press down on each potato until it flattens to about ½ inch thick.
Be careful not to smash them too thin — you want them flattened but still intact.
4. Season Generously
In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Brush or drizzle this mixture evenly over each smashed potato, making sure the edges are coated. This helps them crisp beautifully.
Sprinkle grated parmesan over the top if using.
5. Roast Until Crispy
Bake for 25–35 minutes, or until the edges are deeply golden and crispy. For extra crispiness, you can broil for 2–3 minutes at the end — just watch carefully to avoid burning.
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with flaky sea salt and fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the crispy, crackling exterior and fluffy interior.
Tips for Extra Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Let Them Steam Dry
After boiling, allow the potatoes to dry slightly before smashing. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
Don’t Crowd the Pan
Spacing matters. Overcrowding traps steam and prevents proper browning. Use two baking sheets if needed.
Use High Heat
425°F is ideal. Lower temperatures won’t give you that signature crisp texture.
Flip for Even Crisping
If you want both sides ultra-crispy, carefully flip the potatoes halfway through roasting.
Flavor Variations
One of the best things about this easy smashed potatoes recipe is how customizable it is.
Garlic Herb Smashed Potatoes
Add fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the olive oil mixture for a fragrant, savory twist.
Cheesy Loaded Smashed Potatoes
Top with shredded cheddar during the last 5 minutes of baking. Finish with sour cream and chives.
Spicy Smashed Potatoes
Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot honey before serving.
Vegan Option
Skip the parmesan and use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative with a cheesy flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Crispy smashed potatoes pair beautifully with:
- Grilled chicken or steak
- Roasted salmon
- Burgers or sandwiches
- Fresh green salads
- Holiday roasts
They’re also fantastic as a party appetizer served with dipping sauces like garlic aioli, ranch, or spicy ketchup.
The Secret to Perfect Texture
The magic of oven roasted smashed potatoes lies in contrast. The boiling step ensures the interior becomes fluffy and tender. The smashing step increases surface area. The high-heat roasting creates caramelization and crunch.
That combination of textures is what makes this crispy potato side dish so addictive.
Using baby Yukon gold potatoes gives a buttery flavor and creamy interior. Red potatoes hold their shape well and create a slightly firmer bite. Either works beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat:
- Oven: 400°F for 10–15 minutes
- Air fryer: 375°F for 5–7 minutes
- Avoid microwaving, as it softens the crisp texture
Reheating in dry heat restores the crunch.
Make-Ahead Instructions
You can boil the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, then smash and roast when ready to serve.
This makes them perfect for entertaining or holiday meals.
Fun Potato Facts
Potatoes are one of the most widely consumed foods in the world and are naturally gluten-free. They’re also rich in potassium and vitamin C.
Crispy smashed potatoes have surged in popularity on social media because of their photogenic, golden appearance and satisfying crunch. It’s easy to see why — they look as good as they taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use larger potatoes?
Yes, simply cut them into halves or thick slices before boiling and smashing.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Absolutely. After boiling and smashing, air fry at 400°F for about 15–20 minutes until crispy.
Why aren’t my potatoes crispy?
Common causes include:
- Not drying the potatoes after boiling
- Too low oven temperature
- Overcrowded baking sheet
Adjusting these factors will dramatically improve results.
Final Thoughts
Crispy Smashed Potatoes are proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. With their crunchy edges, tender centers, and endless customization options, they’re a must-have recipe in every home cook’s collection.
Whether you’re preparing a casual family dinner or hosting a special gathering, this garlic smashed potatoes recipe delivers comfort and crunch in every bite. Once you try these oven roasted smashed potatoes, you’ll never look at plain roasted potatoes the same way again.
Make them once — and watch them disappear.
Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Boil baby potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and let steam dry.
- Place potatoes on baking sheet and gently smash each one to about 1/2 inch thick.
- Mix olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Brush over potatoes.
- Sprinkle with parmesan cheese if using.
- Bake 25–35 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
