Garlic Herb Smashed Potatoes: Easy Crispy Recipe

Ready to ditch boring side dishes? These Garlic Herb Smashed Potatoes are about to become your new obsession!

Imagine crispy, golden-brown edges giving way to a fluffy, flavorful interior, infused with the irresistible aroma of garlic and fresh herbs. That’s exactly what you get with this ridiculously easy, yet incredibly impressive, Garlic Herb Smashed Potatoes recipe. Perfect for weeknight dinners or fancy gatherings, these smashed potatoes are a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds (and maybe thirds!).

Why You’ll Love It

• Unbeatable Flavor: The combination of garlic, herbs, and crispy potatoes is simply divine.
• Perfect Texture: You get the best of both worlds – crispy edges and fluffy insides.
• Effortless Preparation: This recipe requires minimal hands-on time and only a few basic ingredients.
• Versatile: These smashed potatoes pair well with almost any main course, from steak and chicken to fish and vegetarian dishes.
• Impressive Presentation: They look absolutely stunning on a platter, making them perfect for entertaining.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

Unlike roasted potatoes, smashing them before baking creates a larger surface area, resulting in more crispy edges, which we all know is the best part! Also, parboiling the potatoes before smashing ensures they are perfectly cooked and fluffy on the inside. Using fresh herbs, like rosemary and thyme, really elevates the flavor of the garlic-infused olive oil.

Ingredient List

• 2 lbs small Yukon Gold potatoes (or other waxy potato)
• 1/4 cup olive oil (the base for our delicious garlic herb infusion)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are slightly tender but not fully cooked (about 10-12 minutes). They should be easily pierced with a fork but still have some resistance.
3. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
4. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Place the partially cooked potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup, gently press down on each potato until it is about ½-inch thick.
7. Drizzle the garlic herb oil over the smashed potatoes, making sure each potato is coated.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy.
9. Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Optional Toppings/Variations

While the garlic and herb flavors are amazing on their own, there are plenty of ways to mix things up:

• Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic oil for a touch of heat.
• Lemon Zest: Add some lemon zest to the garlic oil for brightness.
• Different Herbs: Experiment with other herbs like oregano, parsley, or chives.
• Bacon Bits: Top with crispy bacon bits for added flavor and texture.

Expert Tips

• Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Parboil them until they’re just slightly tender; they’ll continue to cook in the oven.
• Use a Good Quality Olive Oil: It makes a difference in the overall flavor.
• Smash Evenly: Press down with a consistent amount of pressure to ensure even baking.
• Don’t Crowd the Baking Sheet: Leave space between the potatoes so they crisp up properly.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the salt and pepper before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Is it possible to use different types of potatoes? While Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture, you can use other waxy potatoes like red potatoes or fingerlings. Avoid using russet potatoes as they can become too dry.
• Can I make these ahead of time? You can parboil and smash the potatoes ahead of time, then store them in the refrigerator. Drizzle with the garlic oil and bake before serving.
• How do I store leftovers? Store leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or an air fryer for best results.
• Can You freeze these potatoes? Yes, you can freeze them after baking. When you are ready to eat them, bake them straight from frozen, but they will have a slightly different texture.
• Using dried herbs instead of fresh? Yes, use 1 teaspoon of each dried herb as a substitute for 2 tablespoons of fresh herbs.

Variations and Customization Options

Want to switch things up a bit? Here are a few variations to try:

• Spicy Smashed Potatoes: Add some chili flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the olive oil mixture for a fiery kick.
• Cheesy Smashed Potatoes: Sprinkle with a mixture of your favorite cheeses during the last few minutes of baking until melted and bubbly.
• Mediterranean Smashed Potatoes: Top with crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of fresh oregano after baking.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic herb smashed potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be served alongside a wide variety of dishes. They make a great side for grilled meats, roasted chicken, fish, or vegetarian entrees. They also pair perfectly with salads or can be served as an appetizer with a dipping sauce. They are great for holiday meals or casual dinners.

Conclusion

These Garlic Herb Smashed Potatoes are the perfect combination of crispy and fluffy, flavorful and easy to make. They’re guaranteed to be a hit with everyone, and you’ll find yourself making them again and again. So, what are you waiting for? Grab those potatoes and get smashing! Don’t forget to share your photos and tag us when you make them. Happy cooking!