Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite side dish: oven baked crispy smashed potatoes! Seriously, these little beauties are not only ridiculously easy to make, but they also pack a flavor punch that keeps everyone coming back for more. I love how simple ingredients transform into something so delightful! You take these cute baby potatoes, boil them until they’re tender, then give them a little smash, drizzle on some olive oil, sprinkle on a few seasonings, and pop them in the oven. In just about 50 minutes, you’ll have the crispiest, most golden potatoes that are so satisfying to bite into. Trust me, they pair perfectly with just about anything—grilled chicken, steak, or even a veggie burger. Once you try these oven baked crispy smashed potatoes, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these oven baked crispy smashed potatoes absolutely irresistible. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 pounds baby potatoes (about a bag from the grocery store works perfectly)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin is my favorite for that rich flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or fresh garlic if you’re feeling fancy!)
- 1 teaspoon salt (don’t be shy with this, it really brings out the flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (adjust based on your spice preference)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (like parsley or chives, totally optional but they look so pretty!)
That’s it! Simple, right? I love how these ingredients come together to create something so delicious and satisfying. Make sure to check your pantry for these staples before you start cooking!
How to Prepare Oven Baked Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Now, let’s dive into the magic of making these oven baked crispy smashed potatoes! I promise, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be whipping them up for every meal. Grab your apron, and let’s get started!
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures that your potatoes cook evenly and get that lovely golden crispiness. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step; it really makes all the difference!
Step 2: Boil the Potatoes
Next, let’s boil those baby potatoes! Place them in a large pot and cover them with water, adding a generous pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil and let them cook for about 15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when you can easily poke them with a fork—just tender enough to smash, but not too soft. Nobody wants mushy potatoes, right?
Step 3: Smash the Potatoes
Once your potatoes are boiled and tender, it’s time to smash! Carefully drain them and let them cool for a minute (don’t burn your fingers!). Then, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Now, grab a fork or a potato masher and gently smash each potato down. You want them to flatten a bit, but not completely fall apart—think of it as giving them a little hug!
Step 4: Season and Bake
Now comes the fun part: seasoning and baking! Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil, making sure they’re nicely coated. Then, sprinkle on the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Give them a little toss to ensure every potato is flavorful. Pop them in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, I like to flip them for that extra crispy goodness. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and have that irresistible crunch!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s talk about some pro tips to make sure your oven baked crispy smashed potatoes turn out perfectly every time! I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way that I can’t wait to share with you.
- Adjust Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to play around with the seasonings! If you love a little heat, toss in some cayenne pepper or chili flakes. Want a herbaceous twist? Fresh rosemary or thyme can elevate the flavors. Trust your taste buds!
- Flip for Extra Crispiness: As I mentioned, flipping the potatoes halfway through baking is a game changer! It helps them crisp up on both sides and makes sure you get that golden exterior all around. It’s like giving them a little dance in the oven!
- Don’t Overcrowd: Make sure to give each smashed potato some space on the baking sheet. If they’re too close together, they won’t get that nice crispiness we’re after. Give them room to breathe!
- Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper not only helps with cleanup but also prevents sticking. Plus, it gives your potatoes a nice base to crisp up against!
- Let Them Rest: After baking, let the potatoes sit for a few minutes before digging in. This helps them firm up a bit and makes them even more delicious. I know it’s hard to wait, but you’ll be glad you did!
With these tips, you’ll be on your way to mastering the art of oven baked crispy smashed potatoes. Enjoy the process and don’t forget to have fun in the kitchen!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up a batch of these oven baked crispy smashed potatoes, let’s talk about how to make them shine on your dinner table! They’re such a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:
- Grilled Chicken: The crispy texture of the potatoes complements juicy grilled chicken perfectly. Whether it’s a lemon herb marinated or barbecue-style, they’ll make a delightful duo!
- Steak: Is there anything better than a perfectly cooked steak alongside these smashed potatoes? The savory flavors of the beef and the crispy potatoes create a match made in heaven.
- Roasted Vegetables: For a vegetarian option, serve these potatoes with a medley of roasted vegetables. The contrast of textures and flavors will leave everyone satisfied!
- Fish Tacos: If you’re looking for something a little different, try serving them with fish tacos! The crispy potatoes add a hearty element to the light and fresh flavors of the tacos.
- Salads: Pair them with a fresh salad for a lighter meal. A simple arugula salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance the richness of the potatoes beautifully.
Whatever you choose to serve with your oven baked crispy smashed potatoes, you really can’t go wrong! They add that perfect crunch and flavor that elevates any meal. Enjoy the deliciousness!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional information for these fantastic oven baked crispy smashed potatoes. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but this should give you a good idea:
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 4g
These oven baked crispy smashed potatoes are not only delicious but also a relatively guilt-free indulgence. Perfect for any meal, they’re a great way to add some comforting goodness to your plate without overdoing it. Enjoy every crispy bite!
