The secret to these incredibly crispy smashed potatoes is a simple boil, smash, and roast method! These oven smashed potatoes are not only delicious, but they’re easy to make too.
These smashed potatoes in the oven have been my favorite potato recipe for years. They bake up with irresistibly crispy, golden edges and perfectly fluffy centers. Finished with flaky salt and fresh herbs, you’ll think you’ve died and gone to potato heaven.
It’s a potato lover’s dream come true, for sure. But it’s also a fairly basic and uncomplicated recipe, so it’s perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Give them a try and see for yourself!
Ingredients in Smashed Potatoes in the Oven
This ingredient setup stays minimal while creating great texture and flavor.
How to Make Smashed Potatoes in the Oven
This recipe follows a simple process, and each step builds toward that crispy finish.
1. Boil the potatoes
Start by placing the potatoes in a pot of salted water. Cook them until they turn fork tender but still hold their shape. This step softens the inside so they smash easily later.
2. Preheat the oven
Set the oven to a high temperature so the potatoes crisp properly. A hot oven helps create those golden edges instead of leaving them soft.
3. Drain and dry
Remove the potatoes from the water and let them sit for a few minutes. Allowing excess moisture to evaporate helps them crisp better in the oven.
4. Arrange on a tray
Place the potatoes on a lined baking sheet with space between each one. Spacing keeps them from steaming and allows proper roasting.
5. Smash the potatoes
Use the bottom of a glass or a fork to gently press each potato until it flattens slightly. Do not press too hard since you want them to stay in one piece.
6. Season well
Drizzle olive oil and melted butter over the potatoes. Sprinkle garlic, salt, and pepper evenly so every piece gets coated.
7. Roast until crispy
Place the tray in the oven and roast until the edges turn golden and crisp. Flip once if needed to get even browning on both sides.
8. Finish and serve
Remove from the oven and sprinkle fresh herbs on top. Serve warm while the edges stay crisp and the centers remain soft.
How to Serve Smashed Potatoes in the Oven
These potatoes pair easily with grilled chicken, roasted meats, or even simple vegetable dishes. Their crispy texture adds a nice contrast to softer mains.
For a more casual plate, serve them with dips like garlic sauce or yogurt-based dressing. The crispy edges make them perfect for dipping and sharing.
They also work well for gatherings since they stay flavorful even after sitting for a bit. Arrange them on a platter with herbs sprinkled on top for a clean and inviting look.
Recipe Tips
- Boil potatoes just until tender to avoid breaking when smashing.
- Let potatoes dry before roasting for better crisp texture.
- Use enough oil to coat edges so they turn golden.
- Do not overcrowd the tray to prevent steaming.
- Smash gently to keep potatoes intact.
- Flip halfway through roasting for even crisping.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
- Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat in the oven to bring back crispiness.
Smashed Potatoes in the Oven
Course: SidesCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes40
minutesIngredients
1½ pounds baby potatoes
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter melted
2 cloves garlic minced
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley or thyme chopped
Directions
- Boil the potatoes:
Start by placing the potatoes in a pot of salted water. Cook them until they turn fork tender but still hold their shape. This step softens the inside so they smash easily later. - Preheat the oven:
Set the oven to a high temperature so the potatoes crisp properly. A hot oven helps create those golden edges instead of leaving them soft. - Drain and dry:
Remove the potatoes from the water and let them sit for a few minutes. Allowing excess moisture to evaporate helps them crisp better in the oven. - Arrange on a tray:
Place the potatoes on a lined baking sheet with space between each one. Spacing keeps them from steaming and allows proper roasting. - Smash the potatoes:
Use the bottom of a glass or a fork to gently press each potato until it flattens slightly. Do not press too hard since you want them to stay in one piece. - Season well:
Drizzle olive oil and melted butter over the potatoes. Sprinkle garlic, salt, and pepper evenly so every piece gets coated. - Roast until crispy:
Place the tray in the oven and roast until the edges turn golden and crisp. Flip once if needed to get even browning on both sides. - Finish and serve:
Remove from the oven and sprinkle fresh herbs on top. Serve warm while the edges stay crisp and the centers remain soft.






