101 Cooking For Two

  • Recipes
  • About
  • FAQs/Help
  • Shop
  • ๐Ÿ“–Emails
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipes
  • About
  • FAQs/Help
  • Shop
  • ๐Ÿ“–Emails
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • Recipes
  • About
  • FAQs/Help
  • Shop
  • ๐Ÿ“–Emails
ร—
๐Ÿ Home ยป Recipes ยป Side Dish Recipes

Crispy Smashed Potatoes Recipe: Fluffy Inside, Crunchy Outside

Updated: Jun 2, 2025 ยท Published: Feb 26, 2023 by Dan Mikesell AKA DrDan ยท 18 Comments

Jump to Recipe
Time: 55 minutes mins

Crispy smashed potatoes offer a perfect balance of a crunchy exterior and a creamy interior. This easy recipe gives you clear, step-by-step instructions for achieving the ideal texture every time. Whether served as a side dish or snack, theyโ€™re sure to impress.

A smashed potato with beans.
Jump To (scroll for more)
  • ๐Ÿ˜ŠWhy you will love these potatoes!
  • ๐Ÿ›’Simple Ingredients for Crispy Smashed Potatoes
  • ๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐ŸณQuick Overview: How to Make Smashed Potatoes
  • ๐Ÿค”Tips and variations
  • ๐Ÿ‘Related recipes
  • ๐Ÿฝ๏ธServing
  • โ„๏ธHow to store leftovers and reheat
  • โ“FAQ
  • ๐Ÿ“–The Recipe Card with Step-by-Step Instructions

quote mark
Featured Comment by Sandra:
โญโญโญโญโญ
"These are the grandkids all time faves. They canโ€™t get enough of them."

๐Ÿ˜ŠWhy you will love these potatoes!

  • Crispy & Tender: A perfect balance of crunch on the outside and a soft, creamy center.
  • Simple Ingredients: Uses basic pantry staples with no fancy ingredients.
  • Quick & Easy: No complicated steps, just boil, smash, season, and roast.
  • Break the French Fry Habit: Taste better, healthier, and goes with any meal or as a snack.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite herbs, cheese, or spices to make it your own.

๐Ÿ›’Simple Ingredients for Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Red potatoes with olive oil and seasoningsโ€”labeled.

๐Ÿฅ”What potatoes to choose

For the best texture, go with thin-skinned waxy potatoes, like red, Yukon Gold, or baby potatoes. These should be about 1 to 1ยฝ inches in diameterโ€”large enough for a hearty serving but not too big. Larger potatoes work, but theyโ€™ll take longer to cook.

Russets, while great for baking due to their thick, starchy skins, can also be used. Pick smaller ones for quicker roasting, usually with thinner skin.

๐Ÿง‚Seasonings

Keep it simple with kosher salt and black pepper. I used my 7:2:1 seasoning for that garlic taste.

Optionalโ€”rosemary, thyme, garlic, chives, grated Parmesan cheese, or other seasonings.

Olive oil: or butter

โœ…Pro Tips: Brushing with melted butter before roasting. Butter can help things brown better than oil, especially when you want a rich, toasty flavor.

๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐ŸณQuick Overview: How to Make Smashed Potatoes

1. Boiling the potatoes

Scrub the potatoes and boil them in salted water until fork-tender.

Red potatoes in boiling water.

โœ…Pro Tip: "Fork-tender" means you can easily stick a fork in the potato, which will fall off its weight. Alternatively, use a thermometer to check for 200ยฐF to 210ยฐF.

โœ…Pro Tip: While the potatoes are boiling, preheat your oven to 425ยฐF (convection) or 450ยฐF (conventional). For extra crispiness, preheat your baking sheet as well.

2. Smashing the potatoes

Arrange the boiled potatoes on a sheet pan and smash them into a heavy coat of olive oil. You can use a potato masher or a fork.

Smashing soft potatoes with a potato masher on an oiled tray.

โœ…Pro Tip: If you preheat the tray, you can also smash the potatoes on a sheet of parchment paper and then slide them onto the pan.

โœ…Pro Tip: Thinner smashed potatoes will be crisper; the thicker ones will be fluffier inside. The rougher the surface, the crunchier the final results.

3. Seasoning

Brush the smashed potatoes with olive oil or melted butter. Then, season to taste with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or any other seasonings you prefer. I use my all-purpose seasoning for a simple garlic flavor.

Brushing a smashed potato with oil.

