Table of Contents

The BEST EVER Salty Herbed Smashed Red Potatoes

As the cool breeze of autumn settles in, there’s something undeniably comforting about cozying up with a piping hot bowl of hearty potatoes. Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table where creamy, buttery potatoes were always the star of the meal. The aroma of garlic and fresh herbs wafting through the kitchen creates a sense of home that’s hard to resist. That’s why I’m delighted to share with you The BEST EVER Salty Herbed Smashed Red Potatoes. This is the perfect dish for those chilly evenings when you want to indulge in something warm and crispy. From an easy weeknight dinner to a special gathering, this is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy on the Outside, Creamy on the Inside: These potatoes deliver that delightful crunch with every bite, while the insides are soft and tender.
Packed with Flavor: With fresh herbs and roasted garlic, this dish is bursting with zesty, earthy goodness.
Quick and Simple: This recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks, making it a fantastic easy weeknight dinner option.
No Fancy Equipment Needed: Just a pot for boiling and a baking sheet for roasting — you don’t need anything fancy to create magical flavors.
Customizable and Versatile: You can add various toppings or flavor combinations to suit your mood, making it ideal for any occasion.

What You’ll Need

To whip up The BEST EVER Salty Herbed Smashed Red Potatoes, gather these simple ingredients:

2 pounds red potatoes
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley)
1-2 teaspoons sea salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
4 cloves garlic, minced

Let’s Make It Together

Ready to dive into this cozy dish? Here’s how you can create the ultimate smashed potatoes that will warm your heart and home:

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Wash and scrub the red potatoes under cold running water. In a large pot, boil them in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Once tender, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, arrange the potatoes evenly. With the back of a fork or the bottom of a cup, gently smash each potato until flattened but still intact.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, fresh herbs, sea salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Brush the herb mixture generously over the smashed potatoes, ensuring each one has that lovely garlicky goodness.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are crispy and golden.
Serve warm, and enjoy the comforting flavors!

Fun Ways to Customize It

While the classic recipe is a dream, don’t hesitate to get creative! Here are some delicious variations to try:

Cheesy Delight: Add a sprinkle of your favorite cheese (like Parmesan or cheddar) on top of the potatoes in the last few minutes of baking for an indulgent touch.
Spicy Kick: Toss in crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a zesty, spicy twist.
Herbed Up: Experiment with different herb combinations. Chives and dill bring a fresh, bright flavor, perfect for springtime!
Umami Boost: Top with sautéed mushrooms or crispy turkey bacon for an added twist of flavor and texture.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

To ensure your smashed potatoes turn out perfectly every time, here are my best kitchen secrets:

Make Ahead: You can prep the potatoes a few hours in advance. Boil and smash them, then store them in the fridge. Brush them with the herb mixture right before baking.
Proper Sizing: Aim for uniform sizes when smashing; larger pieces may take longer to crisp, while smaller ones can burn more easily.
Add a Dip: Pair these potatoes with a creamy dip, like sour cream mixed with chives, for an extra special touch.
Storage: Leftover smashed potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for optimal crispiness!

What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown

Here’s a glance at the nutrition information per serving (based on 4 servings):

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 250
Carbohydrates: 35g
Sugar: 2g
Fat: 12g
Protein: 4g
Sodium: Varies based on salt used

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! You can prepare the potatoes a few hours in advance by boiling and smashing them. Just reheat with the herb mixture before baking.

Can I use different ingredients?
Of course! Feel free to swap out herbs or even add spices according to your taste preferences.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep them crispy.

How long does it last?
These smashed potatoes will last for about 3 days in the fridge if stored correctly. Just remember, they taste best fresh and crispy!

A Cozy Closing Note

As you gather around the table with family and friends, these BEST EVER Salty Herbed Smashed Red Potatoes will surely create smiles and warm hearts. They are more than just a side dish; they are a delicious testament to cozy, home-cooked recipes that nurture us. Don’t forget to save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can return to this comforting classic whenever you need a little indulgence. Happy cooking!