1. Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?

Yes! While Yukon Gold, baby potatoes, and red potatoes are best for smashed potatoes, you can also use: ✔ Russet potatoes – They’ll be fluffier inside but may not hold their shape as well. ✔ Fingerling potatoes – A fun alternative with a slightly firmer texture. ✔ Purple potatoes – For a unique look, but they don’t crisp up as much. Best Choice: Small, waxy potatoes work best for crispiness and flavor!

2. Can I Make These Potatoes Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can boil and smash them in advance , then bake them fresh when ready to serve. ✔ Boil & smash up to 2 days ahead , then store in the fridge. ✔ Bake them fresh for the best crispiness . ✔ If fully cooked, reheat in the oven or air fryer to bring back the crunch. Avoid This Mistake: Don’t store fully baked smashed potatoes in the fridge without reheating properly—they can lose their crisp!

3. What Can I Serve with Crispy Smashed Potatoes?

These potatoes go with everything! ✔ Main Dishes: Steak, chicken, fish, pork chops, or veggie burgers. ✔ Dips & Sauces: Garlic aioli, ranch, sriracha mayo, or BBQ sauce. ✔ Brunch Pairing: Eggs, avocado, or smoked salmon. ✔ Salad Options: Arugula & Parmesan, Greek salad, or Caesar salad. Perfect for Any Meal: Use them as a side, a party snack, or even a brunch dish!

4. Can I Make This Recipe Without Parmesan Cheese?

Absolutely! If you want to make dairy-free smashed potatoes , try these alternatives: ✔ Nutritional yeast – For a cheesy, umami flavor. ✔ Panko breadcrumbs – Adds crisp without cheese. ✔ Crushed nuts (almonds or walnuts) – For a nutty crunch. ✔ Vegan Parmesan – A great plant-based substitute. Try This: Mix nutritional yeast with smoked paprika and garlic powder for a cheesy dairy-free seasoning!

5. Can I Add Different Seasonings?

Yes! While classic garlic butter and Parmesan are always a hit, here are some fun variations : ✔ Spicy Cajun: Paprika, chili powder, and cayenne. ✔ Herb & Lemon: Fresh rosemary, thyme, and lemon zest. ✔ Ranch-Style: Garlic powder, onion powder, and dried dill. ✔ Mediterranean: Za’atar seasoning with a drizzle of olive oil. Pro Tip: Add fresh herbs after baking so they don’t burn!

Crispy Smashed Potatoes: 10 Best Amazing Methods for Crunch

Name: 🔥 Ultra-Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs (700g) small potatoes (Yukon Gold, baby potatoes, or red potatoes); 2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil for extra crispiness); 2 tbsp melted butter (or ghee for more flavor); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for added depth); 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for a crispy crust)

Description

These Ultra-Crispy Smashed Potatoes are golden and crunchy on the outside while remaining soft and fluffy on the inside! They’re the perfect side dish for any meal, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special gathering. This foolproof recipe includes pro tips for achieving the crispiest texture, seasoning variations, and serving suggestions. Once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your home!

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 lbs (700g) small potatoes (Yukon Gold, baby potatoes, or red potatoes)
2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil for extra crispiness)
2 tbsp melted butter (or ghee for more flavor)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for added depth)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for a crispy crust)

Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly (keep the skin on for extra crispiness).

2️⃣ Boil the Potatoes

Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with water.
Add a generous pinch of salt and bring to a boil.
Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender.

3️⃣ Dry & Cool

Drain the potatoes and let them sit for 5-10 minutes to release excess moisture.
The drier they are, the crispier they’ll get!

4️⃣ Smash to Perfection

Arrange the potatoes on the prepared baking sheet.
Use a potato masher, flat-bottomed glass, or fork to gently smash them to about ½ inch thick.

5️⃣ Season & Oil

Mix the olive oil, melted butter, garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika in a bowl.
Brush the mixture over the smashed potatoes, ensuring both sides are coated.

6️⃣ Bake Until Crispy

Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
If using Parmesan, sprinkle it on in the last 5 minutes of baking for a golden crust.

7️⃣ Finish & Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!
Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce or as a side to steak, chicken, or seafood.

Notes

✔ Best Potatoes to Use: Small, waxy potatoes (Yukon Gold, red potatoes, or baby potatoes) work best. Avoid starchy Russet potatoes as they may fall apart.
✔ Make-Ahead Tip: You can boil and smash the potatoes up to 2 days in advance. Store in the fridge, then bake fresh for the crispiest texture.
✔ Reheating Instructions: For the best crisp, reheat in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes or in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving—it will make them soft!
✔ Dairy-Free Option: Skip the Parmesan and use nutritional yeast or panko breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.
✔ Serving Ideas: Pair with garlic aioli, sour cream & chives, or spicy sriracha mayo for extra flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Side Dish, Appetizer
Method: Comfort Food
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 servings
Calories: ~180 kcal
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 3g

Keywords: Crispy smashed potatoes, easy potato side dish, baked potatoes, crunchy potatoes, garlic butter potatoes