4. Roasting

Bake until golden brown and crispyโ€”about 20 to 25 minutes. If you want them even crispier, you can bake a bit longer or broil them briefly at the end.

A smashed potato on a plate with beans.

For complete step-by-step instructions, scroll down to the printable recipe card or keep reading for tips, flavor options, and serving ideas.

๐Ÿค”Tips and variations

What oven temperature to use?

The recipe calls for a 425ยฐF convection oven or 450ยฐF conventional oven, but the temperature is flexible. The goal is to cook the potatoes until theyโ€™re nicely browned and crispy, so adjust the temperature based on any other dishes you're cooking at the same time.

Achieving Maximum Crispiness

  • Preheating the Baking Sheet: Ensures even cooking and a crispier finish
  • Spacing the Potatoes: Prevents steaming for improved crispy sides.
  • More Ragged Top: The more ragged the top, the more ridges are needed for crisping. Use a potato masher or a large fork to achieve this texture.
  • Using Enough Oil: Coat the potatoes well with oil or butter (top only) to promote crisping on the edges. Butter provides the best crispiness.

Variations and Add-Ins

  • Cheesy Smashed Potatoes: Adding Parmesan or cheddar for a cheesy twist.
  • Herb-Infused Potatoes: Try adding rosemary, thyme, or chives for extra flavor.
  • Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes, paprika, or cayenne for a spicy finish.

Save this recipe!

Enter your email address and we'll send the link straight to your inbox!

๐Ÿ‘Related recipes

And don't miss these other Crock Pot Cheesy Potatoes with Real Potatoes, Roasted Baby Potatoes, Parmesan Baked Potatoes, Parmesan Potato Wedges, and Cheesy Potato Casserole.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธServing

Pairing with main dishes like NY strip steak, seared chicken, or parmesan tilapia.

Serving as a snack with dips like sour cream or aioli

โ„๏ธHow to store leftovers and reheat

Store leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 days.

Reheat the potatoes in a 400ยฐ oven or an air fryer for about 10 minutes. You may use a microwave, but they wonโ€™t be as crispy.

โ“FAQ

How are smashed potatoes different than mashed potatoes?

Mashed potatoes are peeled, fully cooked, and then creamed with milk, butter, and other seasonings.

Smashed potatoes are mostly cooked initially by parboiling or microwaving and then smashed, They are seasoned and topped with cheese or other toppings. Finally, finish cooking the oven until crispy and tender.

Can I prepare these potatoes in advance?

Yes, you can boil and smash the potatoes ahead of time and refrigerate them. When ready to serve, season and roast them until crispy.

๐Ÿ“–The Recipe Card with Step-by-Step Instructions

A smashed potato with beans.

Crispy Smashed Potatoes: Simple, Delicious, and Perfect Every Time

4.52 from 25 votes
From Dan Mikesell AKA DrDan
These crispy smashed potatoes are simple to make with just a few ingredients. Get a golden, crunchy exterior and creamy center with this easy recipe.
Prep Time: 30 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes minutes
Servings #/Adjustable :4 servings
Print | Pin | Email share | Like and save for later Saved!

Ingredients

US Customary - Convert to Metric
  • 4 thin skin potatoesโ€”red, Yukon gold or others - 1 to 1ยฝ inch
  • olive oil
  • salt in water
  • salt and pepper - or seasoning of your choice

Step-by-Step Instructions
 

Boil the potatoes

  • Add 3-4 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt to a saucepan. Bring it to a boil over high heat.
    adding salt to water
  • Scrub 1ยฝ-inch red potatoes (or your preferred variety).
    Clean potatoes under running water with a brush.
  • Add them to the boiling water, ensuring they are fully covered. Reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for 20-30 minutes until the potatoes are "fork-tender."
    Red potatoes in boiling water.

Preheat

  • While the potatoes are cooking, preheat your oven to 425ยฐF (convection) or 450ยฐF (conventional). Preheat the baking sheet also for added crispiness.

Preparing the pan and potatoes to roast

  • Add olive oil to a baking pan with edges (non-stick is preferred but not required). Use enough oil to create a shallow pool in the pan.
    Once the potatoes are cooked, transfer them to the baking pan and gently smash them to about ยฝ inch thick using a potato masher or fork.
    Smashing soft potatoes with a potato masher on an oiled tray.
  • Brush the smashed potatoes with more olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any seasonings you like. I recommend my All-purpose Seasoning Mix, which includes garlic.
    Brushing a smashed potato with oil.

