If you love crispy, golden-brown potatoes with a fluffy center, this Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe is a must-try! These potatoes are the perfect balance of crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a crowd-pleasing side dish for any meal. Unlike mashed potatoes, which are creamy and smooth, smashed potatoes keep their rustic texture and develop an irresistible crunch when baked.
What You’ll Learn in This Guide:
The difference between smashed and mashed potatoes
The best type of potatoes for making ultra-crispy smashed potatoes
A step-by-step method for achieving the perfect golden-brown crust
Expert tips to make them even crispier and more flavorful
Ready to make the crispiest smashed potatoes ever? Let’s get started!
Check out this Chicken and Waffle Sandwich Recipe – A crispy side like smashed potatoes pairs perfectly with this dish.
Table of contents
- What You’ll Learn in This Guide:
- What Are Smashed Potatoes?
- Ingredients for the Best Crispy Smashed Potatoes
- How to Make Crispy Smashed Potatoes Step-by-Step
- Tips for Extra Crispy Smashed Potatoes
- Seasoning Variations for Smashed Potatoes
- What to Serve with Crispy Smashed Potatoes
- Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
- FAQs on Making the Best Crispy Smashed Potatoes
- Conclusion & Final Tips
What Are Smashed Potatoes?
Smashed potatoes are whole, boiled potatoes that are lightly crushed and then baked or air-fried until crispy. They are different from mashed potatoes, which are fully blended with butter and milk for a creamy texture. The magic of smashed potatoes comes from smashing them just enough to create rough edges that crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Smashed Potatoes vs. Mashed Potatoes
| Feature | Smashed Potatoes | Mashed Potatoes |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Crispy outside, fluffy inside | Creamy and smooth |
| Preparation | Boiled, smashed, then roasted | Boiled, mashed, mixed with butter/milk |
| Cooking Method | Oven-baked or air-fried | Typically boiled and mashed |
| Best Potatoes | Baby potatoes, Yukon Gold, or red potatoes | Russet or Yukon Gold |
| Serving Style | Crispy rounds with toppings | Soft, buttery puree |
Why Are Smashed Potatoes So Popular?
Texture Perfection – A crispy crust with a fluffy center makes them irresistible.
Easy to Make – No fancy techniques needed—just boil, smash, and bake!
Customizable – Add garlic butter, Parmesan, or spicy seasonings to suit your taste.
Perfect Side Dish – They pair well with steak, chicken, seafood, and even eggs.
Now that you know what makes smashed potatoes so special, let’s talk about the best ingredients to use for that perfect crunch!
Ingredients for the Best Crispy Smashed Potatoes
The secret to making extra crispy smashed potatoes starts with choosing the right ingredients. The type of potatoes, the oil-to-butter ratio, and the seasonings all play a huge role in achieving the perfect balance of crunch and flavor.
Best Type of Potatoes to Use
Not all potatoes work well for smashed potatoes. To get that crispy exterior and soft, creamy interior, you need small, waxy potatoes that hold their shape after boiling.
✔️ Baby Potatoes – The best option! Their thin skin and waxy texture make them ideal for smashing and crisping. Yukon Gold, red potatoes, or fingerlings work perfectly.
✔️ Yukon Gold Potatoes – If you prefer larger smashed potatoes, go for Yukon Gold. They have a buttery flavor and crisp up beautifully.
❌ Avoid Russet Potatoes – They are too starchy and tend to fall apart when smashed.
Looking for inspiration? Try This Blackstone Chicken Recipe – If you love crispy textures, this Blackstone-style recipe is a must-try!
Essential Ingredients for Flavorful Potatoes
Here’s everything you’ll need to make crispy, golden smashed potatoes:
Base Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes (or Yukon Gold for bigger smashed potatoes)
- 3 tbsp olive oil (for maximum crispiness)
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for rich flavor)
- 1 tsp sea salt (enhances flavor)
- ½ tsp black pepper (for a subtle kick)
Flavor Boosters (Optional but Recommended!):
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (for garlicky goodness)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (adds depth and slight smokiness)
- ½ tsp onion powder (for extra savory flavor)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for a fresh, herby finish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for a cheesy twist)
Why Use Both Olive Oil and Butter?
✔️ Olive oil helps create a crispy golden crust.
✔️ Butter adds richness and flavor to the potatoes.
✔️ The best combo? Use both! Olive oil ensures crispiness, while butter enhances taste.
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get into the step-by-step process for making these crispy smashed potatoes!
Discover great ideas like Sweet Breakfast Recipes – Balance out your meal with something sweet.
