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Crispy Garlic Herb Smashed Potatoes

crispy garlic herb smashed potatoes - featured image

A simple and comforting side dish featuring baby potatoes smashed and roasted to crispy perfection, then drizzled with a fragrant brown butter garlic herb sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds baby potatoes (small red or Yukon gold)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 34 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Place 1.5 pounds of baby potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  2. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  3. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly until warm enough to handle.
  4. Arrange the potatoes on a rimmed baking sheet. Using a potato masher or the bottom of a sturdy glass, gently press down on each potato until about ½ inch thick, keeping some texture intact.
  5. Drizzle 2 tablespoons olive oil over the smashed potatoes. Sprinkle with salt and pepper evenly. Toss or use hands to coat each potato well.
  6. Roast the potatoes in the oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy on the edges.
  7. While roasting, melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Swirl occasionally until butter foams and turns golden brown with a nutty aroma (3-4 minutes).
  8. Add minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and thyme to the brown butter. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant and garlic softens but does not brown.
  9. Remove potatoes from oven and immediately drizzle the brown butter garlic herb sauce over them. Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and flaky sea salt. Serve warm.

Notes

Use small, uniform baby potatoes for best results. Avoid overboiling to prevent mushy potatoes. Flip potatoes halfway through roasting for even crispiness. Watch brown butter carefully to avoid burning. For dairy-free, substitute vegan butter or coconut oil. Reheat leftovers in oven or toaster oven to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy smashed potatoes, garlic herb potatoes, brown butter potatoes, easy side dish, roasted potatoes, baby potatoes