If you are on the hunt for a snack or side dish that checks all the boxes—crispy, golden, and bursting with flavor—you have to try this Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe. It has become my absolute go-to when I want the perfect balance of crunchy edges and fluffy inside, with a buttery, savory punch that makes every bite irresistible. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these potatoes elevate the humble spud to new heights and will quickly become one of your favorites too.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is a breeze with this Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe because each one is simple but fundamental. They blend perfectly to create that sought-after crispy texture with rich buttery notes and just the right kick of seasoning.
- Small potatoes (700g / 1.4 lb, about 12–14): Choose tender, waxy varieties that hold their shape well and offer an ideal surface for smashing.
- Medium potatoes (1–1.2kg / 2–2.4 lb, about 6–8): A good addition if you want a mix of textures—some fluffier interiors paired with ultra-crispy outsides.
- Salt (1 tbsp for boiling): Essential for seasoning the potatoes from within during cooking.
- Unsalted butter (30g / 2 tbsp, melted): Adds a luscious richness that helps create that golden, irresistible crust.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Enhances crispiness and delivers a subtle fruity depth to each bite.
- Salt (3/4 tsp, for sprinkling): Balances and intensifies flavors post-cooking.
- Black pepper (1/4 tsp): Gives a mild spice that complements the butter and oil perfectly.
- Fresh parsley (finely chopped, optional): A bright herbal note that lends color and freshness when sprinkled on top.
How to Make Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes to Tender Perfection
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt seasons the potatoes internally while cooking. Add your small and medium potatoes and cook until they are tender through—small should take about 20 to 25 minutes, and medium closer to 30. It’s perfectly fine if some skins split because it will only help create more crunchy edges later. You can also streamline this step using steam or microwave methods if you prefer—both work wonderfully.
Step 2: Prepare Your Oven
While the potatoes cook, preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) or 180°C if you’re using a fan oven. This high heat is crucial for developing that golden crunch we’re after in the Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe.
Step 3: Dry the Potatoes
Once the potatoes are cooked through, drain them well and let them rest in a colander for about five minutes. This step removes excess moisture on the surface, which is the secret to kicking off a wonderfully crisp finish.
Step 4: Smash with Love
Transfer the potatoes onto a baking tray and gently press each one down using a large fork or potato masher. The key here is to keep them in one piece while flattening them—the thinner, the crisper the edges will be. Don’t worry if your smashed potatoes look rustic and a little uneven; those charming nubbly surfaces are where all the magic happens.
Step 5: Steam Dry Again to Boost Crispiness
Leave the smashed potatoes on the tray for another five minutes to steam dry. This extra drying time on the baking tray will help ensure every bite turns out ultra crispy, just as you want with this special Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe.
Step 6: Drizzle with Butter and Olive Oil
Now for the flavor punch—drizzle the melted butter over each potato, then follow up with olive oil. These fats not only add richness but also help brown the potatoes gloriously. Before baking, sprinkle the potatoes evenly with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance every mouthwatering bite.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Crunchy
Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for around 45 minutes if using small potatoes or up to 55 minutes for the medium ones. Resist the urge to flip them; the bottom side will crisp perfectly as is. When done, you’ll have beautiful, deep golden crispy potatoes ready to wow your guests or family.
Step 8: Serve While Hot and Fresh
Once out of the oven, sprinkle with finely chopped parsley if you like a fresh pop of color and herbaceous aroma. Serve these beauties hot to experience the perfect combination of crunchy edges and soft, fluffy interiors we all crave from an Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe.
How to Serve Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is a classic finish that brightens the rich flavors and adds inviting color. For an extra treat, try grated Parmesan or a dusting of smoked paprika to spice things up.
Side Dishes
Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes pair beautifully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even a vibrant salad for a lighter meal. They also make a hearty side to accompany your favorite dips or sauces, turning any meal into a satisfying feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the potatoes stacked on a rustic wooden board with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of garlic aioli on the side. For parties, mini skewers piercing through each potato make delightful finger food, perfect for mingling guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Although the crispy texture may soften slightly, you can easily restore some crunch with proper reheating.
