Delicious Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes for Perfectly Crunchy Bites

If you told me a late-night kitchen experiment would lead me to my new favorite Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes recipe, I wouldn’t have believed it. But oh, the magic it brought to my kitchen! One evening, craving something comforting but exciting, I pulled out some red potatoes, ready to try something different. I boiled them till tender, gave them a gentle smash, tossed them with herbs and garlic, then roasted those bad boys till perfectly crispy. The anticipation was unreal as the oven aroma filled the air—the crunches, the flavor bursts—it was an absolute flavor celebration!

This Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes moment quickly became my happy accident turned family favorite. What hooked me wasn’t just the crisp exterior or the fluffy inside, but how this humble dish transformed any regular meal into a bold flavor experience. It’s comfort food with a twist, showing off crispy smashed potatoes in the best way possible. I love how it fits any occasion: weeknight dinners, game nights, or even festive gatherings.

If you’ve been searching for a way to add exciting yet cozy flavors to your table, you’re in the perfect spot! Trust me, this Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes is all about that crave-worthy, crispy-top magic combined with herbaceous, garlicky goodness. Fellow food lovers, get ready to jump into the kitchen and make this your new go-to family pleaser. Let’s get those happy dances started!

Speaking of bold flavors, this crispy smashed red potatoes recipe reminded me of another flavor-packed favorite—check out these Crispy Air Fryer Pizza Rolls for a perfect snack with punch. For a vegetable side with the same crispy vibe, you’ll love the Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash.


INGREDIENTS You Need

Ingredients for Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes including red potatoes, olive oil, garlic, herbs, salt and pepper

This Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes ingredient list is all about bold flavors that actually work together! Here’s what I always keep stocked when I’m ready to whip up a batch of this crispy goodness:

  • 1.5 pounds red potatoes (small to medium size) – perfect for smashing!
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil – this Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes gets its amazing taste from this rich base.
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced – adds that garlic smashed red potatoes kick we all crave!
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt – essential for balanced seasoning.
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground for the best flavor zip.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped – for herb smashed potatoes magic.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped – another flavor booster that pairs beautifully.

No worries if you don’t have fresh rosemary or thyme on hand. I use dried herbs all the time in my Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes and still get incredible flavor! Just reduce dried herbs a bit since they’re more concentrated.

You can grab all of these during your normal shopping trip—no fancy spices needed here!

For busy weeknights, if you’re short on time, pre-wash your potatoes ahead and keep them in the fridge. That way, when hunger strikes, these oven roasted red potatoes come together fast.

I love adding extra garlic or a sprinkle of smoked paprika on mine for that extra kick. It’s little flavor tweaks like these that take Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes from good to irresistible.

If you want to try different variations, Crispy Smashed Baby Potatoes work just as well here. Their smaller size means shorter roasting time and even crispier edges!

For more inspiration on smashed potato recipes, check out this Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes – RecipeTin Eats guide.


Let’s Make Some!

Ready to get your hands deliciously messy with Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes? Let’s dive into the fun step-by-step!

1. Boil the potatoes until tender: Start by placing your red potatoes in a large pot with cold salted water. Bring it to a boil, then let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a fork slides in easily but they’re not falling apart. This is the perfect base for crispy smashed potatoes.

2. Preheat your oven: While the potatoes are boiling, crank your oven to 450°F. High heat is how we get those crispy edges!

3. Prepare your baking sheet: Line it with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil.

4. Drain and cool: Once the potatoes are tender, drain them well and let them cool slightly—just enough to handle without burning your fingers.

5. Smash time! Place the potatoes on the baking sheet, leaving some space between each one. Use a heavy glass or a small pot to gently press down each potato until it’s about half an inch thick. Don’t worry if your Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes doesn’t look perfect—it’s all about that uneven, rustic texture!

6. Add the flavor: Brush or drizzle olive oil over each smashed potato. Next, sprinkle with minced garlic, sea salt, pepper, and chopped rosemary and thyme. You want the herbs and garlic sticking well, so don’t skimp on this step.

7. Roast time: Slide your potatoes into the hot oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, flip the potatoes to get both sides golden and crispy.

8. Watch the magic: Your kitchen will start smelling like a garlic herb dream. That’s when you know the Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes are almost ready!

9. Finish and serve: Once they’re golden brown and extra crispy, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes. Get ready for those satisfying crunchy bites with fluffy centers!

In my kitchen, this Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes usually takes no more than 45 minutes from start to finish, making it a definite weeknight winner. Tip: while these potatoes roast, I love to prep a quick protein, or even whip up Garlic Steak Bites and Potatoes for a full flavor feast.


How to Serve Up This!