Roasting

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy. If you want an even crispier surface, bake for a bit longer or broil for the last 1-2 minutes.
    Cooked smashed potato on a spatula.

Recipe Notes

Pro Tips:

  1. Potato Variety: I recommend red or Yukon Gold potatoes, around 1ยฝ inches in diameter. This size cooks easily while providing a good serving portion.
  2. Fork-Tender Potatoes: The potatoes are ready when fork-tender, around an internal temperature of 200ยฐF to 210ยฐF.
  3. Make it Loaded: For loaded smashed potatoes, top with crumbled bacon, cheese, and green onions.
  4. Smashing & Texture: The level of smashing affects the texture. Thicker smashed potatoes will be crispier outside, while less smashed potatoes will be fluffier insideโ€”the more ragged the surface, the crispier the results,ย which is why I don't smash with flat things like a glass or pan bottom.
  5. Adjust for Crispiness: The ideal endpoint is a golden-brown, crispy texture. If you want more browning, extend the baking time or use the broiler for a few minutes at the end.
  6. More tips and options in the recipe post.

Your Own Private Notes

Click here to save your own private notes only you will see. These will print and be saved for your next visit.

To adjust the recipe size:

You can adjust the number of servings above; however, only the amount in the ingredient list is adjusted, not the instructions.

Nutrition Estimate (may vary)

Calories : 166 kcal (8%)Carbohydrates : 33 g (11%)Protein : 4 g (8%)Fat : 2 g (3%)Saturated Fat : 0 gCholesterol : 0 mgSodium : 38 mg (2%)Potassium : 969 mg (28%)Fiber : 3 g (12%)Sugar : 2 g (2%)Vitamin A : 15 IUVitamin C : 18.3 mg (22%)Calcium : 21 mg (2%)Iron : 1.5 mg (8%)

Originally Published July 4, 2012. Updated with expanded options, refreshed photos, and a table of contents to help navigation.

Molly and Lilly are playing in the snow.

More Side Dish Recipes

  • asparagus on a white plate with Parmansan
    Grilling Asparagus on a Gas Grill
  • A fork full of cooked long grain rice
    Baked Rice
  • fried rice on a white plate
    Easy Egg Fried Rice in 10 Minutes
  • Sausage dressing on a white plate.
    Mom's Sausage Dressing

Comments

    This post has been updated and republished. All comments are held for moderation due to spam issues. Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Please leave a comment or question. All comments are moderated.




    This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

  1. MaryJo says

    February 16, 2022 at 10:53 am

    5 stars
    I hadnโ€™t made these in years, so good! I do the potatoes in the microwave and use the little potatoes, then I sprinkle with more olive oil, (just a drizzle) garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, fresh ground pepper and a light sprinkle of cayenne powder. I turn them over after 15 minutes and cook another 5 min. I know it sounds like a lot of โ€˜diddlingโ€™! But wait, thereโ€™s more! I make a sauce with sour cream, green onions, chives, a squeeze of lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt and ground pepper. Whew!

    Reply
  2. Peggy says

    April 03, 2021 at 3:52 pm

    โ€œThe pan needs a good coat of oil to the pooling a bitโ€?

    Reply
  3. Candace Carl says

    April 02, 2021 at 9:37 pm

    5 stars
    Similar to one I do but with chicken stock, butter and thyme. Mine I learned in culinary school, Jacques Pepin potatoes. But this is a great option for vegans. My daughter is now lactose intolerant so will make these for her. Thanks!!!!

    Reply
  4. Dan Mikesell AKA DrDan says

    April 02, 2021 at 10:19 am

    Never depend on spell-check. Fixed and thanks for the proofread.

    Reply
  5. Carol says

    March 20, 2019 at 4:52 pm

    4 stars
    Finally something different than mashed or baked potatoes!!! I made these with breaded pork chops and the meal was fabulous!! My husband said these reminded him of his Grandmotherโ€™s potatoes pancakes!! We both really loved the crispiness of these potatoes!
    I will definitely make these again!! Thanks so much for the recipe!!!

    Reply
    • Dan Mikesell AKA DrDan says

      March 24, 2019 at 8:00 pm

      Hi Carol,
      Welcome to the blog and sorry for the delayed response.
      These are amazingly good and good change of pace. Glad you enjoyed the potatoes.
      Thanks for the note and rating.
      Dan

    • Cindy says

      April 02, 2021 at 9:56 am

      Do you have a recommendation for the nonstick baking sheet?

