Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes
Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re anything like me, a busy parent juggling work and family dinners, you’ll appreciate how this garlic butter smashed potatoes recipe brings big flavors to the table without much fuss. It’s straightforward to whip up, using just a handful of ingredients that turn ordinary potatoes into something crispy and irresistible. Plus, with its mix of health benefits and adaptability, it’s become one of my go-to sides for making meals feel special every time.
This dish is packed with nutrition from baby Yukon Gold potatoes, which are full of vitamins and antioxidants that support your daily energy needs. I love how it fits into a balanced diet, offering heart-healthy components without skimping on taste. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or experimenting in the kitchen, these potatoes adapt easily to various preferences, making them a hit for everyone from students to seniors looking for simple, joyful meals.
The bold garlic butter coating gives a savory punch that elevates your dinner without overwhelming other dishes. I’ve made this on weeknights when I need something quick, and it always gets rave reviews. It’s versatile enough to pair with proteins or stand alone, turning your everyday meal into a memorable moment around the table.
Jump To
- 1. Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes
- 2. Essential Ingredients for Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes
- 3. How to Prepare the Perfect Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes: Step-by-Step Guide
- 4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes
- 5. Mastering Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes: Advanced Tips and Variations
- 6. How to Store Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes: Best Practices
- 7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes
- 8. Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes
Essential Ingredients for Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes
When I first tried this recipe, I focused on fresh, simple ingredients that create that perfect crispy texture. Let’s break down what you need to make these potatoes shine. I’ll list everything out clearly so you can shop and prep with ease.
- 1 ½ lb (approximately 680 g) baby Yukon Gold potatoes, about 10-14 pieces
- 2 Tbsp + ¾ tsp kosher salt, divided
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter (½ stick)
- 4 garlic cloves, finely grated (approximately 1 Tbsp)
- 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Special Dietary Options:
- Vegan: Swap the butter with plant-based margarine or olive oil to keep things creamy without dairy.
- Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so no changes needed.
- Low-calorie: Opt for a light butter alternative or use less to cut down on fat while maintaining flavor.
All these ingredients are free of common allergens like gluten, nuts, and soy, making them suitable for vegetarian or pescatarian diets. I always stock up on baby Yukon Golds because they have that creamy texture that crisps up beautifully.
How to Prepare the Perfect Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes: Step-by-Step Guide
Gathering around the kitchen counter with my family, I find joy in simple steps that lead to amazing results. This garlic butter smashed potatoes recipe starts with prepping your potatoes just right. First, scrub the potatoes clean and place them in a saucepan, covering them with cold water by about 1 inch. Add 2 Tbsp kosher salt, bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes until tender. Drain them well to keep that texture intact.
Next, in the same pot off the heat, melt the butter over low heat and stir in the finely grated garlic, chopped parsley, black pepper, and the remaining ¾ tsp kosher salt. This creates a flavorful coating that’s hard to resist. For a smooth transition, for more ideas on pairing sides, check out my crispy potatoes with saucy beef recipe on the blog.
Return the drained potatoes to the pot and toss them until they’re evenly coated. Transfer to a rimmed baking sheet and press each one to about ¾-inch thickness using a greased glass or measuring cup. Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C), roast on the lower rack for about 10 minutes until golden-brown underneath, then move to the upper rack for another 10-15 minutes until crispy on top. Finally, serve them hot, maybe with a little extra parsley for a fresh pop. The whole process, including prep in 10 minutes and cooking for about 50 minutes, makes it a weekend favorite in my house.
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes
One thing I love about cooking is how you can tweak recipes to fit your lifestyle, just like I do for my family. With garlic butter smashed potatoes, it’s easy to swap ingredients for different dietary needs. For instance, if you’re aiming for a sweeter twist, replace baby Yukon Gold potatoes with sweet potatoes to boost nutrients and add a fun flavor variation.
You can use fingerling potatoes for a different texture that still holds up well when smashed. To amp up the protein, especially on vegan nights, serve these alongside grilled tofu or tempeh. For the garlic butter part, swap parsley with cilantro or chives if you want a fresh herb change, or add smoked paprika for a spicy kick that my kids enjoy on occasion.
Other options include using garlic-infused olive oil instead of butter for a low-fat version, or mixing in vegan cheese for a dairy-free cheesy vibe. These changes keep the dish adaptable while honoring seasonal ingredients and personal tastes, making it perfect for busy professionals or baking enthusiasts experimenting at home.
Mastering Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes: Advanced Tips and Variations
Pro Cooking Techniques
Over time, I’ve picked up tricks that take this garlic butter smashed potatoes recipe from good to great. For starters, parboil the potatoes with their skins on to lock in nutrients and get that ideal crispy edge. Using a cast-iron skillet for roasting can make the outsides even crunchier, which is something I swear by for family gatherings.
