. 1. Boiling and salting the potatoes: Start by placing the baby Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold water and add a good pinch of salt. This step helps season the potatoes while cooking. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes. You want them fork-tender, which means a fork should easily pierce them. 2. Cooling and draining the potatoes: Once the potatoes are tender, drain the water. Return the potatoes to the pot, allowing them to cool slightly. This step is key, as it helps the potatoes hold their shape when smashed. 1. Techniques for smashing the potatoes: Grab the bottom of a glass or a potato masher. Gently smash each potato until it flattens but stays in one piece. This method gives you a nice texture. Aim for a rustic look, as it adds charm to the dish. 2. Mixing garlic butter and cream: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, and heavy cream. Stir until mixed well. Pour this garlic butter mixture over the smashed potatoes. Make sure every potato gets a good coating. This adds a rich flavor that makes the dish shine. 1. Preparing the baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps with easy cleanup and prevents sticking. 2. Bake time and temperature settings: Place the smashed potatoes on the baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. You're looking for crispy, golden edges. This is when the magic happens, turning creamy potatoes into a delightful dish. For the full recipe, check the section above. Enjoy your cooking! To avoid overcooking the potatoes, watch the clock. Boil them for 15-20 minutes. Check for fork-tenderness. If they are too soft, they become mushy when smashed. For extra crispiness, bake them a bit longer. Add five more minutes to the cook time for a golden edge. You can add herbs and spices for fun twists. Try rosemary, thyme, or paprika for a new taste. You can also change the toppings. Crumbled bacon, cheese, or sour cream work great. Experiment with what you love! For plating, arrange the smashed potatoes nicely on a bright platter. A colorful dish makes the food pop. Garnish with fresh chives for a lovely look. You can also sprinkle extra toppings for a stunning finish. Serve right away for the best taste and texture. For more details, check the Full Recipe. {{image_2}} You can swap baby Yukon Gold potatoes for red potatoes or sweet potatoes. Red potatoes add a creamy texture, while sweet potatoes provide a natural sweetness. Mixing different potato types can add fun flavors and colors to your dish. Try a blend of Yukon and red potatoes for a tasty twist! Adding cheese can elevate your smashed potatoes. Consider using sharp cheddar or creamy goat cheese for a richer taste. You can even mix in some crumbled feta for a tangy kick. Spices also work wonders. Sprinkle in garlic powder, paprika, or fresh herbs like rosemary for an extra burst of flavor. If you want to make your smashed potatoes vegan, use olive oil instead of butter and coconut cream instead of heavy cream. For a dairy-free option, almond milk can also work well. Plus, smashed potatoes are naturally gluten-free, so they fit into many diets without any changes. Enjoy experimenting with these variations to find your perfect flavor! To keep your smashed potatoes fresh, store them in a safe way. First, let the potatoes cool to room temperature. Then, place them in an airtight container. This helps keep moisture out. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. The best containers for storage are glass or plastic with tight lids. Make sure they are clean and dry before adding the potatoes. If you don't have a container, you can wrap the potatoes tightly in plastic wrap. When it’s time to eat your leftovers, reheating is key. You want to keep that creamy texture. The best way is to use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the potatoes on a baking sheet. Cover them with foil to keep moisture in. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until they are warm. If you want to use leftovers in other dishes, try adding them to soups or casseroles. You can mash them up for a creamy soup base. Another fun idea is to mix them into a breakfast hash with eggs and veggies. There are many ways to enjoy your smashed potatoes again! What is the best potato for smashing? The best potato for smashing is the baby Yukon Gold. They have a creamy texture and a buttery flavor. Other good options include red potatoes or russet potatoes. These potatoes hold their shape well when cooked. They also become fluffy and tender, making them perfect for smashing. Can I make smashed potatoes ahead of time? Yes, you can make smashed potatoes ahead of time. Cook and smash them as directed. Then, store them in the fridge for up to two days. When ready to serve, reheat them in the oven. This keeps them crispy on the outside and soft inside. What to do if potatoes are too mushy? If your potatoes are too mushy, they may have been overcooked. To fix this, drain them well and let them dry for a few minutes. You can also add a bit more cream and butter to help improve the texture. This will make them creamier and reduce the mushiness. How can I make them crispier? To make your smashed potatoes crispier, increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Bake them longer for a nice golden color. You can also brush them with more melted butter before baking. Using a hot baking sheet can also help them crisp up nicely. Best side dishes to serve with smashed potatoes Smashed potatoes pair well with various dishes. Meat lovers can enjoy them with roasted chicken or grilled steak. They also go well with a fresh salad or steamed veggies. For a lighter meal, serve them with fish or a veggie stir-fry. Wine pairings for a complete meal experience For wine, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc works well. It complements the creamy potatoes nicely. If you prefer red, try a light Pinot Noir. This wine balances the flavors without overpowering them. Enjoy your meal with the right drink for a complete experience! Easy smashed potatoes are simple yet delicious. We explored key ingredients like Yukon Gold potatoes, butter, and garlic. I shared step-by-step instructions on how to boil, smash, and bake them. You learned tips for perfecting texture and ways to elevate flavors with garnishes and spices. Experiment with variations or make dietary adjustments. Proper storage techniques and reheating tips keep leftovers tasty. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy flavorful smashed potatoes anytime. Your friends and family will love them!](https://juliesdish.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/96884093-c4da-48bf-b0b3-1f113c14438d-250x250.webp)
Easy Smashed Potatoes
Discover the delightful flavor of Sassy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic & Chives! This simple yet elegant recipe features creamy Yukon Gold potatoes, rich garlic butter, and fresh chives, perfect for impressing your guests or enjoying a cozy meal at home. With just a few easy steps, you can create crispy, golden potatoes that are sure to be a hit. Click through for the full recipe and elevate your dining experience today!