Irresistibly Crispy Garlic Smashed Potatoes You’ll Crave Every Time

Crispy Garlic Smashed Potatoes are the epitome of comfort food. Imagine golden-brown, crispy exteriors giving way to fluffy, tender insides, all generously coated in aromatic, fragrant garlic. The moment you take a bite, the delightful combination of textures and flavors dances on your palate. The smell wafting through your kitchen as they roast is nothing short of intoxicating, pulling friends and family towards the table with mouths watering in anticipation. These potatoes are the kind of dish you want to make for gatherings, cozy family dinners, or even just as a treat for yourself during a quiet weeknight.

The beauty of Crispy Garlic Smashed Potatoes is in their simplicity, yet they never fail to impress. Perfectly seasoned with just the right amount of salt, pepper, and fresh parsley, they are versatile enough to serve with nearly any meal. Whether paired with grilled meats or enjoyed as a standalone snack, Crispy Garlic Smashed Potatoes are destined to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something about this Crispy Garlic Smashed Potatoes recipe that truly stands out. Here’s why you will love making them:

• The delightful crunch of the exterior pairs beautifully with the fluffiness inside, creating a mouthwatering texture.
• Garlic adds a robust flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes, making each bite irresistible.
• The recipe is simple and requires minimal ingredients, making it an accessible choice for cooks of all levels.
• With quick prep and cook times, these potatoes can be whipped up even on busy weeknights.
• The results are always satisfying and comforting—perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

How to Make Crispy Garlic Smashed Potatoes

Making Crispy Garlic Smashed Potatoes is a straightforward process that anyone can master, and it starts with boiling those lovely baby potatoes.

First things first, go ahead and preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). This ensures that when your potatoes are ready, your oven is piping hot and ready to work its magic.

Next, toss your baby potatoes into a pot of salted water and bring it to a boil. Allow them to cook until tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when you can easily pierce them with a fork.

Once they’re cooked through, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. This is important because you don’t want to burn your hands during the next step!

Now here comes the fun part—placing those potatoes on a baking sheet and smashing them gently until they’re slightly flattened. This is the part when it starts to smell amazing! Drizzle them with olive oil, then sprinkle on the minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Don’t be shy with that seasoning—it’s what will make these potatoes come to life.

Roast them in that hot oven for about 25-30 minutes until they turn crispy and golden brown, creating a mouthwatering contrast. You’ll notice the edges turning golden and crispy, and you might already be drooling at this point. Finally, garnish your crispy smashed potatoes with fresh parsley before serving. For a little added flair, consider serving them with your favorite dipping sauce.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds baby potatoes
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

When it comes to Crispy Garlic Smashed Potatoes, the ingredients are simple yet impactful. The baby potatoes are the stars, possessing just the right size and texture for this dish. Their naturally creamy flesh makes them perfect for smashing. Olive oil plays a crucial role, lending not just flavor but also enabling that beautiful golden crispiness during roasting. Garlic, of course, is the flavor hero, providing a savory punch that elevates the entire dish.

If you don’t have baby potatoes on hand, you can easily substitute them with regular potatoes; just cut them into chunks. In terms of olive oil, feel free to experiment with flavored oils or even butter (for a richer taste) if you prefer.

Directions

Let’s dive into the steps for crafting these delicious Crispy Garlic Smashed Potatoes.

Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). This high temperature will allow your potatoes to roast to that perfect crispy state, so don’t skip this step!

While your oven is heating up, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Toss in the baby potatoes and boil them until they’re tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. You’ll want to start checking them around the 15-minute mark—just pierce one with a fork to see if it’s ready.

Once your potatoes are cooked, drain them and give them a few minutes to cool off. You don’t want to burn yourself while smashing!

Now, place the potatoes on a baking sheet, and using a flat surface (a fork or the bottom of a cup will work), gently smash each potato until it flattens slightly, but be careful not to completely obliterate them! Lay them out comfortably on the baking sheet.

This is the fun part: drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil, then sprinkle over the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Give them a good toss to ensure every potato is coated in that yummy goodness.

Now it’s time to roast! Pop your baking sheet into the hot oven and let them roast for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them—this is when you’ll notice the edges start to turn golden brown and crispy.