Flavor Variations
When I experiment, I love adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the garlic butter mixture for extra depth. You could also sprinkle in parmesan cheese if you’re not going dairy-free. For a complete meal idea that pairs well, try my loaded baked potato chicken casserole, which complements these potatoes perfectly.
Presentation and Make-Ahead Options
To make it visually appealing, serve on a simple plate with fresh herbs and a dash of sea salt. For make-ahead ease, boil the potatoes up to two days in advance and refrigerate them; they roast just as well later. This tip has saved me on hectic days, ensuring dinner is ready without last-minute stress.
How to Store Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes: Best Practices
As someone who meal preps often, storing leftovers is key to keeping meals fresh. For garlic butter smashed potatoes, pop them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze, portion them into freezer-safe bags and they last about 2 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge first.
When reheating, use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to bring back that crispiness I avoid the microwave to prevent sogginess. This method works wonders for my weekly routine, turning these potatoes into a convenient side for any day of the week.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes
What type of potatoes work best for garlic butter smashed potatoes?
Baby Yukon gold potatoes are ideal for garlic butter smashed potatoes because of their creamy texture and thin skins, which crisp up nicely when smashed and roasted. However, you can use other waxy or all-purpose potatoes like red potatoes or fingerlings for a similar result. Avoid starchy potatoes like russets as they may fall apart during boiling and smashing.
How do I prepare garlic butter smashed potatoes step-by-step?
Start by boiling whole baby potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return them to the pot to dry. Melt butter in the pot and add finely grated garlic and chopped parsley. Toss the potatoes in the garlic butter mixture. Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and gently press each with the bottom of a glass or masher until flattened but still intact. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes until crispy and golden.
Can I customize the flavor of garlic butter smashed potatoes?
Yes, you can adjust the flavor by adding herbs and spices. Try adding rosemary, thyme, or chives for a fresh herb twist. For extra heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes or smoked paprika. A squeeze of lemon juice after baking adds brightness. You can also mix Parmesan cheese into the butter for a savory, cheesy crust.
Is it possible to prepare smashed potatoes ahead of time?
You can boil the potatoes a day or two in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Before serving, toss the pre-cooked potatoes in garlic butter, smash them, and roast until crispy. This method saves time on the day of serving without compromising texture or flavor.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when making smashed potatoes?
Avoid overboiling the potatoes, which can cause them to fall apart during smashing. Also, don’t smash them too thin or they may break apart completely. Use finely grated garlic to prevent a burnt or bitter taste. Lastly, be sure to drizzle enough butter for flavor and crispiness but not so much that the potatoes become soggy.
Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
🥔 Crispy smashed potatoes with buttery garlic make a satisfying side that’s ready in less than an hour.
🧄 The simple technique of boiling then roasting gives a fluffy interior and a golden, crunchy exterior.
Ingredients
– 1 ½ lb (approximately 680 g) baby Yukon Gold potatoes, about 10-14 pieces
– 2 Tbsp + ¾ tsp kosher salt, divided
– 4 Tbsp unsalted butter (½ stick)
– 4 garlic cloves, finely grated (approximately 1 Tbsp)
– 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
– ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
1-Gathering around the kitchen counter with my family, I find joy in simple steps that lead to amazing results. This garlic butter smashed potatoes recipe starts with prepping your potatoes just right. First, scrub the potatoes clean and place them in a saucepan, covering them with cold water by about 1 inch. Add 2 Tbsp kosher salt, bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes until tender. Drain them well to keep that texture intact.
2-Next, in the same pot off the heat, melt the butter over low heat and stir in the finely grated garlic, chopped parsley, black pepper, and the remaining ¾ tsp kosher salt. This creates a flavorful coating that’s hard to resist. For a smooth transition, for more ideas on pairing sides, check out my crispy potatoes with saucy beef recipe on the blog.
3-Return the drained potatoes to the pot and toss them until they’re evenly coated. Transfer to a rimmed baking sheet and press each one to about ¾-inch thickness using a greased glass or measuring cup. Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C), roast on the lower rack for about 10 minutes until golden-brown underneath, then move to the upper rack for another 10-15 minutes until crispy on top. Finally, serve them hot, maybe with a little extra parsley for a fresh pop. The whole process, including prep in 10 minutes and cooking for about 50 minutes, makes it a weekend favorite in my house.
Notes
🥔 For make‑ahead convenience, boil the potatoes up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate; they roast just as well when reheated.
⏰ Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days and re‑heat in a hot oven to restore crispness.
🔪 Grate garlic finely to prevent burning and keep the flavor mellow.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (≈ 2 potatoes)
- Calories: 158 kcal per serving
- Sugar: 0.9 g
- Sodium: 292 mg
- Fat: 7.8 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20.4 g
- Fiber: 2.6 g
- Protein: 2.5 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: Garlic Butter Potatoes, Smashed Potatoes, Crispy Side Dish, Easy Roasted Potatoes