Serving Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes garnished with fresh herbs on a platter

People literally do happy dances when this Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes hits the table! It’s the ultimate side dish for so many occasions—from casual family dinners to festive gatherings.

My favorite way to serve these is alongside juicy grilled chicken or pan-seared steak. The garlic smashed red potatoes soak up all those meaty juices like a flavor sponge. I also love pairing these with roasted veggies or a fresh green salad for a balanced plate.

Presentation-wise, arrange them on a large platter and sprinkle extra fresh herbs on top right before serving. The vibrant green against the golden crust looks stunning and invites everyone to dig in.

Don’t stop at the first meal either! Leftover Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes turn into quick loaded potato skins. Just add cheese, crispy bacon bits, sour cream, and green onions, then pop under the broiler for a few minutes. Instant snack perfection!

I’ve even tried a fusion twist tossing these smashed potatoes with a bit of taco seasoning and serving them alongside grilled fajitas—total crowd-pleaser and a fun way to mix things up.

If this crispy smashed potato love is speaking to you, you’ll enjoy making them for game nights and potlucks. Friends always ask for the recipe after tasting these!

For more fun recipes to serve along, definitely check out these Crispy Air Fryer Pizza Rolls and Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash sides that bring the same crispy, comforting vibe.


FAQs:

Will kitchen newbies succeed with this Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes? Absolutely! This recipe is as friendly as it gets. Boil, smash, season, and roast – simple steps that lead to big bold flavor. Even if you’re just starting, you’ll get that crispy, tasty win.

What if I mess up my Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes? Spoiler—it’ll still taste incredible! Maybe your potatoes aren’t perfectly smashed or a little uneven. No problem. The crispiness and flavor are forgiving, so dig in confidently.

Can I prep Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes for busy weeknights? Yes! Boil and smash the potatoes hours or even the day before. Keep them covered in the fridge and roast when ready. This shortcut saves time and keeps flavor fresh.

What’s the difference between crispy smashed red potatoes and crispy smashed baby potatoes? Very similar! Baby potatoes just mean smaller sizes, which cook and crisp faster. Both deliver that perfect crispy outside, fluffy inside bite.

How do I get the perfect crispy edge on my oven roasted red potatoes? High heat and enough oil are key. Don’t crowd the potatoes—give them space to roast up crisp on all sides. The flip halfway through ensures even color and crunch.

Can I make garlic smashed red potatoes without fresh herbs? Totally! Use dried herbs or mix in some garlic powder and onion powder. It won’t lose bold flavor love.

Does this Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes recipe work in an air fryer? Yes! For a quick alternate cooking method, try roasting the smashed potatoes in an air fryer for a similar crispy finish. This Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes – RecipeTin Eats guide shares ideas for different cooking tools.

Where can I find more crispy smashed potato recipes? I love the recipes at Pitchfork Foodie Farms for oven baked smashed red potatoes and Best Smashed Potatoes Recipe from Delish for inspiration. They’ve got great flavor combos to try out.


CONCLUSION:

This Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes recipe brings me joy because it’s all about simple ingredients turning into something unforgettable. The crispy edges, fragrant garlic, and herb smashed potatoes flavors hit every comfort note with a bold twist. This is comfort food that makes you want to celebrate every meal.

My Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes Flavor Secrets:

  • Use plenty of fresh garlic and herbs for that bold, fresh punch.
  • Roast at high heat, and don’t be shy with the olive oil to get that perfect crunch.
  • Flip the potatoes halfway through for even golden crispiness on both sides.

I’ve tried plenty of variations—like swapping thyme for oregano for a Mediterranean feel, tossing smoked paprika for a hint of warmth, or using baby potatoes to speed up the day. Weeknight dinners, game nights, family barbecues—all call for different versions of these crispy smashed potatoes, and each hits in its own delicious way.

Fellow food lovers, trust your taste buds and get creative. This Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes is a canvas for flavor fun and cozy vibes. I’m so excited for you to try it and see how it turns your meals into moments worth savoring.

For more irresistible comfort food with bold flavors, check out these Garlic Steak Bites and Potatoes—it’s another one that’ll make you swoon!

Now, go make some crispy smashed potatoes, gather your crew, and get ready for those happy food dances around your table!

Print

Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes

These Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes are golden, crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them the perfect side dish for any meal.

  • Author: Nyla
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs red potatoes
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Boil red potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  3. Drain and let cool slightly.
  4. Place potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. Using a fork or potato masher, gently press each potato until slightly smashed.
  6. Drizzle olive oil over the potatoes, then sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and black pepper evenly.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are crispy and golden brown.
  8. Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese right after baking.

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