Go Back

Smashed Crispy Potatoes

Humble potatoes transformed through smashing and roasting, delivering perfect contrast of fluffy interiors and golden, craggy exteriors with maximum surface area for seasoning.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds small baby potatoes (fingerling or baby gold)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or parsley)
  • flaky sea salt for finishing

Method
 

  1. Place whole potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold salted water by 2 inches. Bring to a rolling boil and cook for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender but not falling apart.
  2. While potatoes cook, preheat oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
  3. Drain potatoes thoroughly and let them sit for 5 minutes until cool enough to handle. Pat them completely dry with paper towels.
  4. Using a potato masher, fork, or the bottom of a glass, gently press down on each potato until it flattens to about 1/2-inch thick.
  5. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the smashed potatoes, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Use your hands to rub the seasoning into all the nooks and crannies.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the edges are deeply golden and crispy.

Notes

Boil potatoes up to 2 hours ahead for crispier results. Pat potatoes completely dry before seasoning - excess moisture prevents crispiness. Don't flip during roasting to develop golden crust. Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to 3 days, reheat in 400°F oven for 5-7 minutes. Freezing not recommended.