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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the charm of crispy smashed baby potatoes. This delightful side dish combines the best of both worlds: a crunchy, golden-brown exterior that gives way to a soft, fluffy interior. Whether served alongside a juicy steak, roasted chicken, or grilled vegetables, these potatoes are sure to elevate any meal. Their delectable texture and flavor make them an irresistible addition to your dining table, perfect for both casual family dinners and festive gatherings.

Crispy Smashed Baby Potatoes

Discover the joy of crispy smashed baby potatoes, a perfect comfort food for any meal. With a crunchy golden exterior and fluffy interior, they make an irresistible side dish. This simple recipe highlights the versatility of baby potatoes, allowing you to experiment with various flavors, from creamy Yukon Golds to sweet red potatoes. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, these delightful potatoes will elevate your family dinners and festive gatherings alike. Enjoy them with your favorite main dishes or as tasty appetizers at your next gathering.

Ingredients
  

1.5 lbs baby potatoes (choose Yukon gold or red for best flavor)

4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon sea salt

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Freshly chopped herbs (such as parsley, chives, or rosemary) for garnish

Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C) to ensure it’s ready for roasting.

    Boil the Potatoes: In a large pot, place the baby potatoes and cover them completely with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water, then bring it to a rolling boil. Allow the potatoes to cook for approximately 15-20 minutes or until they are fork-tender.

      Drain and Cool: After boiling, drain the potatoes in a colander and let them cool for around 5 minutes. This cooling period will help to minimize excess moisture, making for crispier potatoes.

        Smash the Potatoes: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Once cooled, transfer the potatoes onto the lined sheet. Using the flat side of a fork or a potato masher, gently press down on each potato to smash them to about ½ inch thick. Take care not to break them apart entirely; you want them to remain in one piece.

          Season the Potatoes: In a small mixing bowl, blend together the extra virgin olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper until well combined. Drizzle this flavorful mixture over the smashed potatoes, ensuring each one is generously coated.

            Roast to Perfection: Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and roast the potatoes for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they cook, looking for a golden brown, crispy exterior.

              Optional Topping: If you’re using grated Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the potatoes in the last 5 minutes of roasting. This will allow it to melt and create a rich, cheesy finish.

                Garnish and Serve: Once the potatoes are beautifully crispy and golden, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs and, if desired, a pinch of additional salt. Serve warm as an irresistible side dish or delightful appetizer that everyone will love.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 45 minutes | 4 servings