Smashed Mini Potatoes Recipe

I recently made these crispy smashed potatoes, and they are my new go-to side dish for any gathering. The combination of garlic, rosemary, and Parmesan creates a savory masterpiece that’s incredibly satisfying; honestly, I can’t stop myself from reaching for one more.

Golden-brown on the outside and soft inside, my smashed mini Yukon Golds make a delightful dish. I drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle garlic and onion powder over them, along with rosemary (which could be optional if you’re not a fan), and smacked them around a little.

And then, for the photo at top, because this is half about the visual as much as the taste (Parmesan, anyone?), I piled some on top.

Smashed Mini Potatoes Recipe Ingredients

• Mini Potatoes: Packed with fiber and potassium, they offer energy and aid digestion.
• Olive Oil: Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, it boosts heart health.
• Garlic Powder: Adds depth and flavor while providing antioxidants.
• Onion Powder: Enhances taste with a savory kick and nutrients.
• Rosemary: Offers earthy flavor and antioxidant properties.
• Parmesan Cheese: Optional, adds umami richness and calcium.
• Parsley: Optional, provides a fresh taste and vitamin boost.

Smashed Mini Potatoes Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1.5 pounds (680g) mini potatoes (such as baby Yukon Gold or baby red potatoes)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or fresh rosemary, finely chopped)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional, for serving)

How to Make this Smashed Mini Potatoes Recipe

1. Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a big pot, add the small potatoes and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then turn the heat down and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender enough to be pierced with a fork.

3. Let the potatoes cool slightly on the baking sheet after you have drained them.

4. With a fork or potato masher, press gently on each potato until it flattens but stays in one piece.

5. Combine in a small bowl the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper.

6. Evenly drizzle the mixture of olive oil over the smashed potatoes, ensuring that each one is nicely coated.

7. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Position the oven rack in the middle of the oven. Adjust the oven temperature so that it is not higher than 350°F and no lower than 300°F. A temperature not higher than 350°F yields a cookie that is more puffy and chewy.

8. If you want, you can add some grated Parmesan cheese to the potatoes during the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy finish.

9. Take the potatoes out of the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes.

10. Move to a serving plate and add fresh parsley for garnish. If you wish, serve with sour cream or Greek yogurt alongside.

Smashed Mini Potatoes Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Baking sheet
3. Parchment paper
4. Large pot
5. Fork or potato masher
6. Small bowl
7. Measuring spoons
8. Serving plate

FAQ

• Can I use regular-sized potatoes instead of mini potatoes?Certainly, you can do that. Just cut them into smaller pieces, but ensure they’re uniform in size to allow for even cooking.
• What is the best way to smash the potatoes?Employ the base of a glass or a potato masher to gently compress each boiled potato into a more manageable form.
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?The potatoes can be boiled and smashed a few hours in advance. When it is time to serve, just mix them with oil and seasonings and put them in the oven.
• Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?No, it isn’t required. The skin adds flavor and texture, and it helps to keep the potatoes intact.
• What can I use instead of olive oil?You can substitute melted butter or any cooking oil of your choice.
• How do I store leftovers?Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for no more than 3 days. For best results, warm in the oven or on a skillet.
• Can this recipe be made vegan?Omit the Parmesan cheese and serve with a plant-based alternative like hummus or mashed avocado.

Smashed Mini Potatoes Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Melted butter or avocado oil can be used in place of olive oil for a different health profile or a different flavor. And if you’re looking for something to drizzle, try one of these oils infused with a little heat. Sunflower oil is nice and neutral; just don’t get it too hot.
Substitute with fresh minced garlic or granulated garlic at a similar quantity if garlic powder is not available.
Shallots, minced, or onions, finely chopped, can replace onion powder. However, these alternatives will introduce extra moisture.
Dried thyme or dried oregano can be used instead of dried rosemary for a different herbal note.
When it is necessary to alter the salt content, substitute sea salt or kosher salt for standard table salt. Use them in the same amount as the recipe calls for regular salt, and adjust to taste.

Pro Tips

1. Par-Boiling Tip To ensure even cooking, make sure the potatoes are all around the same size. You can test for doneness by piercing a couple of the larger potatoes with a fork; they should be easily pierced but not falling apart.

2. Smashing Technique Use a flat-bottomed glass or mug instead of a fork to smash the potatoes. This method provides more even pressure and helps maintain the potatoes’ shape better.

3. Seasoning Flexibility Feel free to customize the seasoning mix by adding paprika for an extra kick or substituting the garlic and onion powder with fresh minced garlic and onions for a more robust flavor.

4. Crispy Finish For extra crispy potatoes, after drizzling with olive oil, you can increase the oven temperature to 450°F (232°C) for the last 5-10 minutes of baking.

5. Garnish and Serve For a more gourmet touch, consider adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of fresh chives along with the parsley before serving. This will enhance the presentation and add additional flavor layers.