Crispy Smashed Potatoes (Printable)

Boiled baby potatoes smashed, seasoned and roasted until golden and crisp, finished with fresh herbs and flaky sea salt.

# Ingredient List:

→ Potatoes

01 - 1 1/2 lb baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red), whole

→ Seasoning & fat

02 - 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
03 - 1 tsp kosher salt
04 - 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
05 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
06 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
07 - 2 tbsp mixed fresh herbs, minced (parsley, rosemary, or thyme)

→ Finishing

08 - Flaky sea salt, to taste
09 - Extra chopped fresh herbs, for garnish
10 - Grated Parmesan, optional (for last 5 minutes of roasting)

# How to Prepare:

01 - Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
02 - Place potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, bring to a boil and simmer until a fork slides in easily, 15–20 minutes. Drain thoroughly and let steam-dry for 2 minutes.
03 - Transfer potatoes to the prepared sheet. Using the bottom of a glass or a potato masher, press each potato gently to about 1/2 inch thick, keeping pieces intact.
04 - Drizzle the oil evenly over the smashed potatoes. Sprinkle with kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder and smoked paprika if using; toss gently on the sheet to coat.
05 - Roast for 25–30 minutes, turning once halfway through, until edges are deep golden and crisp.
06 - Remove from oven, sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs and flaky sea salt. If using Parmesan, grate over potatoes and return to oven for the final 5 minutes. Serve hot.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Each potato turns out crisp on the outside and tender within, giving you the ultimate combination in every bite.
  • This recipe feels almost foolproof—no fancy tools needed, just a gentle touch and a dose of fresh herbs.
02 -
  • If the potatoes are too wet when smashing, they won’t crisp up no matter how long you roast—give them those crucial two minutes to steam dry.
  • Flipping halfway is not optional; it’s the reason both sides turn out so beautifully crunchy instead of just one.
03 -
  • Smash each potato gently—if you press too hard, chunks may break off and won’t crisp as nicely.
  • A final sprinkle of flaky sea salt and herbs while hot is the little chef’s secret that elevates the whole dish.
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