How to Make Perfectly Smashed Potatoes

Are you tired of the same old boring mashed potatoes at dinner? Then it’s time to switch it up and try making smashed potatoes. Smashed potatoes are a simple and tasty alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. The dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a last-minute side dish for a potluck.

To make smashed potatoes, simply boil small potatoes until they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. Then, place them on a baking sheet and use a fork or potato masher to smash them flat. Add your favorite seasonings and toppings, such as garlic, chives, or cheese, and pop them in the oven until they are crispy and golden brown. With a few simple steps, you can transform ordinary potatoes into a delicious and sophisticated side dish that will impress your guests.

Ingredients for Smashed Potatoes

To make a delicious smashed potatoes, you will need the following ingredients:

1. 2 lbs of potatoes
2. 4 tbsp of butter
3. 2 cloves of garlic, minced
4. 1/4 cup of milk
5. 1/4 cup of sour cream
6. Salt and pepper to taste
7. Optional toppings: shredded cheese, bacon bits, green onions

Step 1: Boiling the Potatoes

The first step to making smashed potatoes is to boil the potatoes. Wash the potatoes and peel them if desired. Cut the potatoes into quarters or chunks and place them in a large pot. Cover the potatoes with water and add a bit of salt to the water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat and cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Preparing the Garlic Butter

While the potatoes are cooking, prepare the garlic butter. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook it for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant, stirring constantly. Remove the garlic butter from the heat and set it aside.

Step 3: Smashing the Potatoes

When the potatoes are fully cooked, drain them in a colander and return them to the pot. Using a potato masher or fork, gently mash the potatoes until they are mostly crushed but still have some chunks. Add the garlic butter to the pot and mix it with the potatoes until well combined.

Step 4: Adding Milk and Sour Cream

Pour the milk and sour cream over the mashed potatoes and stir until it is well combined. The milk and sour cream will add creaminess to the potatoes, making them smoother and deliciously creamy.

Step 5: Seasoning the Potatoes

Season the smashed potatoes with salt and pepper to taste. Remember to taste the mashed potatoes along the way as you add seasonings, so you can adjust the amount of salt and pepper to your liking.

Step 6: Adding Optional Toppings

If you want to add some extra flavor to your smashed potatoes, add some optional toppings such as shredded cheese, bacon bits, or green onions. Sprinkle the toppings over the top of the mashed potatoes and serve immediately.

Step 7: Serving the Smashed Potatoes

Smashed potatoes are best served hot, so be sure to serve them immediately after making them. They are a perfect side dish for roasted meats, grilled veggies, or any kind of comfort food entrees. Enjoy your delicious smashed potatoes with your family and friends today!

Ingredients

Smashed potatoes may look like a simple dish, but choosing the right ingredients and cooking methods is crucial to ensure that the potatoes are not only mashed but savory as well. Here are the main ingredients you’ll need:

1. Potatoes

Choose the best potatoes that are suitable for mashing. Russet potatoes are the best option because they have high starch content and a fluffy texture that turns into a creamy mash. Avoid using waxy potatoes as they don’t have the same texture, which may result in a dense and sticky dish.

2. Butter

Unsalted butter is the preferred type of butter for mashed potatoes because you can control the saltiness of your dish. The texture of the butter will also ensure a smooth and creamy outcome.

3. Milk or Cream

Milk or cream can help loosen up the mashed potatoes, making it more creamy and delicious. While both these liquids work, heavy cream will make the potatoes more indulgent.

4. Salt and Pepper

Adding salt and pepper to your smashed potatoes will enhance the taste. But be careful not to overdo the salt. Adding a little white pepper will give it a subtle spiciness.

5. Cheese (optional)

For those who want a richer taste, add some cheese. Cheddar cheese is the most commonly used, but other types can be used to give the dish a unique flavor.

6. Parsley (optional)

Adding a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley on top of the potatoes can add some color and brightness to the dish.

7. Garlic (optional)

If you love garlic, adding a few crushed cloves can bring a new depth to the recipe.

8. Sour Cream (optional)

Not everyone likes sour cream, but its tangy taste can elevate the flavor of your smashed potatoes.

9. Bacon or Chives (optional)

Adding some crispy bacon or fresh chives can provide a delicious, savory flavor to your smashed potatoes.

10. Olive Oil (optional)

If you are looking for a dairy-free alternative or want to add some health benefits to your dish, replace butter with olive oil. It can result in a lighter and healthier mash.

In summary, the ingredients used in making smashed potatoes are flexible, which means that you can customize the recipe to your liking. With the right choice of ingredients, you can make a dish that will delight your taste buds.

Tools You Need to Make Smashed Potatoes

Smashed potatoes are a classic dish that can be served as a side to any meal. Traditionally, smashed potatoes are made by boiling potatoes until they are tender, then served with butter and salt. However, with the right tools, you can take your smashed potatoes to the next level. Here are the top five tools you need to make the perfect smashed potatoes:

Potatoes

The most crucial ingredient for smashed potatoes is, of course, potatoes. Pick potatoes that are firm and free from any cracks or soft spots. Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are the best varieties to use for mashed or smashed potatoes. Peel the potatoes, cut them into even-sized cubes, and rinse them with cold water to remove any excess starch.

Boiling and Draining Potatoes

Add the potatoes to a pot, cover with water, and boil for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. Test by inserting a fork; if it easily breaks apart, then the potatoes are cooked. Drain the potatoes in a colander and shake to remove any excess water. Return the potatoes to the pot and let them cool for a few minutes.

Mashing Potatoes

Use a potato masher to mash the potatoes to the desired consistency. Some people like their smashed potatoes with lumps, while others like them smooth. Mash the potatoes until they are just broken apart and then mix them with a fork to achieve the desired consistency.

Adding Flavors

Smashed potatoes can be made with a variety of flavors. Some common additions include butter, salt, pepper, sour cream, cheeses, garlic, chives, and bacon. Create unique flavor profiles by mixing and matching different ingredients. Remember to add the flavors in moderation and to taste the potatoes as you go.

Baking Smashed Potatoes

To get a crispy texture, preheat your oven to 450 degrees F and lay the mashed potatoes out on a lightly greased baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Sprinkle additional salt or other seasonings to taste, and enjoy your delicious and crispy smashed potatoes!

Say Goodbye to Regular Mashed Potatoes: Try Making Smashed Potatoes Now!

Now that you know the simple steps to make this flavorful dish, it’s time to switch things up and say goodbye to regular mashed potatoes. Remember to experiment with different toppings and flavors to make your own unique version of smashed potatoes. We hope you’ve enjoyed this recipe and we can’t wait for you to try it out yourself. Thanks for reading and come back soon for more easy-to-follow recipes that will make your taste buds dance with joy!