When it comes to potatoes, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy them—mashed, roasted, fried, or baked. But if you’re looking for a side dish that’s as rustic as it is irresistible, Garlic Smashed Potatoes deserve a spot on your table. They’re golden, crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and packed with garlicky flavor. Best of all, they’re easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough for dinner parties.
What Makes Garlic Smashed Potatoes Special?
Unlike mashed potatoes, which are creamy and smooth, smashed potatoes are all about texture. Small whole potatoes are first boiled until tender, then gently smashed to create lots of ridges and edges. Those uneven surfaces crisp beautifully in the oven, soaking up the flavors of garlic and herbs.
The result? A dish that’s part comfort food, part gourmet side—hearty, aromatic, and impossible to stop eating.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make simple and crispy garlic smashed potatoes, you’ll need:
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1 ½ pounds baby potatoes (red or Yukon gold work best)
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3 tablespoons olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced (or roasted for a milder flavor)
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped (optional)
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Fresh parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions