Name: Smashed Potatoes Baked - Crispy Golden Garlic Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: Baby potatoes or small Yukon Gold potatoes: 1.5 pounds; Olive oil: 3 tablespoons; Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon; Salt: 1 teaspoon or to taste; Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon; Fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped: 1 tablespoon (optional); Parmesan cheese, grated: 1/4 cup (optional)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Smashed Potatoes Baked

Smashed potatoes baked are a perfect balance of crispy edges and tender interiors. Unlike regular roasted potatoes, each potato is boiled until tender, gently smashed to flatten slightly, then baked to golden perfection. The result is a crunchy, flavorful exterior that gives way to a soft, fluffy center. Every bite delivers a satisfying mix of textures and a rich, savory flavor.

View More Vegetable Recipes

What makes smashed potatoes baked special is their simplicity combined with versatility. They can serve as a side dish for casual weeknight dinners, elegant holiday spreads, or even game-day snacks. The flavor adapts easily to seasonings, herbs, and cheese, making them a dish that both home cooks and guests love. These potatoes are not just practical; they’re indulgent in the way only perfectly roasted potatoes can be.

People enjoy smashed potatoes baked because they are approachable to make but deliver a restaurant-quality result. Whether you are seeking the best crispy smashed potatoes or a quick side for family dinners, this dish fits naturally into any menu. Its golden, crunchy edges and creamy interiors make it a standout among quick potatoes recipes side dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect texture every time
The method of boiling, smashing, and baking ensures each potato has a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. This contrast of textures makes every bite satisfying and keeps the dish from feeling heavy or greasy.
Simple ingredients, impressive results
Using just potatoes, oil, seasoning, and optional toppings like Parmesan or herbs, this recipe produces restaurant-quality flavor without complicated steps. It’s approachable for home cooks but still feels elevated.
Versatile and adaptable
This recipe works well for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or holiday meals. You can easily adjust seasonings, add cheese, garlic, or spices, and create variations like golden smashed potatoes, Parmesan smashed potatoes baked, or crispy smash potatoes to suit any occasion.
Quick and convenient
Despite their impressive results, smashed potatoes baked are easy to prepare and cook in under an hour. They are compatible with quick potatoes recipes side dishes, and can even be partially prepared ahead of time to save effort during busy days.
Kid- and guest-friendly
The familiar flavors, crispy texture, and tender interiors appeal to all ages. Whether serving family or entertaining, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with a wide range of main courses.
Consistently delicious
Following this recipe guarantees success every time. The technique ensures potatoes brown evenly, retain moisture, and develop rich, savory flavors, making it one of the best crispy smashed potatoes recipes you’ll return to again and again.

Preparation and Cooking Time, also serving

Prep time: 15 minutes
Boiling time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings
Serving size: About 5-6 small to medium potatoes per person

Ingredients

Baby potatoes or small Yukon Gold potatoes: 1.5 pounds
Olive oil: 3 tablespoons
Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
Salt: 1 teaspoon or to taste
Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
Fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped: 1 tablespoon (optional)
Parmesan cheese, grated: 1/4 cup (optional)

Substitution Notes

Use red potatoes or fingerling potatoes for a different texture
Avocado oil or melted butter can replace olive oil
Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a dairy-free version

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Boil the potatoes

Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook until tender when pierced with a fork, about 15 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly.

Step 2: Preheat the oven and prepare baking sheet

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil.

Step 3: Smash the potatoes

Place the boiled potatoes on the baking sheet. Using a potato masher or the bottom of a glass, gently press down on each potato until slightly flattened but still intact. The goal is a thin surface for crisping while keeping the interior soft.

Step 4: Season and oil

Drizzle the olive oil over the smashed potatoes. Sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional herbs. If using Parmesan, sprinkle it evenly over the potatoes for extra flavor.

Step 5: Bake until golden and crispy

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, turning halfway through for even crisping. The edges should be golden brown and crisp, while the centers remain fluffy.

How to Serve

Smashed potatoes baked are best enjoyed hot, straight from the oven when the edges are golden and crisp, and the centers remain tender. For an appealing presentation, arrange them on a wide platter or serving dish so each potato is visible and accessible. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil or melted butter for shine, and finish with freshly chopped herbs such as parsley, rosemary, or thyme. This not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the aroma, making the dish more inviting and appetizing.

