Name: Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ lbs small yellow potatoes; 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil, divided; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon onion powder; Fresh parsley or chives, for serving

There’s something irresistibly satisfying about a perfectly crunchy outside paired with a fluffy inside, which is exactly why this Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe has become a go-to in my kitchen. You’ll love how straightforward it is to achieve that golden, crispy texture that feels fancy but takes almost no effort!

The image shows several crispy smashed potatoes scattered on a white marbled surface. Each piece has a golden-brown, wrinkled skin on the outside with a bright yellow soft inside, slightly broken and mashed flat. The potatoes are sprinkled with coarse salt and black pepper, giving texture and contrast. To the right edge of the frame, there is a portion of a white plate holding coarse salt. The scene is bright and sharp, highlighting the crispy texture and vibrant color of the potatoes photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Every time I make these crispy smashed potatoes, I’m reminded how such simple ingredients can create magic. It’s the perfect side dish that feels both comforting and restaurant-worthy, which is why I’m excited to share it with you!

Effortlessly Crispy: Using a high oven temperature and a little olive oil gets that crisp, golden finish you crave without deep frying.
Fluffy Inside: Boiling the potatoes first ensures a tender inside, balancing the crunch perfectly.
Customizable Flavors: Simple seasoning with garlic and onion powders, plus fresh herbs, means you can tweak it however you like.
Kid- and Crowd-Friendly: It’s a hit at my family dinners and gatherings — easy to make in batches and universally loved.

Ingredients & Why They Work

These ingredients come together in such a simple but foolproof combo. I always opt for yellow potatoes because their thin skin crisps up beautifully without peeling, and the seasonings add that savory punch that keeps you reaching for more.

Flat lay of small fresh yellow potatoes with smooth skins, a small white ceramic bowl of golden olive oil, a small white bowl filled with coarse salt crystals, a small white bowl containing ground black pepper, a small white bowl holding garlic powder, a small white bowl with onion powder, and a small bunch of fresh green parsley sprigs, all neatly arranged with perfect symmetry on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Small yellow potatoes: Their waxy texture helps them hold shape after boiling and smashing without falling apart.
Olive oil: Provides the perfect crispy coating and a touch of richness – don’t skimp here!
Salt: Essential for enhancing flavor and seasoning throughout the cooking process.
Garlic powder: Adds a warm, subtle punch without overpowering.
Black pepper: Just enough to balance the garlic and add a bit of heat.
Onion powder: Rounds out the savory flavor profile beautifully.
Fresh parsley or chives: A quick sprinkle brightens the finished dish and adds a fresh contrast.

Note: Exact ingredients and measurements are listed in the recipe card below.

Make It Your Way

I love mixing it up with different herbs or adding cheese just before serving. You can really tailor this Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe to suit whatever mood you’re in or what’s in your pantry.

Herb Variation: Toss with rosemary or thyme before baking — I tried rosemary once and it added a lovely piney aroma that was a win for dinner guests.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle with smoked paprika or chili powder for a little heat and smoky depth.
Cheesy Finish: Add grated Parmesan in the last 5 minutes of baking for a crispy, cheesy crust.
Vegan/Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally vegan, just make sure your olive oil is high quality for the best flavor.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe

A white cooking pot filled with about 20 small yellow potatoes submerged in clear water, showing their smooth skins with slight spots and natural marks. The pot has a light-colored handle with a metallic ring near the base, placed on a white marbled surface. The top-down view captures the round shape of the pot and the evenly spread potatoes inside. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Boil Until Perfectly Tender

Start by boiling your small yellow potatoes in well-salted water. The key here is to cook them just until they're fork-tender — usually about 15 to 20 minutes. I like to test a potato with a fork; it should slide in easily but not so mushy that the potato falls apart. This step sets the stage for that fluffy interior we’re aiming for.

Step 2: Let Them Cool and Prep the Oven

After draining, give your potatoes about 5 minutes to cool — not too long, you want them warm but handleable. Meanwhile, crank your oven up to 450°F (that high heat is key for crispiness!) and drizzle olive oil on your baking sheet(s). I usually use two sheets if my potatoes crowd each other, to help them crisp evenly.

Step 3: Smash and Season

Place each potato on the baking sheet and gently smash it using the bottom of a measuring cup or glass until it’s about half an inch thick. Trust me, don’t press too hard—you want them smashed but still in one piece. Then drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle liberally with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This seasoning combo is spot on every time!

Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Crispy

Bake your potatoes for 25 to 35 minutes. Halfway through, rotate the pan to ensure even crisping. Heads up: don’t flip the potatoes! Keep an eye towards the end since they can turn from perfectly golden to burnt quickly. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are beautifully crisp and a deep golden color.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve Warm

Right out of the oven, I love sprinkling fresh parsley or bright chives on top—it gives a pop of color and fresh flavor that contrasts the crispy potatoes perfectly. Serve these warm and watch them disappear fast!

Top Tip

After making this Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe a dozen times, I learned these tips really take the dish from good to WOW-worthy. Don't rush the boiling or skip the oil on the baking sheet — these small steps make a huge difference.

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Giving your potatoes space lets the edges crisp up beautifully. I once tried cramming them together, and the results were soggy instead of crispy.
Use Warm Potatoes to Smash: When potatoes cool too much they get stubborn to flatten properly. Smash them while they're still a bit warm for better results.
High Heat is Critical: 450°F is where the magic happens. Lower temps don’t deliver the same crunch.
Season Generously: Potatoes soak up seasoning well during baking, so don’t be shy with the garlic and onion powders.

How to Serve Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe

Garnishes

I usually grab fresh parsley or chives because their bright flavors cut through the richness perfectly. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dollop of sour cream if we’re feeling indulgent.

Side Dishes

This Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a fresh salad. For casual meals, I love serving it alongside sautéed green beans or simple steamed broccoli.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, try arranging the potatoes on a large platter, garnished with colorful herbs and small bowls of dipping sauces like garlic aioli, ketchup, or spicy mayo. It makes for a fun and festive finger food everyone can enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, I store leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. They keep well and are great for quick snacks or reheated sides during the week.

Freezing

I don’t usually freeze these because the texture can change, but if you want to try, flash freeze them flat on a sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat straight from frozen for best results.

Reheating

To bring back that amazing crispness, I reheat potatoes in the oven or air fryer at 400°F for about 8-10 minutes. Microwaving makes them soggy, so I avoid that whenever possible!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

While small yellow potatoes work best for their tender yet sturdy texture, you can also try baby red potatoes or fingerlings. Just make sure they boil up tender without falling apart. Avoid starchy russets, which can get too mushy when smashed.

How do I ensure the potatoes get crispy?

The key is high oven heat (450°F), not overcrowding the baking sheet, and coating the potatoes well with olive oil. Also, resist the temptation to flip them while baking; crispness develops best on the bottom and edges.

Can I prepare these potatoes in advance?

Yes! You can boil and smash the potatoes a day ahead, then store them covered in the fridge. When ready to eat, season, bake, and crisp them up fresh. This is a great time-saver for busy days.

What are some good dipping sauces for crispy smashed potatoes?

Classic ketchup and garlic aioli are always winners, but I also love ranch dressing, spicy sriracha mayo, or even a tangy yogurt-based dip with herbs. These add fun flavor layers when you want to mix things up.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe has become a little slice of joy for me in the kitchen — it’s one of those dishes that’s easy to make but always feels like a treat. Whether you serve it as a side or snack, I’m confident you’ll find yourself making it again and again, just like I do. Give it a try and let those crispy edges win you over!