Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Butter: Your New Go-To Comfort Food
Are you looking for a deliciously crispy, garlicky, and utterly comforting side dish? Look no further! Crispy smashed potatoes with garlic butter are the answer to your culinary dreams. These little potato gems are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and drenched in a mouth-watering garlic butter sauce. They’re simple enough to make on a weeknight, yet fancy enough to impress guests at your next dinner party. Follow these easy steps to create this scrumptious dish in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds of small potatoes (baby potatoes work great)
- Salt (for boiling the potatoes and to taste)
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 3-4 cloves of garlic (minced)
- Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme, optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Start by washing your potatoes thoroughly to get rid of any dirt. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a generous pinch of salt. The salt helps to flavor the potatoes right from the start. Gently add your potatoes to the boiling water and let them cook until they’re tender. This should take about 20-25 minutes depending on the size of your potatoes. You’ll know they’re done when you can easily pierce them with a fork.
Step 2: Preheat Your Oven
While your potatoes are boiling, get your oven ready by preheating it to 425°F (220°C). This high heat is crucial for getting those potatoes nice and crispy.
Step 3: Smash ‘Em
Once your potatoes are boiled and cooled slightly, place them on a greased baking sheet. Now comes the fun part – smashing them! You can use the bottom of a glass, a potato masher, or even your hand. Press down gently until each potato is flattened but still in one piece. Be careful not to over-smash; you want them to hold together.
Step 4: Season and Bake
Drizzle olive oil over each smashed potato. Make sure both sides are coated by flipping them over or using a brush. This oil not only adds flavor but also ensures they’ll turn out crispy. Season with a sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden and crispy around the edges.
Step 5: Garlic Butter Goodness
While your potatoes are transforming into crispy delights, it’s time to make the garlic butter sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and, if you’re using them, your herbs. Let the mixture cook for about 1-2 minutes, just until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. The key here is to infuse the butter with all that garlicky goodness without burning the garlic.
Step 6: The Final Touch
Once your potatoes are beautifully crispy, take them out of the oven. While they’re still hot, pour that aromatic garlic butter over them, making sure each potato gets a generous coating. If you like, now is the time to sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor and a touch of luxury.
Finish them off with a scattering of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Not only does it add a fresh flavor contrast, but it also makes your dish look beautiful.
And there you have it! Crispy smashed potatoes with garlic butter that are sure to become a staple in your cookbook. They’re perfect as a side dish for your favorite protein, but honestly, they’re so good you might just want to eat them as a main! Whether it’s a cozy night in or a dinner party with friends, these potatoes are guaranteed to impress.
Remember, cooking is all about making it your own. Feel free to experiment with different herbs like rosemary or thyme, or even add a sprinkle of chili flakes for a bit of heat. The beauty of this dish is its simplicity and versatility. Now, go forth and smash those potatoes – your taste buds will thank you!
