If you’re looking for the ultimate smashed potatoes recipe, you’re in the right place. These crispy smashed potatoes are everything a perfect side dish should be: golden and crunchy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and loaded with rich garlic butter flavor.
Unlike classic mashed or roasted potatoes, smashed potatoes give you the best of both worlds — texture, flavor, and simplicity — all without complicated steps or fancy ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, a holiday spread, or just craving comfort food, this recipe delivers every single time.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to make smashed potatoes that turn out perfectly crispy, plus expert tips, variations, and answers to the most common questions people ask online.
Table of Contents
What Are Smashed Potatoes?
Smashed potatoes are whole baby potatoes that are boiled until tender, gently flattened, then baked until crispy. Instead of mashing them completely, you “smash” them just enough to create uneven edges — which is exactly what makes them so crispy in the oven.
This method transforms simple potatoes into a texture-packed side dish that’s far more exciting than regular mashed roasted potatoes or basic roasted potatoes.
Why This Is the Best Smashed Potatoes Recipe
This recipe stands out because it focuses on three things:
- Maximum crispiness
- Simple garlic butter flavor
- Easy, repeatable steps anyone can follow
It’s the kind of best smashed potatoes recipe that works whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home cook. No special tools. No complicated timing. Just reliable, crave-worthy results.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these garlic butter smashed potatoes, you’ll need:
- Baby potatoes (Yukon gold or red potatoes)
- Unsalted butter
- Olive oil
- Fresh garlic
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Fresh herbs (rosemary or parsley)
That’s it. Simple ingredients that turn into something incredible.
How to Make Smashed Potatoes (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Place baby potatoes in a large pot, cover with salted water, and boil until fork-tender. This usually takes about 15–20 minutes.
Step 2: Smash the Potatoes
Drain the potatoes and let them steam dry for a few minutes. Place them on a lined baking sheet and gently smash each one using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup.
Step 3: Add Garlic Butter
Melt butter and mix with olive oil and minced garlic. Spoon generously over each smashed potato.
Step 4: Bake Until Crispy
Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 40–45 minutes, flipping once if desired, until the edges are deeply golden and crisp.
This method is what turns baked potatoes smashed into something truly special.
Best Smashed Potatoes Recipe Tips
- Dry potatoes = crispy potatoes
Let excess moisture escape before smashing. - Use both butter and oil
Butter adds flavor, oil boosts crispiness. - Don’t overcrowd the pan
Space helps airflow and browning. - Finish with salt
A final sprinkle enhances texture and taste.
Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes
These garlic butter smashed potatoes are rich, savory, and incredibly satisfying. The butter melts into the cracks of the potatoes, while garlic roasts gently in the oven, creating deep flavor without bitterness.
If you’re new to smashed potatoes, this version is the perfect place to start.
Crispy Garlic Rosemary Smashed Potatoes
For an herby upgrade, add fresh rosemary before baking. Crispy garlic rosemary smashed potatoes pair beautifully with chicken, steak, or fish, and they feel fancy enough for entertaining without extra work.
Rosemary becomes aromatic and crisp in the oven, adding a restaurant-style touch.
Baked Potatoes Smashed vs Mashed Roasted Potatoes
Baked potatoes smashed are flatter, crispier, and more textured than traditional roasted potatoes. Meanwhile, mashed roasted potatoes are soft and creamy but lack crunch.
If texture matters to you — smashed potatoes win every time.
FAQ: People Also Ask About Smashed Potatoes
What potatoes are best for smashed potatoes?
Baby potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best because they hold their shape and have creamy interiors.
How do you make smashed potatoes crispy?
Dry the potatoes well, use oil and butter, and bake at high heat.
Can smashed potatoes be made ahead?
Yes. Boil and smash ahead, then bake just before serving.
Are smashed potatoes better than roasted potatoes?
If you love crispy edges and fluffy centers, smashed potatoes offer more texture.
Can I add cheese to smashed potatoes?
Absolutely. Parmesan or cheddar works beautifully during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Final Thoughts
These crispy smashed potatoes prove that simple ingredients can create unforgettable flavor. Whether you prefer garlic butter smashed potatoes, herb-loaded variations, or ultra-crispy edges, this recipe belongs in your regular rotation.
If you loved this smashed potatoes recipe, be sure to save it, share it, and explore more easy comfort food ideas.
Crispy Smashed Potatoes (Easy Garlic Butter Recipe)
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes Yukon Gold or red potatoes
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp salt plus more to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary or parsley chopped, for garnish
Method
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place baby potatoes in a large pot, cover with salted water, and boil until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and let them steam dry for 5 minutes.
- Transfer potatoes to the baking sheet. Use the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to gently smash each potato flat.
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter, olive oil, and minced garlic. Spoon the mixture evenly over each smashed potato.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Add chopped rosemary if using.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway if desired, until potatoes are golden brown and crispy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or more herbs before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Looking for another cozy potato side? Try my cowboy mashed potato casserole for a cheesy, comfort-food dinner option.