Forget French Fries: These Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes Are Way Better

If there is one side dish that has completely taken over the internet lately, it’s Crispy  Smashed Potatoes. And for good reason.

Imagine the crispy, golden edges of a french fry combined with the creamy, fluffy center of a mashed potato. Now, drown that in garlic herb butter. Yes, it is exactly as good as it sounds.

I’ve tried a dozen ways to roast potatoes, but this “smash” method is a total game-changer. Whether you are looking for the perfect side dish for steak, roasted chicken, or just a comfort food snack, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Insane Texture: The ratio of crispy skin to fluffy inside is unmatched.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely have everything in your pantry right now.
• Fun to Make: “Smashing” the potatoes is actually really satisfying!
• Versatile: You can switch up the seasonings (try parmesan, rosemary, or even chili flakes).

The Secret to Extra Crispiness

Before we get to the recipe, I have to share the one trick that makes these potatoes restaurant-quality: Steam Drying.

After you boil the potatoes, drain them and let them sit in the colander for about 5 minutes. This allows the excess moisture to evaporate. Less water means more crunch when they hit the hot oven. If you skip this step, your potatoes might turn out soggy instead of crispy.

Ingredients You Need

• Baby Potatoes: Look for Yukon Gold or red baby potatoes. They have the best creamy texture and thin skins.
• Butter & Oil: I use a mix. Oil helps them crisp up at high heat, and butter adds that rich flavor.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is best. Powder works, but fresh is superior here.
• Fresh Herbs: Parsley, dill, or rosemary.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Flaky sea salt is a nice finishing touch if you have it.

How to Make Perfect Smashed Potatoes

Step 1: The Boil

Place your cleaned potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook until they are “fork-tender” (usually 15-20 minutes). You want them soft enough to smash, but not falling apart.

Step 2: The Smash

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Place your drained, steam-dried potatoes on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Now, the fun part. Use the bottom of a heavy glass or a potato masher to gently press down on each potato until it flattens.

Tip: Don’t smash them too thin, or they will break apart. Aim for about ½ inch thickness.

Step 3: The Seasoning

In a small bowl, mix your melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, and seasonings. Brush this golden liquid generously over each smashed potato. Make sure to get into all the little cracks and crevices.

Step 4: The Roast

Bake for 25-30 minutes. You are looking for deep golden brown edges and a crispy surface. If you want them extra crunchy, you can flip them halfway through, but it’s not strictly necessary.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with fresh chopped herbs and a little extra sea salt. Serve hot!

Can I Make These in an Air Fryer?

Absolutely! The Air Fryer is actually perfect for this if you are making a smaller batch.

1. Boil and smash the potatoes as usual.
2. Place them in the air fryer basket (don’t overcrowd).
3. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes until crispy.

What to Serve With Smashed Potatoes

These are the ultimate side dish. They pair perfectly with:

• Juicy Steak
• Pan-Seared Salmon
• Garlic Roasted Chicken
• Or just dip them in a spicy mayo sauce as a snack!

{
“@context”: “https://schema.org/”,
“@type”: “Recipe”,
“name”: “Crispy Garlic Smashed Potatoes”,
“image”: [
“YOUR-IMAGE-URL-HERE.jpg”
],
“author”: {
“@type”: “Person”,
“name”: “RecipeCrave Team”
},
“datePublished”: “2026-01-24”,
“description”: “The viral crispy smashed potatoes recipe. Crispy edges, fluffy centers, and garlic butter flavor.”,
“prepTime”: “PT10M”,
“cookTime”: “PT30M”,
“totalTime”: “PT40M”,
“keywords”: “smashed potatoes, crispy potatoes, viral potato recipe, garlic butter potatoes”,
“recipeYield”: “4 servings”,
“recipeCategory”: “Side Dish”,
“recipeCuisine”: “American”,
“nutrition”: {
“@type”: “NutritionInformation”,
“calories”: “280 calories”
},
“recipeIngredient”: [
“1.5 lbs Baby Potatoes”,
“2 tbsp Olive Oil”,
“2 tbsp Unsalted Butter”,
“3 cloves Garlic”,
“1 tsp Salt”,
“1/2 tsp Black Pepper”,
“1 tbsp Fresh Parsley”
],
“recipeInstructions”: [
{
“@type”: “HowToStep”,
“name”: “Boil Potatoes”,
“text”: “Boil potatoes in salted water until tender (approx 20 mins).”
},
{
“@type”: “HowToStep”,
“name”: “Smash”,
“text”: “Drain, dry, and smash potatoes flat on a baking sheet.”
},
{
“@type”: “HowToStep”,
“name”: “Season”,
“text”: “Brush with garlic butter and oil mixture.”
},
{
“@type”: “HowToStep”,
“name”: “Bake”,
“text”: “Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes until crispy.”
}
]
}

Crispy Garlic Smashed Potatoes

The viral crispy smashed potatoes recipe. Crispy edges, fluffy centers, and garlic butter flavor.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 280

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Potatoes

• 1.5 lbs Baby Potatoes (Yukon Gold or Red) Look for creamy texture and thin skins.

Seasoning & Oil

• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter, melted Adds rich flavor.
• 3 cloves Garlic, minced Fresh is best.
• 1 tsp Salt Plus more for boiling.
• ½ tsp Black Pepper
• 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped Used for garnish.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Place your cleaned potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook until they are fork-tender (usually 15-20 minutes). Drain and let steam dry for 5 minutes.

Smashing and Seasoning

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place your drained, steam-dried potatoes on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use the bottom of a heavy glass or a potato masher to gently press down on each potato until it flattens.
2. In a small bowl, mix your melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture generously over each smashed potato.

Roasting

1. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and crispy. If desired, flip them halfway through for extra crunch.

Serving

1. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and a little extra sea salt. Serve hot!

Notes

For extra crispy potatoes, ensure to steam dry after boiling. These are versatile; add your favorite toppings or seasonings.