Roasted smashed potatoes are the perfect combination of crispy edges and soft, fluffy interiors. This dish is incredibly versatile, making it an ideal side for nearly any meal. Whether you’re serving it alongside a juicy steak, grilled chicken, or a light salad, the crunchy texture and savory flavor of these potatoes will elevate your meal. The process of boiling the potatoes first ensures tenderness, while smashing them before roasting exposes more surface area to get wonderfully crispy in the oven. A sprinkle of fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil ties everything together, making this simple dish a flavorful crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds baby potatoes (red or Yukon gold)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried rosemary)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Boil the potatoes: Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Smash the potatoes: Transfer the boiled potatoes to the prepared baking sheet. Use a fork or the bottom of a glass to gently press down on each potato until it flattens slightly but still holds together.
- Season the potatoes: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the mixture over the smashed potatoes, making sure they are evenly coated.
- Roast the potatoes: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges of the potatoes are golden and crispy.
- Add cheese (optional): If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the potatoes in the last 5 minutes of roasting.
- Serve: Remove the potatoes from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
These roasted smashed potatoes are perfect for dinner parties or weeknight meals, offering both a delightful texture and rich flavor.