When they’re beautifully roasted, take them out and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. You can also give them a quick taste at this stage to check the seasoning balance.

How to Serve Crispy Garlic Smashed Potatoes

Crispy Garlic Smashed Potatoes are incredibly versatile and perfect for any occasion. Serve them as a comforting side dish for a family dinner, brunch, or even at a holiday gathering. Their golden, crispy exterior and bright green parsley garnish make for an appetizing presentation that instantly brings life to your plate.

Feel free to plate them in a rustic fashion; scatter them on a platter with a drizzle of extra olive oil or sprinkle of flaky sea salt. You can also pair them with dipping sauces like garlic aioli, sour cream, or even a zesty salsa. The crispy texture and savory flavor will have everyone reaching for seconds—if not thirds!

How to Store Crispy Garlic Smashed Potatoes

If you find yourself with leftovers (or if you’re making a double batch to ensure you have some for later), storing your Crispy Garlic Smashed Potatoes is easy. Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to help regain their crispy texture.

You can also freeze any leftovers if you’d rather prolong their life. Just ensure they are fully cooled before placing in a freezer-safe bag or container. They should stay fresh for about 2-3 months. Upon reheat, the oven method works best, but you can also use a microwave for a faster warm-up.

For a warm and comforting bowl that soothes on chilly nights, try the Easy Slow Cooker Potato Soup — creamy, simple and soul-warming.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Garlic Smashed Potatoes

Achieving the perfect Crispy Garlic Smashed Potatoes is all about a few small yet impactful tips and tricks:

• Make sure to boil your potatoes until they are fork-tender but not overcooked, as this can lead to mushy potatoes and make them difficult to smash.
• When smashing, aim for a gentle flattening—not pureed! The goal is to create a lovely surface area for that crispy finish.
• Don’t forget to season properly with salt and pepper—this makes all the difference in flavor.
• Experiment with different oils and spices. A drizzle of truffle oil before serving adds a gourmet touch, and herbs like rosemary or thyme enhance the flavor beautifully.
• Lastly, give them enough space on the baking sheet to allow air to circulate; overcrowding can prevent that delightful crispiness.

For a hearty, satisfy-late dinner that hits all the comfort-food notes, try the Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteaks — juicy, cheesy and perfect for sharing.

Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are a few creative twists you can try with your Crispy Garlic Smashed Potatoes:

• Cheesy Garlic Smashed Potatoes: Sprinkle shredded cheese (like parmesan or cheddar) over the potatoes during the last few minutes of roasting for a delicious cheesy crust.
• Herb-Infused Potatoes: Mix in herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives along with the garlic—instead of just parsley at the end—to infuse the potatoes with additional flavors.
• Spicy Smashed Potatoes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle the finished potatoes with a spicy aioli for those who enjoy a little heat.
• Dairy-Free Option: For a vegan twist, simply skip any cheese or use nondairy butter and oil for the ultimate crispy experience without any animal products.

FAQs

Can I use larger potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes are preferred for their size and tenderness, larger potatoes can be cut into quarters or chunks to achieve a similar result. Just ensure they are cooked through before smashing.

What kind of dipping sauces work well with these potatoes?
The options are endless! Try serving them with garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or even a zesty chimichurri. The key is to complement that garlicky flavor with something that enhances it without overpowering.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can boil the potatoes in advance and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply smash, season, and roast them. This makes preparing a meal much easier, especially when entertaining.

Why does the garlic burn while roasting?
If the garlic is placed on the potatoes for the entire roasting time, it can burn. To avoid this, consider adding garlic during the last 10-15 minutes of roasting or simply mix it into the olive oil beforehand.

For a sauce that brings bold, creamy flavor to any burger, try the Creamy Big Mac Sauce — rich, tangy and totally craveable.

Let the inspiration continue. Find more delicious ideas on Pinterest and Medium.

Conclusion

Crispy Garlic Smashed Potatoes are more than just a side dish; they’re a comforting embrace on a plate. Perfect for serving at any gathering or simply enjoying on your own, these potatoes are bound to become a cherished recipe in your kitchen.

I encourage you to give this recipe a try; the combination of crispy, tender, and garlicky flavors will have your loved ones raving! If you love these Crispy Garlic Smashed Potatoes, save it for later or share it with someone who’d enjoy it too. Happy cooking!