Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Butter
Table of Contents
The kitchen is my sanctuary, a place where memories are as rich as the aromas that fill the air. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that has warmed the hearts and bellies of my family for generations: Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Butter. There’s something so comforting about these golden, crispy potatoes, gently bathed in a garlic butter sauce that wraps you in a hug of flavor. As a child, I remember my grandmother preparing these for our Sunday family dinners, the sound of the potatoes being smashed was music to my ears, signaling that dinner was almost ready.
These potatoes are more than just a side dish; they’re a vessel of nostalgia, a reminder of simpler times when the whole family gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter. The joy of watching the potatoes roast to perfection, with their crispy edges and soft, buttery centers, is pure magic. They’re a testament to the beauty of simplicity, turning basic ingredients into a dish that feels like a special occasion every time.
Imagine biting into the crispy exterior only to find a fluffy, tender inside, with the subtle yet unmistakable aroma of garlic and the freshness of parsley. It’s a combination that brings comfort with every bite, making you feel right at home. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is as easy as pie (or should I say, potato?) and promises a delightful outcome every time.
Why This Recipe Should Be on Your Table
These Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Butter bring a delightful twist to traditional side dishes, making them a must-have for any meal or celebration. Here’s why they deserve a spot on your table:
- Nostalgic Delight: These potatoes evoke the warmth of family gatherings and cherished moments around the dinner table. They remind us of laughter echoing through the kitchen and the warmth of sharing a lovingly prepared meal.
- Versatile Side Dish: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual weeknight dinner, these potatoes complement any main course beautifully. They can be the star of a vegetarian spread or a supportive cast member to a meat-centered meal.
- Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a dish that’s both affordable and flavorful. No need for exotic spices or hard-to-find components — just simple, honest ingredients.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Their crispy exterior and soft center make them a hit with both kids and adults alike. Few can resist the temptation of a perfectly roasted potato, making these a safe bet for any gathering.
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy nights, they come together effortlessly, allowing you to focus on enjoying time with loved ones. The preparation is straightforward, and the results are consistently delightful.
Kitchen Tools to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
To whip up these delightful bites, you won’t need much — just a few trusty kitchen tools, much like the ones my grandma used when teaching me the joy of homemade snacks.
- Large Saucepan: Essential for boiling the potatoes until they’re perfectly tender. The depth of the pan ensures even cooking, allowing each potato to reach the ideal softness without crowding.
- Rimmed Baking Sheet: Ensures even roasting and catches all the delicious garlic butter. The rim prevents spills and keeps the butter from escaping, ensuring every potato is basted with flavor.
- Measuring Cup or Drinking Glass: For gently smashing the potatoes, creating those lovely crispy edges. This tool helps achieve the perfect thickness, ensuring the balance between crispy and fluffy.
- Large Spoon: Helps to coat the potatoes evenly with the garlic butter mixture. A spoon with a large bowl can effectively lift and toss the potatoes, ensuring each one is drenched in buttery goodness.
- Sharp Knife: To test the tenderness of the potatoes before roasting. A quick pierce is all you need to ensure the potatoes are ready for their final transformation in the oven.
How to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds baby Yukon gold potatoes (10 to 14)
- 2 tablespoons plus 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, grated (about 1 tablespoon)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Scrub 1 1/2 pounds baby Yukon gold potatoes clean and place in a large saucepan. Ensure they’re uniform in size for even cooking.
- Add enough cold water to cover potatoes by about an inch. Stir in 2 tablespoons of the kosher salt, place over high heat, and bring to a boil. The salt helps season the potatoes from the inside out.
- Reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are very tender and can be easily pierced with a sharp knife with no resistance, about 20 to 25 minutes. Drain and set aside. This step is crucial to achieving that perfect texture.
- Arrange 2 racks to divide the oven into thirds and heat to 500°F. Place 4 tablespoons unsalted butter in the now-empty pot and melt over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in 4 grated garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and the remaining 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt. Infusing the butter with garlic and parsley at this stage enhances the flavor profile.
- Add the potatoes and toss to coat. Make sure each potato is thoroughly covered with the butter mixture.
