Smashed Potatoes with Garlic and Herb Butter

There’s something about a rainy afternoon that just calls for the embrace of cozy food. Picture this: the gentle sound of rain tapping against the window while the rich aroma of garlic wafts through the house. That’s the magic moment when my love affair with Smashed Potatoes with Garlic and Herb Butter began. I remember one particularly dreary day when my kitchen transformed into a haven of warmth and comfort. As I boiled the charming little baby potatoes, I could hardly wait to create that irresistible crust paired with the creamy, herb-infused butter.

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Each crunch of those crispy potatoes took me right back to childhood, when my mom would whip up her version of this dish, making the kitchen smell heavenly. And let me tell you, one taste and you’ll understand why they’ve made it to my permanent recipe collection. These smashed potatoes are not just a side; they’re a celebration of warmth, flavor, and a hug for your taste buds. Trust me, your kitchen will thank you for this cozy dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks, you can whip these up with minimal fuss.
• Quick Cooking Time: With just about 30 minutes from prep to plate, you can enjoy your tasty creation in no time!
• Healthier Twist: Baby potatoes offer fiber and nutrients while still feeling indulgent.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Garlic and herb butter? Need I say more? Everyone will be begging for more!
• Versatile Side Dish: These beauties pair wonderfully with various main dishes, from grilled meats to veggie burgers.

Ingredients

• Baby Potatoes: These tender little gems have a naturally creamy texture. Look for small ones that are all about uniformity for even cooking.
• Garlic: Oh, the aroma! Freshly minced garlic adds depth and that delightful touch of warmth that’ll have your friends flocking to your kitchen.
• Herb Butter: A lovely blend of butter, fresh herbs like parsley or chives—this is what dreams are made of. You can make your own or pick up some from the store!
• Salt: Essential for elevating all those lovely flavors. Opt for sea salt for a little extra crunch.
• Pepper: A sprinkle of fresh cracked pepper adds a gentle warmth and kick to your dish.
• Olive Oil: Perfect for achieving that golden, crispy exterior.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

1. Boil the Baby Potatoes

Boil those little potatoes in salted water until they’re fork-tender—about 15-20 minutes. The smell of the sea salt bubbling away will whisk you to a cozy beachside shack.

2. Drain and Let Them Cool Slightly

Drain your potatoes and let them cool a bit. We want them to be warm, but not too hot to handle. You can use this time to sip on a cup of tea or catch up on your favorite playlist.

3. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is the magic number for getting that perfect crispy bottom while keeping the insides fluffy and delicious.

4. Smash ‘Em

Place the boiled potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and give each one a gentle smash with a fork. You want to flatten them just enough for that crispy edge while still holding some of their shape. Get fun with it!

5. Oil and Season

Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. The sizzle when they hit the pan is like a gentle “I’m ready!” from the oven.

6. Top with Garlic and Herb Butter

Now the best part—top each potato with that dreamy garlic and herb butter. Just wait for the aromas to dance around your kitchen; I promise it will be mouthwatering!

7. Roast Away

Roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy. Flip them halfway for even baking and to maximize that crunch!

Pro Tips for Success

• Use a fork for smashing to create more texture and edges. More edges = more crispiness!
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give these potatoes some space to breathe and get that glorious crunch.
• Feel free to experiment with different herbs in your butter—thyme or rosemary work wonders!

Flavor Variations

• Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or cheddar on top before roasting.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a subtle heat.
• Seasonal Twists: Incorporate seasonal herbs or even citrus zest for a refreshing twist. Lemon and dill in the summer brings brightness!

Serving Suggestions

These smashed potatoes are a superstar side! Serve them alongside grilled chicken, roasted veggies, or alongside a perfectly seared steak. For plating, stack the potatoes in a rustic pile, drizzling some extra garlic herb butter on top for that extra ‘wow’ factor. A glass of chilled white wine or a simple sparkling water with lemon would be just the thing to elevate your dinner!

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can prep the potatoes a day ahead! Just boil and smash them, storing them in the fridge until you’re ready to roast. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Leftovers

Leftover smashed potatoes can happily transform into breakfast hash! Just toss in some eggs and any leftover veggies you have around for a cozy brunch.

Freezing

I recommend against freezing them once they’ve been cooked as their delightful texture might suffer, but you can boil and smash them, freeze the uncooked potatoes, and roast straight from frozen!

Reheating

The best way to reheat smashed potatoes is in the oven to keep that cherished crispiness—just pop them on a baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Want to speed things up? A quick stint in the microwave will work too, but you might miss out on that crunch!

FAQs

Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind you may need to adjust the cooking time based on the size of the potatoes.

Can I make garlic herb butter in advance?
Of course! Prepare your herb butter and keep it in the fridge for up to a week or freeze it for longer storage.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Serve it with caution if you are dining with gluten-sensitive guests.

What if I don’t have garlic?
You can easily replace it with garlic powder or use other flavorful spices like onion powder to keep the taste lively.

Final Thoughts

Oh dear friends, these Smashed Potatoes with Garlic and Herb Butter are truly a celebration of coziness in every bite! I hope you find as much joy in making and sharing this dish as I have. Whip them up on a chilly evening or bring them out at your next gathering—either way, they’re sure to bring warmth and delight to your table. Happy cooking, and keep vibing with your kitchen creations! ❤️