How to Make Crispy Smashed Potatoes Step-by-Step
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to make the crispiest smashed potatoes ever! The key to getting golden, crunchy potatoes is the right combination of boiling, smashing, and roasting at high heat. Follow these simple steps for a fail-proof recipe.
Step 1: Boiling the Potatoes to Perfection
The first step to crispy smashed potatoes is boiling them until fork-tender.
✅ Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold, salted water (salt helps enhance the flavor).
✅ Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
✅ Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly for about 5 minutes before smashing.
Pro Tip: Don’t overboil! If the potatoes are too soft, they’ll fall apart when smashed.
Step 2: Smashing Techniques for Perfect Crispiness
Now comes the fun part—smashing the potatoes! This step creates those crispy ridges that make smashed potatoes so delicious.
✅ Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
✅ Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
✅ Place the boiled potatoes on the baking sheet, spacing them at least 1 inch apart.
✅ Using a fork, potato masher, or the bottom of a glass, gently smash each potato until it’s about ½ inch thick.
Don’t miss our Guide to Homemade Beef Sausage – Crispy smashed potatoes make a great side for hearty meats like beef sausage.
Smashing Tip:
- Thinner potatoes = crispier texture
- Thicker potatoes = more fluffy interior
Step 3: Adding Oil & Seasoning for Maximum Flavor
This step ensures your smashed potatoes get crispy, golden, and flavorful!
✅ Drizzle olive oil & melted butter evenly over the smashed potatoes.
✅ Season generously with salt, black pepper, and any additional seasonings (garlic, paprika, Parmesan, etc.).
✅ Flip the potatoes to coat both sides in oil—this helps create a crispy texture all over.
Step 4: Oven-Baking vs. Air-Frying – Which One is Better?
The final step is roasting the smashed potatoes until they are golden brown and ultra-crispy. You can either bake them in the oven or air-fry them—both methods work great!
| Cooking Method | Crispiness Level | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Oven-Baked | High | 425°F (20-25 mins) |
| Air-Fried | Extra Crispy | 400°F (15-18 mins) |
Oven-Baking Instructions:
✔️ Bake at 425°F (218°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
✔️ If you want extra crunch, broil for the last 3-5 minutes.
Air-Frying Instructions:
✔️ Air-fry at 400°F for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Once they are crispy and golden brown, remove from the oven/air fryer and sprinkle with fresh parsley or Parmesan cheese for extra flavor!
Now that you’ve mastered how to make crispy smashed potatoes, let’s go even further with pro tips to make them extra crispy!
Tips for Extra Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Want to take your smashed potatoes to the next level? Here are some expert tips to make them extra crispy, golden, and delicious every time!
1. Oil vs. Butter – Which Works Best?
The secret to perfectly crispy smashed potatoes is using the right fat.
✔️ Olive oil – Helps achieve a crunchy, golden exterior.
✔️ Butter – Adds rich flavor and a slight crisp.
✔️ Best option? Use both! Drizzle olive oil for crispiness, then brush with butter for flavor.
2. Temperature & Baking Time for Maximum Crunch
The higher the temperature, the crispier the potatoes!
🔥 Oven Temperature: 425°F (218°C) is ideal for crispy smashed potatoes.
⏳ Bake Time: At least 20-25 minutes (flip halfway for even crispiness).
🔥 For Extra Crunch: Broil for 3-5 minutes at the end.
Looking for inspiratrion try this recipe How to Cook Beef Heart
3. Secrets to Avoid Soggy Smashed Potatoe
❌ Mistake #1: Not Drying the Potatoes Properly
✔️ Fix: After boiling, let the potatoes steam-dry for 5 minutes before smashing. This removes excess moisture, which helps them crisp up.
❌ Mistake #2: Using Too Much or Too Little Oil
✔️ Fix: Lightly coat the potatoes with oil on both sides—too little oil = dry, too much oil = greasy.
❌ Mistake #3: Crowding the Baking Sheet
✔️ Fix: Leave space between the potatoes to allow air circulation for crisping.
❌ Mistake #4: Smashing Too Hard or Too Soft
✔️ Fix: Smash them to ½-inch thickness—too thin and they’ll burn, too thick and they won’t crisp properly.
4. Pro Tip: Double Bake for Extra Crispiness
Want restaurant-style crispy smashed potatoes? Try this trick:
1️⃣ Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F.
2️⃣ Remove from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes.
3️⃣ Bake again for another 10-15 minutes until ultra-crispy.
Now that you know how to make the crispiest smashed potatoes, let’s explore some delicious seasoning variations to level up the flavor!
