Ultra-Crispy Garlic Smashed Potatoes

There’s something incredibly special about the first time you step into your kitchen and create a dish that warms your heart and fills your home with a delightful aroma. My love affair with Ultra-Crispy Garlic Smashed Potatoes began on a rainy Saturday afternoon, curled up in my cozy kitchen, the sound of raindrops dancing on my roof. I had some baby potatoes sitting in my pantry, remnants of a farmer’s market haul, and I was in the mood for comfort food.

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As I boiled these little gems, the earthy scent wafted through the air, reminding me of warm family dinners and laughter. When it was time to smash them, I felt like an artist preparing a canvas, each potato becoming a unique creation, ready to soak in that rich olive oil and fragrant garlic. The moment they came out of the oven, golden brown and crispy, I could hardly resist diving right in. The first bite was pure bliss—crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, with the irresistible flavor of garlic bringing everything together. Trust me, you’ll love these smashed potatoes just as much as I do!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll be able to whip up these scrumptious potatoes in no time.
• Quick Cooking: Boiling and roasting are all it takes, making this dish perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Full of Flavor: The combination of garlic and olive oil creates a cozy umami experience in every crunchy bite.
• Crowd-Pleasing: These potatoes are perfect for serving at family gatherings or cozy dinners with friends.
• Flexible Recipe: Customize your seasoning and toppings to suit your taste or the seasons.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds baby potatoes
  Tip: The smaller, the better! Baby potatoes are perfect for that lovely crispy exterior and fluffy interior.

• 4 tablespoons olive oil
  Tip: Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for an extra layer of flavor that will elevate your smashed potatoes.

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
  Tip: Freshly minced garlic is a game changer! It brings the most robust flavor; don’t skimp on this!

• Salt and pepper to taste
  Tip: Season generously—this is where the flavors truly shine!

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  Tip: Not only does it add a pop of color, but it also brings a fresh flavor that balances the richness.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Let that warmth fill your kitchen as you prepare for a delicious treat!

2. Boil the Potatoes

In a large pot, boil the baby potatoes in salted water for about 15-20 minutes until they’re fork-tender. This will make them easy to smash while keeping that lovely fluffy texture.

3. Drain and Cool

Once tender, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. You want them warm, but not too hot to handle.

4. Smash the Potatoes

On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, place the potatoes and gently smash each one with a fork or the bottom of a glass. Aim for a nice flat shape, but don’t worry about perfection—each one will have its own character!

5. Season and Oil

Drizzle the olive oil over the smashed potatoes. Sprinkle with minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss them around a bit to ensure every nook and cranny gets that garlic love.

6. Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until crispy and golden brown. Oh, the aromas wafting from the oven will make you weak at the knees!

7. Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce. Pull up a chair and dig in—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Success

• Don’t Skip the Soak: Allow the smashed potatoes to rest a minute before adding your toppings to enhance their flavor.
• Get Creative: Experiment with different oils and spices—the world is your oyster!
• Crowd Control: Make a double batch; they’re sure to disappear quickly!
• Perfect Timing: Keep an eye on them during baking; every oven is a little different, and we want perfection!

Flavor Variations

• Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan or cheddar on top before baking for a cheesy twist.
• Herb Infusion: Try rosemary or thyme mixed in with your garlic for an herby flavor boost.
• Spiced Up: A dash of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika can elevate the flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

These crispy potatoes pair beautifully with almost anything! Try serving them alongside grilled chicken, steak, or roasted veggies. Presentation tip: pile them high on a rustic platter, sprinkle with fresh herbs, and serve with a side of dipping sauce. A crisp white wine or a dark stout beer goes splendidly with this dish!

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can prepare the smashed potatoes ahead of time by boiling and smashing them earlier in the day. Store in the fridge covered with plastic wrap for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, just follow the instructions from the baking step again.

Leftovers

Transform any leftovers into a delicious breakfast hash! Simply pan-fry the smashed potatoes with some eggs, chopped bell peppers, and onions—the perfect way to start your day!

Freezing

While I recommend enjoying these fresh, if you wish to freeze them, let the potatoes cool, then wrap them tightly in freezer-safe bags. When you need them, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Reheating

For the crispiest results, reheat these potatoes in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can also pop them back in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Can I help the potatoes get even crispier?
Absolutely! For an extra crunch, use a potato masher instead of a fork to smash them flatter.

What if I don’t have baby potatoes?
No worries! You can use regular potatoes; just cut them into smaller chunks for even cooking.

Are these potatoes gluten-free?
Yes, they are naturally gluten-free!

How can I make these vegan?
You’re already halfway there! Just ensure your dipping sauce is vegan-friendly, and you’re good to go!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making and sharing these Ultra-Crispy Garlic Smashed Potatoes as I do! They have a magical way of bringing people together, much like a cozy hug on a rainy day. So gather your loved ones, whip up this comforting dish, and remember that the kitchen is a place where love is baked right in. Happy cooking, dear friends! 🍽️💖