Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Herb Butter: Golden, Flavorful, and Irresistible

Introduction

The Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Herb Butter are a decadent twist on a classic comfort food. Tender on the inside and perfectly crispy on the outside, these potatoes are elevated with a rich, aromatic herb butter that melts into every crevice, creating a savory, flavorful experience. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday meals, or special occasions when you want a side dish that looks impressive but is surprisingly simple to make.

This guide is written to be easy to read and follow, with clear instructions, tips, and variations, so even beginners can achieve crispy, golden smashed potatoes. The addition of herb butter gives a restaurant-quality flavor that’s hard to resist.

Whether served alongside roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or as a snack on their own, these potatoes deliver maximum flavor, texture, and visual appeal.

Why This Recipe Is Special

What sets this recipe apart is the combination of crispy roasted potatoes and melted herb butter. By boiling, smashing, and roasting the potatoes, you get a satisfying crunch, while the herb butter adds a savory, aromatic layer that transforms a simple side dish into something extraordinary.

This dish is versatile, allowing you to use a variety of fresh herbs and seasonings. It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress guests without requiring complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy outside, fluffy inside
Rich, savory herb butter flavor
Quick and easy to make
Customizable with different herbs
Perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or special occasions

Ingredients and Tools

Ingredients

1.5 lbs (700 g) small potatoes, such as baby or new potatoes
3 tbsp unsalted butter
1–2 cloves garlic, minced
1–2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh herbs, chopped (parsley, rosemary, thyme, or chives)

Tools You Will Need

Large pot for boiling
Baking sheet
Parchment paper or silicone mat (optional)
Potato masher, fork, or bottom of a glass
Small saucepan for herb butter
Spatula or tongs

Pro Ingredient Notes

Small, evenly sized potatoes cook faster and smash more evenly.
Use high-quality butter for best flavor.
Fresh herbs enhance aroma and presentation.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Place potatoes in a large pot, cover with salted water, and bring to a boil. Cook for 10–12 minutes until tender but firm enough to handle. Drain and allow to dry slightly.

Tip: Slightly drying the potatoes ensures they crisp up perfectly in the oven.

Step 2: Preheat Oven

Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil.

Step 3: Smash the Potatoes

Place the boiled potatoes on the baking sheet. Using a potato masher, fork, or bottom of a glass, gently press down until each potato is about ½ inch thick.

Visual cue: The potato should remain mostly intact while increasing surface area for crispiness.

Step 4: Prepare Herb Butter

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and chopped fresh herbs. Stir for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.

Step 5: Season and Oil the Potatoes

Drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Brush or drizzle the prepared herb butter evenly over each potato.

Step 6: Roast Until Crispy

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 12–15 minutes until the edges are golden brown and crispy.

Tip: Flip potatoes halfway through roasting for even browning.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Remove from the oven and serve hot, optionally garnished with additional fresh herbs. These potatoes pair perfectly with meats, vegetables, or as a flavorful snack.

Serving Idea: Serve with extra herb butter or a dipping sauce like aioli for indulgence.

Tips for Best Results

Use small, evenly sized potatoes for uniform cooking.
Dry potatoes thoroughly after boiling to maximize crispiness.
Brush potatoes with enough herb butter to coat well without making them soggy.
Roast at high heat for golden, crispy edges.
Experiment with different fresh herbs for varied flavors.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Potatoes not crispy: Ensure oven is fully preheated and potatoes are spaced evenly.
Potatoes falling apart: Do not overboil; they should be tender yet firm.
Uneven herb flavor: Mix herbs into melted butter and drizzle evenly.
Overly oily or soggy potatoes: Use a moderate amount of butter and oil.

Easy Variations and Customizations

Garlic Parmesan Herb Smashed Potatoes

Add grated parmesan to the herb butter and sprinkle on potatoes before roasting for a cheesy, flavorful twist.

Spicy Herb Smashed Potatoes

Include chili flakes or smoked paprika in the herb butter for a subtle kick.

Lemon Herb Smashed Potatoes

Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the herb butter for a bright, citrusy flavor.

Truffle Herb Smashed Potatoes

Drizzle with truffle oil after roasting for a luxurious, earthy twist.

Vegan Option

Substitute butter with plant-based margarine or olive oil and add nutritional yeast for a savory flavor.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Serve as a side dish for roasted meats, grilled fish, or vegetable mains. Garnish with additional fresh herbs and a light drizzle of herb butter for a visually appealing presentation.

For parties, arrange on a platter and pair with dipping sauces such as garlic aioli, herbed mayo, or sour cream. The golden edges, tender interior, and aromatic herb butter make this dish a standout on any table.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These potatoes are best served immediately for maximum crispiness. You can boil and partially smash them ahead of time, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Reheat in a hot oven for 5–10 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving to preserve the crispy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use large potatoes?

Yes, but adjust boiling and smashing time. Small potatoes provide better texture and faster cooking.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes, use plant-based butter or olive oil and add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Can I prepare them ahead of time for a party?

Yes, boil and partially smash the potatoes in advance, then roast just before serving for crispiness.

Can I freeze these potatoes?

Partially cooked potatoes can be frozen. Reheat in a hot oven for best results, although the texture may be slightly softer than fresh.

Conclusion

The Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Herb Butter are a simple, elegant, and flavor-packed side dish that combines golden, crispy edges with a soft, fluffy interior. The addition of herb butter elevates this classic potato recipe into something extraordinary.

With easy-to-follow instructions, tips for perfect crispiness, and versatile variations, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, brunch, or entertaining guests. These smashed potatoes are guaranteed to impress and satisfy, making them a must-have in your recipe collection.