Freezing
While this recipe tastes best fresh, you can freeze the cooked potatoes. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer bags. Use within one month for optimal flavor and texture.
Reheating
To bring back that unbeatable crispiness, reheat leftovers in a hot oven at 200°C (390°F) for 10–15 minutes. Avoid microwaving, which tends to make them soggy. A quick warm-up in the oven restores their delightful crunch perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use large potatoes for this recipe?
Large potatoes can be used but may take longer to cook and might be harder to smash evenly. Medium or small waxy potatoes are preferred for the ideal texture and ease of smashing in this Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe.
Is it necessary to steam dry the potatoes twice?
Yes, steaming dry the potatoes both after boiling and after smashing helps remove moisture that prevents them from crisping fully during baking. It’s a little step that makes all the difference.
Can I add herbs or spices before baking?
Absolutely! Feel free to sprinkle garlic powder, rosemary, or thyme before baking to infuse more flavor layers. The simple seasoning in this Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe is a base ready for customization.
What if I don’t have unsalted butter?
You can substitute salted butter but reduce the amount of added salt accordingly so your potatoes don’t end up too salty. The butter is essential for richness and helps achieve that crispy crust.
Are these potatoes gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, making this Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe an excellent option for gluten-sensitive folks looking for a tasty side.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and exciting about serving a batch of these Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe beauties fresh from the oven. I hope you dive in and savor the crispy edges and fluffy centers that make them so special. They’re wonderfully simple to make but bring so much joy to the table—your friends and family will thank you for sharing this golden, tasty tradition!
Print
Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes are a deliciously crunchy twist on classic boiled potatoes. Soft on the inside and golden-crispy on the outside, these potatoes are boiled, smashed, and oven-baked to perfection with a buttery olive oil drizzle and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Perfect as a side dish or a snack, garnished optionally with fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 700g / 1.4 lb small potatoes (12 – 14 pieces)
- 1 – 1.2kg / 2 – 2.4 lb medium potatoes (6 – 8 pieces)
Boiling and Seasoning
- 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
- 3/4 tsp salt (for sprinkling)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Fats
- 30g / 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Garnish (optional)
- Finely chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook Potatoes: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoon of salt. Add the potatoes to the boiling water and cook until they are soft. Small potatoes take about 20 to 25 minutes, while medium-sized potatoes take around 30 minutes. The skins may split, which is normal. Alternatively, you can steam or microwave the potatoes.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) or 180°C (fan oven).
- Steam Dry After Boiling: Drain the boiled potatoes and place them in a colander to dry for about 5 minutes. This helps remove excess moisture for crispier results.
- Smash Potatoes: Place the potatoes on a baking tray. Using a large fork or potato masher, gently press down on each potato to flatten it while keeping it in one piece. The thinner you smash, the crispier the potatoes will be; thicker smashed potatoes have fluffier interiors. More surface texture means better crunch!
- Steam Dry Again: Leave the smashed potatoes on the tray for another 5 minutes to allow them to steam dry further, enhancing crispiness.
- Drizzle Fats and Season: Drizzle the melted butter and olive oil evenly over the potatoes. Sprinkle with 3/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper for flavor.
- Bake: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes if using small potatoes, or up to 55 minutes for medium potatoes. Bake until the potatoes are deep golden brown and crispy. Do not flip them during baking.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with finely chopped parsley for a fresh, colorful finish.
Notes
- Using potatoes of similar size within each batch ensures even cooking.
- You can steam or microwave potatoes if short on time, but boiling yields the best texture.
- Adjust the smashing thickness based on your preferred crunchiness.
- Do not flip the potatoes in the oven; this helps create the crispiest bottom layer.
- Butter adds richness while olive oil aids in crisping and flavor.
- Parsley is optional but adds a nice fresh finish.