Seasoning Variations for Smashed Potatoes
One of the best things about smashed potatoes is how versatile they are! While classic salt, pepper, and garlic are always a hit, you can easily switch up the flavors to match your meal or personal taste. Here are some delicious seasoning variations to try!
1. Classic Garlic & Herb Smashed Potatoe
Perfect for a simple, flavorful side dish that pairs with any meal.
🧄 Ingredients:
✔️ 3 cloves garlic (minced)
✔️ 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
✔️ 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
✔️ ½ tsp sea salt
✔️ ¼ tsp black pepper
✔️ 2 tbsp olive oil + 1 tbsp melted butter
🔥 How to Use:
Mix olive oil, melted butter, garlic, and herbs together. Drizzle over the smashed potatoes before baking. Sprinkle with fresh parsley after baking.
2. Cheesy Parmesan Smashed Potatoe
For cheese lovers! The crispy edges combined with melted Parmesan make these potatoes irresistible.
🧀 Ingredients:
✔️ ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
✔️ ½ tsp garlic powder
✔️ ½ tsp onion powder
✔️ ½ tsp smoked paprika
✔️ 2 tbsp olive oil + 1 tbsp melted butter
🔥 How to Use:
Mix olive oil, melted butter, and seasonings, then drizzle over the potatoes. Sprinkle Parmesan in the last 5 minutes of baking so it melts without burning.
3. Spicy & Smoky Smashed Potatoes
Love bold flavors? Add some spicy heat and smokiness to your potatoes!
🌶 Ingredients:
✔️ ½ tsp smoked paprika
✔️ ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to spice level)
✔️ ½ tsp chili powder
✔️ ½ tsp garlic powder
✔️ 2 tbsp olive oil
🔥 How to Use:
Mix the spices into olive oil and coat the potatoes before baking. For extra heat, sprinkle with red pepper flakes after baking.
4. Ranch-Style Smashed Potatoes
For a tangy, herby twist that’s perfect with grilled meats or burgers.
🥗 Ingredients:
✔️ 1 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
✔️ ½ tsp garlic powder
✔️ 1 tbsp fresh chives (chopped)
✔️ 2 tbsp olive oil + 1 tbsp butter
🔥 How to Use:
Mix olive oil, butter, and ranch seasoning and drizzle over the potatoes. Sprinkle fresh chives on top after baking.
5. Lemon & Herb Smashed Potatoe
A fresh and zesty take on smashed potatoes—great for summer meals!
🍋 Ingredients:
✔️ 1 tsp lemon zest
✔️ 1 tbsp lemon juice
✔️ 1 tsp dried oregano or basil
✔️ ½ tsp sea salt
✔️ 2 tbsp olive oil
🔥 How to Use:
Mix olive oil, lemon zest, and herbs together and toss the potatoes in the mixture before baking. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top before serving.
Bonus: The Ultimate Flavor Hack – Mix & Match!
You can combine seasonings for even more amazing flavors! Try these combos:
✔️ Garlic Parmesan + Spicy Smoky (Cheesy & Spicy)
✔️ Lemon Herb + Ranch-Style (Fresh & Tangy)
✔️ Classic Garlic + Cheesy Parmesan (Savory & Crispy)
Now that we’ve covered flavor variations, let’s explore what to serve with crispy smashed potatoes!
What to Serve with Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Crispy smashed potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be served as a side dish, appetizer, or even a snack. Whether you’re pairing them with meats, seafood, or dipping sauces, there’s no shortage of delicious ways to enjoy them!
1. Best Dipping Sauces for Smashed Potatoes
A crispy potato deserves a flavor-packed dip! Here are some tasty sauce ideas:
| Sauce | Flavor Profile | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Garlic Aioli | Creamy & garlicky | A rich, flavorful dip |
| Spicy Sriracha Mayo | Tangy & spicy | Adds a kick to crispy potatoes |
| Classic Ranch | Herby & creamy | A cool balance to warm potatoes |
| Cheese Sauce | Smooth & cheesy | Perfect for a comforting side |
| Honey Mustard | Sweet & tangy | Great with roasted or grilled dishes |
🔥 Pro Tip: Serve a variety of dips for a DIY dipping station!
2. Main Dishes That Pair Perfectly with Smashed Potatoes
Smashed potatoes work well with grilled, roasted, or pan-seared dishes. Here are some winning combos:
Meat-Based Pairings
Grilled Steak – Juicy, smoky steak with crispy potatoes = perfect combo.
Oven-Roasted Chicken – Classic, simple, and always delicious.
BBQ Ribs – Sweet and smoky ribs with crispy potatoes? Yes, please!
Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Pork Chops – A perfect mix of crispy and savory.
Seafood Pairings
Garlic Butter Shrimp – A light but flavorful choice.
Pan-Seared Salmon – A crispy skin salmon fillet pairs beautifully.
Lemon Herb Tilapia – The bright citrus flavors contrast the crispy potatoes.
Vegetarian Pairings
Grilled Portobello Mushrooms – A meaty, umami-rich option.
Creamy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Peppers – Adds a creamy, flavorful contrast.
Mediterranean Hummus Platter – Light and fresh with crispy potatoes as a dipper.
🔥 Pro Tip: Use smashed potatoes as a base for toppings like sour cream, cheese, or avocado for a creative dish!
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
Even simple recipes can go wrong if you’re not careful! Here are common mistakes people make when making smashed potatoes—and how to fix them.
1. Over-Boiling vs. Under-Boiling Potatoes
❌ Mistake:
- Overcooked potatoes become mushy and fall apart when smashed.
- Undercooked potatoes won’t smash easily and will be too firm.
✔️ Fix:
- Boil just until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes).
- If they start breaking apart, they’re overcooked!
2. Using Too Much or Too Little Oil
❌ Mistake:
- Too little oil = dry potatoes that don’t crisp up.
- Too much oil = greasy, soggy potatoes.
✔️ Fix:
- Lightly coat both sides in olive oil + butter before baking.
- Don’t drown the potatoes—just enough to crisp up.
3. Not Smashing the Potatoes Evenly
❌ Mistake:
- Smashing too hard makes them fall apart.
- Smashing too lightly prevents crispiness.
✔️ Fix:
- Aim for ½-inch thickness—thin enough to crisp, thick enough to stay fluffy inside.
- Use a flat-bottomed glass, fork, or potato masher for even pressure.
4. Skipping the Flip
❌ Mistake:
- Not flipping the potatoes halfway through baking = one side crispy, one side soggy.
✔️ Fix:
- Flip them at the 10-12 minute mark to ensure even crispiness on both sides.
5. Not Using High Enough Heat
❌ Mistake:
- Baking at a low temperature results in soft, chewy potatoes instead of crispy ones.
✔️ Fix:
- Bake at 425°F (218°C) for the crispiest results.
- Broil for 3-5 minutes at the end for an extra crunch.
FAQs on Making the Best Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Before we wrap up, let’s answer some of the most frequently asked questions about smashed potatoes. These tips will help you troubleshoot any issues and perfect your recipe!
Smashed potatoes are whole, boiled potatoes that are lightly crushed and roasted until crispy.
Mashed potatoes are completely blended with butter, milk, and cream for a smooth, fluffy texture.
Smashed potatoes keep their rustic, crispy edges, while mashed potatoes are soft and creamy.
Use baby potatoes – They have thinner skin, which crisps up better.
Boil just until fork-tender – Overcooked potatoes can turn mushy.
Smash to ½-inch thickness – Thin enough to crisp, thick enough to stay fluffy inside.
Coat with olive oil & butter – The combo gives the best crisp and flavor.
Bake at 425°F (218°C) – High heat is key!
Broil for the last 3-5 minutes – This creates extra crispiness.
Baby Yukon Gold – Best for a crispy outside and creamy inside.
Red Potatoes – Holds shape well and gets crispy.
Fingerling Potatoes – Small and great for roasting.
❌ Avoid Russet Potatoes – Too starchy and can fall apart when smashed.
No! The skin helps them get crispy and adds a delicious texture. Just wash them well before boiling.
Conclusion & Final Tips
Crispy smashed potatoes are one of the easiest and most delicious side dishes you can make. With their golden, crispy edges and soft, fluffy interior, they pair well with almost any meal and can be customized with a variety of seasonings, dips, and toppings.
Final Tips for the Best Smashed Potatoes:
Choose the right potatoes – Baby Yukon Gold, red potatoes, or fingerlings work best.
Boil just until fork-tender – Overcooking can make them fall apart.
Smash evenly – About ½-inch thick for the perfect texture.
Use both olive oil & butter – Olive oil for crispiness, butter for flavor.
Bake at high heat (425°F) – The key to getting that golden-brown crust.
Broil at the end – For an extra-crispy finish.
Don’t forget to flip – This ensures crispiness on both sides.
Whether you enjoy them as a side dish, a snack, or an appetizer, these crispy smashed potatoes are sure to be a hit! Try different seasoning variations and pair them with your favorite dipping sauces for even more flavor.