The Ultimate Herby Smashed Potatoes (Crispy & Flavorful!)
Imagine the most perfect potato you can dream of. Picture a small, tender potato, boiled until creamy, then literally smashed flat and pan-fried in an aromatic, herb-infused garlic oil until it has an unbelievably crispy, golden-brown crust and a soft, fluffy interior. That, my friends, is the ridiculously delicious, can’t-stop-eating-them magic of these Herby Smashed Potatoes. This isn’t just a side dish; it’s a true potato masterpiece, and it is, without a doubt, the best way you will ever eat a potato.
I promise you, from the moment the incredible aroma of garlic and rosemary fills your kitchen, you will be counting down the seconds until these are ready. They are a true show-stopper, a rustic yet elegant side dish that is perfect for a holiday feast, a special Sunday dinner, or to elevate any weeknight meal. Every single bite is a perfect harmony of crispy, creamy, salty, and herbaceous.
Get ready to master the art of the perfect smashed potato and create a stunning, unforgettable side dish that will steal the show every single time.
Why These Will Be Your New Favorite Potatoes!
You are going to be completely amazed by how much incredible flavor and texture comes from this simple recipe. It’s a guaranteed hit. Here’s why you have to make them:
- The Ultimate Crispy-Creamy Texture: The boil-then-smash-then-fry method is the secret to a potato that has a shatteringly crisp, golden-brown exterior and a wonderfully soft, fluffy, and creamy interior.
- Infused with Incredible Herb and Garlic Flavor: Frying the potatoes in an oil that has been infused with smashed garlic and fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme ensures that every single bite is packed with aromatic, savory flavor.
Recipe Snapshot
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 45 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour |
| Servings | 4-5 servings |
| Calories | 257 kcal per serving |
| Course | Side Dish |
| Cuisine | American / European |
| Difficulty/Method | Easy / Stovetop |
Your Shopping List for These Crispy Potatoes
This recipe uses a handful of simple, powerful ingredients to create something truly special. Here’s what you’ll need:
→ For the Potatoes
- 1 1/2- 2 lbs thin-skinned potatoes → Small red, purple, or Yukon Gold potatoes are perfect. Their waxy texture holds up beautifully.
- 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided → Use a good quality oil for the best flavor.
- 6 garlic cloves, smashed → Don’t mince them! Just give them a good whack with the side of a knife.
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs → Rosemary, thyme, sage, or a combination are all fantastic choices.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chili pepper flakes or Aleppo pepper → To taste, for a final kick of warmth.
Let’s Get Smashing! Your Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to create the best potatoes of your life? This simple, three-part process is so rewarding.
Crispy Herbed Smashed Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place whole potatoes in a large pot and cover with salted water. Bring to a boil, then cover, lower heat, and simmer for 20-30 minutes, until very fork-tender. Drain and let cool.
- When ready to cook, smash the cooled potatoes with a potato masher or the bottom of a glass until they are flattened to about 3/4 inch thick.
- Heat 2-3 tablespoons olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the smashed garlic cloves and cook until fragrant and golden. Add the herbs and cook for 45-60 seconds more. Remove the garlic and herbs with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Season the oil in the pan with salt and pepper. Add the smashed potatoes in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Season the tops of the potatoes.
- Fry for 5-7 minutes per side, without moving them, until a deep, golden-brown crust forms. Add more oil when you flip if needed.
- Transfer the crispy potatoes to a serving platter. Chop up the reserved crispy garlic and herbs and sprinkle them over the potatoes.
- Add chili flakes if desired and serve immediately.
