Description

These crispy smashed potatoes are the easiest, most reliable side dish you will ever make. By boiling then smashing waxy potatoes and baking them with garlic herb butter, you get a fluffy interior and crunchy, golden edges.

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs small waxy potatoes (baby golds or baby reds)
2 tablespoons vegetable or olive oil
1 teaspoon salt (plus more for boiling water)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4–5 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly cracked
¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Instructions

Wash potatoes thoroughly. Leave small potatoes whole; cut large potatoes in half.
Fill a large pot with water, add 1 tablespoon salt, and bring to a rolling boil.
Add potatoes and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes until tender but not falling apart.
Drain potatoes and let them steam dry for a few minutes to remove excess moisture.
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place warm potatoes on the sheet and smash them flat with a fork or glass until about ¼ inch thick.
Melt butter in a small saucepan or microwave. Stir in minced garlic, parsley, thyme, and pepper.
Drizzle or brush the garlic herb butter generously over the smashed potatoes.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until edges are golden brown and crispy.
Optional: Broil for the last 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness, watching closely to prevent burning.
Let cool for 2-3 minutes and serve immediately.

Notes

Use waxy potatoes like baby golds or reds for best results as they hold their shape. Ensure potatoes are dry before smashing to help them crisp up. If using russet potatoes, cut them in half first. For leftovers, reheat in an air fryer or toaster oven to restore crispiness; avoid the microwave.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 smashed potato
Calories: 220
Sugar: 2
Sodium: 400
Fat: 10
Saturated Fat: 5
Carbohydrates: 28
Fiber: 3
Protein: 4

Keywords: crispy smashed potatoes, garlic herb butter, easy side dish, roasted potatoes, weeknight dinner, comfort food