    • Dan Mikesell AKA DrDan says

      April 02, 2021 at 10:01 am

      Hi Cindy,

      Welcome to the blog.

      There are many available. I think most home cooks should generally use non-stick sheet pans. Having said that, I think I will change the wording in this recipe some. With all the oil, this works fine on normal sheet pans.

      Dan

  6. Sandra says

    March 07, 2019 at 6:34 pm

    5 stars
    These are the grandkids all time faves . They canโ€™t get enough of them. I usually par boil earlier in the day , smash them on a cookie sheet and then roast right before dinner. I find smashing with the oiled heel of my hand gives the best results, otherwise I usually overdo it with anything else. Great side dish. PS salt before roasting

    Reply
    • DrDan says

      March 10, 2019 at 10:30 pm

      Hi Sandra,

      Welcome to the blog.

      I have no excuse for not thinking about cooking ahead.

      Thanks for the tip, the note and the rating.
      Dan

  7. Molly says

    April 30, 2018 at 6:35 pm

    I have to give you credit because I've been making these for years since I saw your recipe way before this "smashed potato" craze where now a variation is everywhere so...thank you! I always have/will use your recipe.

    Reply
    • DrDan says

      May 08, 2018 at 1:27 pm

      Hi Molly,
      First, sorry for the delayed reply.
      When I did this recipe, all the blogs were doing it but it died after just a few months. They are tasty and easy.
      Thanks for the note.
      Dan

  8. Barbarainnc says

    March 16, 2018 at 4:50 pm

    Saw RR made these on her TV show, she put another sheet pan on top of the sheeted cooked potatoes and smashed them down. Yummy. ๐Ÿ˜Š โค ๐Ÿ˜Š

    Reply
    • DrDan says

      March 17, 2018 at 10:30 am

      I have seen that done. I'm better at one at a time.
      Thanks for the note and hint for those doing larger cookings.
      Dan

  9. Jack says

    February 19, 2015 at 5:48 pm

    Used this recipe last nite with white potatoes and wife and I loved them. I did use a small amount of sour cream and bacon bits. They were delicious and I loved the crunchiness . Will definitely use recipe again.

    Reply
  10. Aundrea says

    November 23, 2013 at 10:26 pm

    I'm making these tonight for the second time. They are delicious!
    Thank you for sharing. :)
    Aundrea

    Reply
  11. Chef Jeff says

    November 12, 2012 at 10:01 am

    Wow, I love your blog. Thank you for sharing your delicious food. These potatoes look wonderful and I am going to make them soon.

    Sincerely,

    Jeff

    Reply
  12. Chris says

    July 05, 2012 at 3:03 pm

    I haven't had crash potatoes in a while, I must fix that this weekend!

    Reply

DrDan imageHi, I'm DrDan.
Welcome to 101 Cooking for Two, the home of great everyday recipes with easy step-by-step photo instructions.
About DrDan

Pan Seared 30-min. Dinners

  • NY strip steak cut on an orange plate
    Pan Seared New York Strip Steak (Oven Finished & Juicy Every Time)
  • pork tenderloin on blue platter
    Pan Seared Oven Roasted Pork Tenderloin
  • cooked seared chicken breast on a white plate
    Pan Seared Oven Baked Chicken Breasts
  • filtet mignon with potatoes on a white plate
    How to Cook Filet Mignon in the Oven (Pan-Seared & Perfectly Juicy)
  • Pan Seared Oven Roasted Pork Chops from 101 Cooking for Two
    Pan Seared Oven Roasted Pork Chops
  • 30-Minute Boneless Pork Ribs (Oven-Baked Country-Style with BBQ Flavor)
SITES THAT I WORK WITH OR HAVE HAD RECIPES FEATURED OR REFERENCED.
SITES THAT I WORK WITH OR HAVE HAD RECIPES FEATURED OR REFERENCED.

Footer

BACK TO TOP
OF PAGE
Join the club
SUBSCRIBE TODAY

About

  • About DrDan and the Blog
  • Contact Me
  • Comment Policy
  • Guest Posts, Partnering, and Business Questions

Content

  • Food FAQ
  • Kitchen Reference Sheets
  • Recipes Featured in the Videos
  • Guide To Cooking for Two
  • Old Saved Recipes Collections

dogs by the pond

โ†‘ back to top โ†‘a

Privacy Policy | Terms of Service | Contact

COPYRIGHT ยฉ 2010-2025 101 COOKING FOR TWO. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED | BASED ON FOODIE PRO THEME