Smashed Garlic Butter Potatoes Crispy and Flavorful

Get ready to elevate your side dish game with my Smashed Garlic Butter Potatoes! These crispy, flavorful bites are easy to make and packed with buttery garlic goodness. In this post, I’ll walk you through every step to achieve the perfect texture and taste. You’ll even find tips for variations and serving suggestions. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1.5 pounds baby potatoes

– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

– 5 cloves garlic

– 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary

Seasoning Ingredients

– Salt and black pepper

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– Fresh parsley for garnish

Smashed Garlic Butter Potatoes start with simple, fresh ingredients. I love using baby potatoes. They are small and tender, making them perfect for smashing. Aim for a mix of colors. This makes the dish pop on your plate.

You need unsalted butter to create a rich garlic butter sauce. The garlic adds a bold flavor that pairs well with the potatoes. Use fresh garlic for the best taste. I recommend five cloves, chopped finely. This ensures the garlic spreads evenly.

Fresh rosemary brings a nice earthy note. If you don’t have fresh, dried works too. Just use a little less.

Seasoning is key for these potatoes. Salt and black pepper bring out the flavors. Drizzling with olive oil helps achieve that crispy texture. Finally, fresh parsley adds color and freshness when serving.

These ingredients come together to make a stunning and tasty side dish. Enjoy experimenting with them!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Potatoes

– Preheat the oven and boil the potatoes: Start by setting your oven to 425°F (220°C). This lets it heat up while you work. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Carefully add 1.5 pounds of baby potatoes. Cook them for about 15 to 20 minutes. You want them fork-tender.

– Cool and drain the potatoes: Once cooked, drain the potatoes in a colander. Let them cool for a few minutes. This makes them easier to handle.

Smashed Technique

– Smash the potatoes with a potato masher: Take each cooled potato and place it on a lined baking sheet. Use a potato masher or the flat bottom of a glass. Gently smash each potato until it’s flattened but still holds its shape.

– Prepare the baking sheet: Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper helps to prevent sticking. This step is key for easy cleanup.

Flavoring the Potatoes

– Prepare the garlic butter mixture: In a small bowl, mix 4 tablespoons of melted butter, 5 finely minced garlic cloves, and 1 teaspoon of chopped rosemary. Add a good pinch of salt and black pepper. Whisk these together until well blended.

– Coat the potatoes and season: Drizzle the garlic butter mixture over the smashed potatoes. Make sure each potato gets a good coat. Then, drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil on top. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Roasting

– Roast until crispy and golden: Place the baking sheet in the oven. Roast the potatoes for about 20 to 25 minutes. You want the edges to be crispy and golden brown.

– Final garnishing before serving: Once done, take the baking sheet out of the oven. Sprinkle the smashed potatoes with chopped fresh parsley. This adds color and freshness before serving.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Texture

To get the best texture, cook the potatoes evenly. Start by boiling them in salted water. This helps them cook faster and keeps their flavor. Aim for fork-tender potatoes, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes. After cooking, let them cool a bit for easier handling.

When it’s time to smash, use a potato masher or the flat bottom of a glass. Press down gently, so they flatten but stay intact. This helps them crisp up nicely in the oven.

Enhancing Flavor

Fresh herbs make a big difference. I recommend using fresh rosemary for a strong taste. If you use dried, just cut the amount in half. Fresh herbs pack a punch that dried ones can’t match.

For garlic lovers, feel free to adjust the garlic levels. More garlic means more flavor, so don’t hold back if you love that rich taste. Just remember, balance is key.

Serving Suggestions

Smashed potatoes pair well with many dishes. They make a great side for grilled meats or fresh salads. Their crunch and flavor add a lot to any meal.

For a creative presentation, arrange the potatoes in a circle on the plate. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a pop of color. This simple touch makes your dish look fancy and inviting.

Variations

Different Seasonings

You can change up the flavor with different seasonings. For a spicy kick, add chili flakes to your garlic butter. Just a pinch can take the taste to a new level. If you love cheese, try loading the smashed potatoes with your favorite cheese. Melted cheddar or crumbled feta can add a rich taste that pairs well with garlic.

Alternative Cooking Methods

If you want a quicker way to make these potatoes, try using an air fryer. Preheat it to 400°F (200°C). After smashing the potatoes, place them in the air fryer basket. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until they are crispy.

Grilling is another fun option. Preheat your grill and place the smashed potatoes in a grill basket. Cook them for around 10-15 minutes, turning halfway through. This method adds a smoky flavor that is hard to resist.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter instead of regular butter. This keeps the creamy texture while making it suitable for everyone. You can also swap out rosemary for other herbs. Thyme or oregano works well and can give a fresh twist to your potatoes. Feel free to experiment with whatever herbs you have at home!

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your smashed garlic butter potatoes fresh, follow these best practices:

– Cool the potatoes: Let them cool to room temperature before storing.

– Use an airtight container: Place the potatoes in a container that seals well to prevent moisture loss.

– Refrigerate: Store your smashed potatoes in the fridge.

You can keep them for up to 3 days. After that, they might lose their best taste and texture.

Reheating Methods

To enjoy your leftovers, reheating is key. Here are the best methods:

– Oven reheating: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet. Heat for about 15 minutes until they are hot and crispy again. This method keeps them crunchy.

– Microwave reheating: If you’re short on time, place the potatoes on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 1 to 2 minutes. They will be warm but might lose some crispiness.

Choose the oven for the best texture. Enjoy your tasty smashed garlic butter potatoes again!

FAQs

How long do I boil the potatoes for smashed garlic butter potatoes?

Boil the baby potatoes for 15 to 20 minutes. You want them fork-tender. Test with a fork to check. When they are soft, drain them well. Let them cool slightly before smashing.

Can I prepare smashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep smashed potatoes early. Cook and smash them, then store in the fridge. Keep them in an airtight container for up to two days. When ready to serve, add the garlic butter and roast them until crispy.

What can I use instead of rosemary?

If you don’t have rosemary, try thyme or parsley. Both add great flavor. You can also use oregano for a different taste. Fresh herbs usually work best, but dried herbs can work too.

Making smashed garlic butter potatoes is simple and fun. You learned the key ingredients and steps, from boiling to roasting. I shared tips to enhance texture and flavor, plus variations for creativity. Remember, feel free to adjust herbs and spices. You can even try different cooking methods like air frying. Enjoy experimenting with leftovers, and don’t forget to reheat them properly! Dive into this delicious side dish and elevate your meals. Your taste buds will thank you for i