- Pour the potatoes and any extra melted butter mixture onto a rimmed baking sheet. Using the bottom of a lightly greased drinking glass or measuring cup, press down on each potato until it splits open and is flattened to about 3/4-inch thick. This step is key for creating a surface area that crisps beautifully in the oven.
- Roast on the lower rack until the bottoms are golden-brown, about 10 minutes. Move to the higher rack and roast until the tops are brown and crispy, 10 to 15 minutes more. Serve warm. The dual-rack roasting ensures even crispiness on both sides.
Difficulty: Easy • Cuisine: American • Preparation Time: 10 minutes • Cooking Time: 45 minutes • Total Time: 55 minutes • Calories: 200 • Servings: 4
Note: For a zesty twist, you can sprinkle a bit of lemon zest over the potatoes before serving. This adds a bright, citrusy note that complements the garlic and parsley.
Health and Flavor Benefits of Ingredients
These Crispy Smashed Potatoes not only promise delightful flavors but also come with some surprising benefits:
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: Low in calories and rich in vitamin C, they provide a natural source of energy. Their creamy texture makes them ideal for this dish, offering a buttery taste without excess fat.
- Garlic: Known for its heart health benefits and immune-boosting properties, garlic adds a robust flavor. It’s a natural antibiotic and can help reduce blood pressure.
- Parsley: A natural breath freshener loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, it adds a fresh, vibrant touch. Parsley can also aid digestion and reduce bloating.
- Butter: While indulgent, butter provides a rich flavor and is a source of healthy fats when consumed in moderation. It also contains vitamins A and D, essential for healthy skin and bones.
Tasty Pairings to Serve with This Easy Peasy Dish
These potatoes are versatile companions to various beverages and dishes, making them perfect for any occasion:
- Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavors of grilled chicken pair beautifully with the buttery potatoes. The savory, charred chicken complements the creamy texture of the potatoes.
- Steak: A classic combination that transforms any dinner into a special occasion. The robust flavor of a well-cooked steak is perfectly balanced by the potatoes’ subtle flavors.
- Green Salad: A refreshing green salad balances the richness of the potatoes. A vinaigrette dressing can add a tangy contrast that enhances the overall meal.
- Chilled White Wine: Enhance your dining experience with a crisp white wine, complementing the garlic and parsley. A Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay would work wonderfully, cutting through the richness of the dish.
Storage Tips and How to Enjoy Leftovers the Easy Peasy Way
If you find yourself with leftover potatoes (a rare occurrence, I assure you!), don’t fret. These smashed delights can be easily reheated and enjoyed again. Simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to dive back into their crispy goodness, reheat them in the oven at 350°F until heated through and crispy again. This method ensures they regain their delightful crunch without becoming soggy.
For a fun twist, consider using them as a base for a breakfast hash. Just chop them up and toss them in a skillet with some eggs and veggies for a hearty start to your day. You can add bell peppers, onions, and a sprinkle of cheese for a complete breakfast experience.
As we bring our culinary journey to a close, I hope you’ve felt the warmth and simplicity of homemade cooking in every word and step. There’s a special kind of joy that comes from crafting a meal with love and sharing it with those who matter most. Whether it’s a quiet dinner at home or a festive gathering, these Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Butter are sure to create new memories and maybe even become a beloved tradition in your home.
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Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Butter
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Scrub 1 1/2 pounds baby Yukon gold potatoes clean and place in a large saucepan.
- Add enough cold water to cover potatoes by about an inch. Stir in 2 tablespoons of the kosher salt, place over high heat, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are very tender and can be easily pierced with a sharp knife with no resistance, 20 to 25 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Arrange 2 racks to divide the oven into thirds and heat to 500°F. Place 4 tablespoons unsalted butter in the now-empty pot and melt over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in 4 grated garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and remaining 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt.
- Add the potatoes and toss to coat.
- Pour the potatoes and any extra melted butter mixture onto a rimmed baking sheet. Using the bottom of a lightly greased drinking glass or measuring cup, press down on each potato until it splits open and is flattened to 3/4-inch thick.
- Roast on the lower rack until the bottoms are golden-brown, about 10 minutes. Move to the higher rack and roast until the tops are brown and crispy, 10 to 15 minutes more. Serve warm.
