The crunch of golden, crispy smashed potatoes sprinkled with fresh herbs is a texture and flavor dream come true. Let me tell you, this recipe has been a game-changer in my kitchen. I remember the first time I served these at a family dinner, and they disappeared faster than I could say “pass the potatoes!” With their irresistible crispiness and the vibrant touch of fresh herbs, they’re perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.
If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably tried dozens of potato recipes, but trust me—this one’s a keeper. The secret? Boiling the potatoes first for fluffy insides, smashing them just right, and then roasting them to crispy perfection. It’s like having the best of both worlds: tender and creamy inside with a golden, crunchy exterior. Plus, the fresh herbs add a pop of flavor that makes every bite feel special.
Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish or a fun appetizer to serve with dipping sauces, these crispy smashed potatoes are the answer. You won’t believe how simple they are to make, and honestly, they’re so good you might skip the main course altogether!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Crispy: The roasting technique ensures every bite has that addictive crunch you’ll crave.
- Simple Ingredients: You only need potatoes, olive oil, and a handful of fresh herbs—no fancy shopping trips required.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner, holiday feast, or backyard barbecue, these potatoes fit right in.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the flavors with your favorite herbs and seasonings.
- Fun to Make: Smashing the potatoes is oddly satisfying—like stress relief in the kitchen!
- Guaranteed Crowd-Pleaser: These always get rave reviews, even from picky eaters.
What sets this recipe apart is the technique. Parboiling the potatoes beforehand ensures they’re soft and easy to smash, while roasting them at high heat locks in the crunch. Tossing them in olive oil with a sprinkle of salt creates that golden crust, and the fresh herbs add brightness and freshness to every bite.
If you’re after comfort food that feels just a little bit elevated (but still super approachable), this is it. The combination of textures and flavors is guaranteed to make these potatoes the star of your meal.
What Ingredients You Will Need
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry and fridge. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Baby potatoes: Red or yellow work best—they have thin skins and cook quickly.
- Olive oil: Choose a good-quality olive oil for the best flavor and crispiness.
- Kosher salt: Perfect for seasoning the potatoes evenly.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to the flavor profile.
- Garlic powder: A quick way to add depth and savory notes.
- Fresh herbs: Parsley, chives, and thyme work beautifully, but feel free to mix and match based on what you have (rosemary is fantastic too!).
Optional extras:
- Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle on top before roasting for an extra layer of flavor.
- Chili flakes: For a bit of heat if you enjoy a spicy kick.
If you’re missing any of these, don’t worry—this recipe is forgiving! You can easily swap herbs or seasonings to suit your preferences.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot: For boiling the potatoes.
- Baking sheet: A sturdy one ensures even roasting.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Potato masher or sturdy fork: You’ll use this to smash the potatoes (a flat-bottomed glass works too).
- Tongs or spatula: For flipping and serving your crispy potatoes.
If you don’t have parchment paper, you can use aluminum foil lightly brushed with oil. A heavy-duty baking sheet is ideal for getting that crisp texture—trust me, investing in one is worth it!
Preparation Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly and place them in a large pot. Cover with cold water and add a generous pinch of salt.
- Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and let them cool slightly.
- Arrange the cooked potatoes on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
- Using a potato masher or the bottom of a glass, gently press down on each potato until it flattens but remains intact.
- Drizzle olive oil generously over the smashed potatoes, making sure each one is well-coated.
- Season with kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Sprinkle fresh herbs over the top.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with more fresh herbs before serving. Enjoy hot!
Cooking Tips & Techniques
- Boil the potatoes just until fork-tender—overcooking can make them fall apart when smashing.
- Smash gently! Too much pressure can cause the potatoes to crumble instead of holding their shape.
- For extra crispiness, use a convection oven setting if available.
- Don’t skimp on the olive oil—it’s the key to achieving that golden crust.
- Want even more crunch? Turn the broiler on for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, but keep an eye on them!
Trust me, once you get the hang of smashing and roasting, you’ll be making these potatoes on repeat. They’re fail-proof and oh-so-satisfying!
Variations & Adaptations
- Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan over the potatoes before roasting.
- Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or smoked paprika for a bit of heat.
- Herby Overload: Mix fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and dill for a more complex flavor.
- Vegan Option: Skip the cheese and use plant-based butter if desired.
- Garlic Lovers: Roast minced garlic alongside the potatoes for an extra punch.
I once tried adding lemon zest and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving, and it made the dish feel even brighter and refreshing—perfect for summer meals.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
Serve these crispy smashed potatoes hot and fresh, straight out of the oven. They pair beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. For a fun twist, serve them alongside a variety of dipping sauces like garlic aioli, ranch, or spicy ketchup.
If you have leftovers (unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Nutritional Information & Benefits
Here’s an estimate of the nutritional breakdown per serving (based on using olive oil, herbs, and no cheese):
- Calories: Approximately 160
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 7g
Potatoes are a great source of potassium, which supports heart health and muscle function. Olive oil adds healthy fats, while fresh herbs provide vitamins and antioxidants. This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for vegan diets—just skip the cheese.
Conclusion
Crispy smashed potatoes with herbs are the ultimate comfort food—simple to make, packed with flavor, and so versatile. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, they’re a guaranteed hit.
I love this recipe because it’s one of those dishes that feels special without requiring a ton of effort. Plus, smashing potatoes is just plain fun! Give it a try, and let me know how you adapt it to your tastes. Sprinkle more herbs, try new spices, or add a cheesy topping—it’s all delicious.
Leave a comment below with your favorite potato toppings or share your experience making this recipe. I’d love to hear from you!
FAQs
Can I use larger potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use larger potatoes, but they may need longer boiling and roasting times. Just cut them into smaller pieces before boiling to speed up the process.
Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can boil and smash the potatoes ahead of time, then roast them just before serving for maximum crispiness.
What herbs work best for this recipe?
Parsley, thyme, chives, and rosemary are all great options. You can mix and match to suit your taste.
How do I keep the potatoes from sticking to the pan?
Use parchment paper or lightly grease the baking sheet with oil to prevent sticking.
Are smashed potatoes healthy?
Yes! They’re packed with nutrients like potassium and fiber. Using olive oil and fresh herbs keeps the dish light and flavorful.
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Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Herbs
Golden, crispy smashed potatoes sprinkled with fresh herbs are a texture and flavor dream come true. Perfect for any occasion, these potatoes are tender inside and irresistibly crunchy outside.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes (red or yellow)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp fresh herbs (parsley, chives, thyme, or rosemary)
- Optional: 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese
- Optional: 1/4 tsp chili flakes
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly and place them in a large pot. Cover with cold water and add a generous pinch of salt.
- Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and let them cool slightly.
- Arrange the cooked potatoes on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
- Using a potato masher or the bottom of a glass, gently press down on each potato until it flattens but remains intact.
- Drizzle olive oil generously over the smashed potatoes, making sure each one is well-coated.
- Season with kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Sprinkle fresh herbs over the top.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with more fresh herbs before serving. Enjoy hot!
Notes
[‘Boil the potatoes just until fork-tender to prevent them from falling apart when smashing.’, ‘Use a convection oven setting for extra crispiness.’, ‘Turn the broiler on for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking for added crunch.’]
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 6-8 sm
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 240
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 20
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 2
Keywords: crispy smashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, herb potatoes, easy side dish, gluten-free, vegan option