These potatoes pair wonderfully with a variety of main courses and side dishes. They are a natural complement to roasted meats, grilled chicken, fish, or even a vegetable-focused meal. For casual dinners, serve alongside a crisp green salad or sautéed greens. For indulgent meals, consider topping them with shredded cheese, sour cream, or bacon for a loaded version that doubles as a fun, shareable side. Whether plated individually or family-style, smashed potatoes baked elevate any meal with their crispy texture, creamy interior, and irresistible flavor.

Additional Tips

Use small, evenly sized potatoes to ensure uniform cooking
Let the potatoes cool slightly after boiling so they hold their shape when smashed
Use a thin layer of oil on the baking sheet to prevent sticking
Turn potatoes halfway through baking for even crisping
Optional: broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for extra crunch

Recipe Variations

Parmesan Smashed Potatoes Baked
Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan over the potatoes before baking. The cheese melts into a golden, slightly crisp crust that adds savory depth and a touch of indulgence to the tender interior.
Garlic Herb Smashed Potatoes
Mix minced garlic with fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley and toss the smashed potatoes before baking. This variation infuses aromatic flavors that complement meats, poultry, or roasted vegetables perfectly.
Spicy Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Add smoked paprika, chili flakes, or cayenne to the olive oil and seasoning mix. Baking these creates a flavorful, mildly spicy version with a rich, smoky undertone that pairs well with simple weeknight proteins.
Loaded Smashed Potatoes
Top baked potatoes with shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, sour cream, and chopped green onions. This variation turns them into a hearty, shareable dish suitable for brunch, game-day snacks, or indulgent dinners.
Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
Combine minced garlic with Parmesan and sprinkle over the potatoes before baking. This combination produces extra golden edges and a rich, cheesy flavor that elevates this side dish to a decadent, yet approachable version.
Mediterranean Style Smashed Potatoes
Toss smashed potatoes with olive oil, garlic, oregano, and a sprinkle of feta cheese after baking. This creates a tangy, herby variation inspired by Mediterranean flavors, perfect for pairing with grilled fish or chicken.

Freezing and Storage

Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes until crispy
Freezing is possible, but best for partially cooked potatoes; bake again fully when ready

Nutritional Information

Calories: 180 per serving
Protein: 4 grams
Fat: 7 grams
Carbohydrates: 26 grams
Fiber: 3 grams
Sugar: 1 gram

Final Words

Smashed potatoes baked are a dish that perfectly balances simplicity and sophistication. The method of boiling, gently smashing, and baking each potato allows the exterior to crisp beautifully while keeping the interior soft and tender. This combination of textures makes every bite satisfying and comforting, elevating what might otherwise be a basic side into a standout element of any meal.

One of the best aspects of making smashed potatoes baked at home is the flexibility it offers. You can easily adjust the seasoning, oil, and toppings to suit your taste or the occasion. Whether you want classic garlic and rosemary, a cheesy Parmesan crust, or a hint of spice, each variation is simple to execute and delivers consistent, restaurant-quality results. This versatility makes the recipe perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday spreads, or casual gatherings with friends and family.

Preparing smashed potatoes baked also allows you to engage with the cooking process in a hands-on but manageable way. The steps are straightforward, yet the result feels carefully crafted, giving home cooks a sense of accomplishment. You can even prep the potatoes ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy schedules while still delivering that golden, crispy finish everyone loves.

Ultimately, smashed potatoes baked are more than just a side dish they are a reliable way to impress without stress. Their golden, crispy edges, tender centers, and ability to adapt to multiple flavor profiles ensure they will be requested again and again. Once you incorporate this recipe into your rotation, it becomes a dependable go-to that consistently delivers both visual appeal and unforgettable taste, adding comfort and elegance to any meal.

FAQ’s

Yes, but adjust boiling time and consider cutting them into smaller pieces for even cooking.

Ensure they are slightly flattened, well-oiled, and bake at a high temperature, turning once halfway through.

Yes, you can boil and smash them ahead of time, then refrigerate and bake when ready.

Yes, sweet potatoes work but will require slightly longer baking time and yield a different flavor.

They can be, especially if using olive oil and minimal cheese, while still providing a crispy, satisfying texture.