Yields: About 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40-55 minutes
Ingredients
- 1.5 – 2 lbs small new potatoes (red or yellow work best)
- 3-4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, but delicious)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried herbs of your choice (rosemary, oregano, thyme, Italian seasoning)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Equipment
- Large pot
- Baking Sheet
- Potato masher or heavy glass/mug
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and scrub the potatoes, leaving the skins on.
- Initial Boil: Add potatoes to a large pot, cover with cold water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook until fork-tender, about 20-25 minutes.
- Drain and Dry: Carefully drain the potatoes in a colander. Let them sit in the colander for about 5 minutes to release steam and dry out a bit. This helps achieve extra crispiness.
- Flavor Time: While the potatoes are drying, mix together the olive oil, melted butter (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs, a pinch of salt, and a few grinds of black pepper.
- Smash! Arrange the potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with oil. Using a potato masher or the bottom of a heavy glass, gently smash each potato until about ½ inch thick.
- Dress the Potatoes: Drizzle the flavored oil mixture over the smashed potatoes, making sure they’re nicely coated.
- Roast to Perfection: Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are deeply golden brown and crispy around the edges. Rotate the pan halfway for even cooking.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or chives (if desired) and additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately for the best crispy texture.
Tips & Variations
- Potato Choice: New potatoes are best due to their thin skin and creamy texture. Small red or Yukon Gold potatoes are fantastic.
- Garlic Lover? For intense garlic flavor, mince a clove or two of fresh garlic and infuse it in the melted butter. Discard the garlic before using the butter.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Herby: Use fresh herbs if you have them. Mince them finely and add along with the dried herbs.