FAQ Section
Got questions about oven baked crispy smashed potatoes? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with my answers to help you navigate your potato journey:
Can I use larger potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Absolutely! You can use larger potatoes, but just keep in mind that you’ll need to adjust the boiling time. Aim for tender potatoes that can still hold their shape when smashed. Just cut them into smaller chunks to speed up the cooking time!
How can I make these potatoes even crispier?
For that extra crunch, try flipping the potatoes halfway through baking as I mentioned earlier. Also, you can increase the oven temperature slightly during the last few minutes to really crisp them up. Just keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
Can I prepare the potatoes ahead of time?
Definitely! You can boil and smash the potatoes ahead of time, then store them in the fridge for a few hours. When you’re ready to bake, just drizzle with olive oil and season, then pop them in the oven. It’s a great time-saver!
What should I do if my potatoes are sticking to the baking sheet?
If you find your potatoes are sticking, don’t fret! Make sure to use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat next time. It’s a game changer for easy release and cleanup. Just give them a little nudge with a spatula if they’re being stubborn!
Can I add cheese to my smashed potatoes?
Oh, yes! Cheese is a fantastic addition! Try sprinkling some shredded cheddar or parmesan on top during the last few minutes of baking for a melty, delicious finish. Just imagine that cheesy goodness combined with the crispy texture—heaven!
With these FAQs in mind, you’re all set to create the most delightful oven baked crispy smashed potatoes. Happy cooking!
Ingredient Notes/Substitutions
Let’s chat about the ingredients for these oven baked crispy smashed potatoes and some easy swaps you can make to suit your taste or dietary needs! I love how adaptable this recipe is, and I’m here to help you make it work with what you have on hand.
- Baby Potatoes: If you can’t find baby potatoes, don’t worry! You can use regular Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just cut them into smaller chunks to ensure they cook evenly and are easy to smash.
- Olive Oil: While I adore olive oil for its rich flavor, you can use any cooking oil you have on hand, like vegetable oil, canola oil, or even avocado oil. Each will give you a slightly different taste, but they’ll all work beautifully!
- Garlic Powder: If you’re a garlic lover, consider using fresh minced garlic instead! Just add it to the oil before drizzling over the potatoes to infuse that wonderful garlicky flavor. If you’re avoiding garlic altogether, feel free to skip it or use garlic-infused oil for a milder touch.
- Salt and Pepper: These are pretty standard, but if you’re watching your sodium intake, feel free to reduce the salt or use a salt substitute. For a twist, try seasoning with garlic salt or smoked paprika for a unique flavor boost!
- Fresh Herbs: While fresh herbs add a lovely touch, they’re totally optional. If you don’t have any on hand, you can use dried herbs instead—just remember that dried herbs are more potent, so you’ll want to use less. Alternatively, a sprinkle of grated cheese at the end can add a delightful flavor without the herbs!
With these ingredient notes and substitutions, you can customize your oven baked crispy smashed potatoes any way you like! The key is to have fun and experiment. Happy cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: In just about 50 minutes, you can have a delicious side dish ready to impress your family or friends!
- Easy Cooking: With just a few simple steps, anyone can make these crispy smashed potatoes. No fancy techniques required—just boil, smash, season, and bake!
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of crispy edges and fluffy insides, along with the perfect seasoning, creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Side Dish: These potatoes pair beautifully with almost any main course, from grilled meats to hearty vegetarian dishes.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the seasonings or add toppings to suit your taste, making this recipe as unique as you are!
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the fun texture and flavor of these smashed potatoes. They’re sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
- Perfect for Meal Prep: These crispy smashed potatoes can be prepped ahead of time, making them a great option for busy weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Once you give these oven baked crispy smashed potatoes a try, I guarantee they’ll become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the deliciousness!
Imprimer
Oven Baked Crispy Smashed Potatoes that Wow in 50 Minutes
- Temps Total: 50 minutes
- Rendement: 4 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Végétarien
Description
Crispy smashed potatoes baked in the oven.
Ingrédients
- 2 pounds baby potatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Boil the baby potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
- Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and smash each one with a fork or potato masher.
- Drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes.
- Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- Adjust seasonings to your taste.
- For extra crispiness, flip the potatoes halfway through baking.
- Temps De Préparation: 10 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 40 minutes
- Catégorie: Side Dish
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: American
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sucre: 1g
- De Sodium: 300mg
- La graisse: 10g
- Graisses Saturées: 1.5g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 8.5g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 28g
- La fibre: 3g
- La protéine: 4g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 0mg
Mots-clés: oven baked crispy smashed potatoes
