Crispy Garlic Smashed Potatoes are the side dish you never knew you needed! These little potatoes will steal the show at your dinner table. With a perfect crunch and rich garlic flavor, they pair well with just about anything. I’ll guide you through each simple step, plus share tips for making them extra crispy. Get ready to elevate your meals with this easy, delicious recipe. Let's dive in!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Crispy Texture: The smashing technique creates a wonderfully crispy exterior, making every bite a delightful crunch.
- Flavorful Garlic Oil: The combination of garlic, rosemary, and thyme infuses the potatoes with an aromatic and savory flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Quick Preparation: With a prep time of just 10 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Versatile Side Dish: These crispy garlic smashed potatoes pair well with a variety of main courses, from grilled meats to vegetarian dishes.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 6 cloves of garlic, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary leaves, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnishing)
The star of this dish is the baby potatoes. Their small size makes them perfect for smashing. They cook quickly and get crispy on the edges. I love using extra virgin olive oil because it adds rich flavor. The minced garlic creates a welcoming aroma that fills your kitchen.
Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme add depth. They brighten up the potatoes and bring out their natural taste. Sea salt enhances all these flavors, while black pepper adds a touch of warmth. If you want some heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes. For a final touch, fresh parsley looks great and tastes fresh.
Gathering these ingredients makes cooking fun. Each one plays a role in creating crispy garlic smashed potatoes. You will enjoy the process and the delicious results.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 450°F (230°C). Preheating is key for crispy potatoes. It helps them cook evenly and get that perfect crunch. If you skip this step, your potatoes may turn out soggy instead of crispy.
Boil the Potatoes
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add salt to the water for flavor. Carefully add 1.5 lbs of baby potatoes and cook for about 15-20 minutes. Check doneness by piercing a potato with a fork. It should go in easily when they are ready. Drain the potatoes in a colander and let them sit for a few minutes.
Prepare the Garlic Herb Oil
In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, 4 tablespoons of olive oil, chopped rosemary, thyme, sea salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Stir well until it becomes a fragrant oil. This mix gives the potatoes an amazing flavor. Even coating is important, so every bite tastes great.
Smash and Roast the Potatoes
Place the drained potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use a sturdy glass or potato masher to gently smash each potato. You want them flattened but not broken. Bake the potatoes in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them, checking for crispy, golden edges. This is where the magic happens!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Maximum Crispiness
To get that perfect crunch on your crispy garlic smashed potatoes, you need to smash them just right. Use the bottom of a sturdy glass or a potato masher. Press down gently until they flatten but stay intact. This method allows more surface area for crispiness.
When it comes to oven placement, put the baking sheet in the middle of the oven. This spot lets the heat circulate evenly. If your oven has a convection setting, use it! It helps the potatoes crisp up even better.
Flavor Enhancements
Want to jazz up the flavor? You can add more spices and herbs. Try a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky touch. Fresh chives or dill can also add a nice twist. Mix and match to find your favorite.
For serving sauces, consider a creamy garlic aioli or a zesty yogurt sauce. These dips complement the crispy potatoes well. You can also drizzle some balsamic glaze for a sweet contrast.
Pro Tips
- Perfectly Cooked Potatoes: Ensure your potatoes are uniformly sized for even cooking. If you have larger ones, consider halving them to match the smaller ones.
- Smashing Technique: Use a gentle, even pressure when smashing the potatoes to maintain their structure. This helps them get crispy without falling apart.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like oregano or basil to customize the flavor of your garlic herb oil.
- Serving Suggestions: These potatoes pair wonderfully with sour cream or a yogurt-based dip. Consider serving them as a side with grilled meats for a complete meal!
Variations
Different Potato Types
You can use different types of potatoes for this dish. Red potatoes or Yukon Golds work well. They have a creamy texture and hold up nicely when smashed. If you use larger potatoes, you should cut them into smaller pieces. This helps them cook evenly. Adjust cooking times too; larger pieces may need a few extra minutes in the pot. Always check with a fork to see if they are tender.
Flavor Infusions
You can change the herbs to suit your taste. For a fresh twist, try using basil or dill instead of rosemary and thyme. Each herb brings a unique flavor. You can also add cheese for a rich topping. Crumbled feta or shredded cheddar works great. Just sprinkle the cheese on top before the final baking. This adds a delicious layer of flavor to your crispy garlic smashed potatoes. Remember to experiment and find your favorite combinations!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your crispy garlic smashed potatoes fresh, store them in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container to prevent moisture. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure they are cool before sealing. This helps keep the potatoes crispy for longer.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, use the oven for best results. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes until hot and crispy. If you want, add a drizzle of olive oil before reheating. This helps restore some crunch. Alternatively, you can use an air fryer. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5-7 minutes. Enjoy your leftovers just like fresh!
FAQs
Can I use larger potatoes?
Yes, you can use larger potatoes. You will need to adjust the cooking time. Larger potatoes may take about 25-30 minutes to boil, so check them with a fork. Once they are tender, drain them and let them cool. Smash them gently, just like smaller ones. The key is to ensure they cook through before roasting.
How to make them vegan?
Making these potatoes vegan is easy! You can substitute olive oil with avocado oil or any other plant-based oil. If you want to add flavor, try using nutritional yeast instead of cheese. Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme work perfectly in vegan dishes. You still get great taste without any animal products.
What to serve with crispy garlic smashed potatoes?
Crispy garlic smashed potatoes pair well with many dishes. They go great with grilled chicken, steak, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve them with a fresh salad or soup for a complete meal. Consider adding a creamy dip or sauce to enhance the flavors. This way, you create a balanced and satisfying dinner that everyone will enjoy.
In this post, we explored how to make crispy garlic smashed potatoes. We covered ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for perfect results. You can enhance flavors and try different potato types. Store leftovers properly to keep them fresh. Reheating can restore their crispiness, so follow the right methods. Enjoy these potatoes as a side dish or a main event. Now, you have all the tools to create a tasty treat that friends and family will love. Happy cooking!
