Get ready for a delicious treat with these Crispy Cheesy Smashed Potatoes! They’re crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and loaded with melted cheese—you won’t be able to resist!
Every time I make these, I find myself sneaking a few bites before they hit the table. 🥔🧀 The cheesy goodness makes them a perfect side dish, or just snack away on them any time you like!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: I like using Yukon Gold or red potatoes for their buttery texture. If you can’t find them, fingerling potatoes work well too. Just make sure to choose potatoes similar in size for even cooking.
Olive Oil: A staple for roasting, but feel free to swap it with avocado oil for a higher smoke point. Both add a nice flavor to the potatoes.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is my top pick for this dish because it melts beautifully. If you’d like a bolder flavor, try sharp cheddar or even pepper jack for some spice!
Bacon: For added crunch and flavor, cooked bacon is perfect. If vegetarian, you could use crispy fried shallots or a plant-based bacon substitute instead.
Chives: They add a fresh touch! If you don’t have chives, green onions can provide a similar mild oniony flavor.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Crispy Texture?
The secret to achieving those crispy edges is all about the oil and heat. First, make sure you boil the potatoes just until tender; overcooking can lead to mushy potatoes. When smashing, don’t flatten them too much, as you’ll lose that ideal texture.
- Preheat your oven fully before baking to achieve crispiness.
- Drizzle the olive oil generously to coat each smashed potato; this helps them crisp up beautifully in the oven.
How to Make Crispy Cheesy Smashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- 2 tablespoons blue cheese crumbles (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 40-50 minutes in total. This includes 15-20 minutes to boil the potatoes until they’re tender, followed by about 30 minutes of baking time. It’s a great dish to make for a quick side or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure that your potatoes get wonderfully crispy. While it’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease.
2. Boil the Potatoes:
Grab a large pot and place the baby potatoes inside. Cover them with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender. Once they are done, drain them well using a colander.
3. Smash the Potatoes:
Now, move the drained potatoes onto your prepared baking sheet. Using a potato masher or the bottom of a glass, gently smash each potato just enough to flatten it but keep it intact. You want a little height to make sure they get crispy!
4. Add Seasonings:
Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the smashed potatoes. Then, sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper over the top. Make sure every potato is nicely covered for maximum flavor!
5. Bake for the First Time:
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for the edges of the potatoes to start turning golden and crispy—this is where the magic happens!
6. Add Cheese and Bacon:
Once the potatoes are golden, take them out of the oven. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon evenly over the tops of each smashed potato. They’re going to get even better!
7. Bake Until Cheesy:
Return the potato tray to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes. This will melt the cheese and allow it to get bubbly and delicious.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, finish your potatoes by garnishing with chopped fresh chives and blue cheese crumbles if you’re using them. The chives add a nice pop of color and freshness!
9. Enjoy!
Serve your crispy cheesy smashed potatoes hot and enjoy each flavorful bite! They make an amazing side or even a fun snack any time of the day.
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! Yukon Gold and red potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, but feel free to use other varieties like fingerling or new potatoes. Just ensure they are similar in size for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Smashed Potatoes?
To store leftovers, allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for best results, or use the microwave if you’re short on time!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the potatoes and smash them ahead of time. Simply follow the boiling and smashing steps, then cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, just season and bake them as directed, adding a few extra minutes if they are cold from the fridge.
Is It Possible to Make These Potatoes Vegetarian?
Definitely! Skip the bacon and you can substitute with crispy fried onions for crunch or simply load them up with extra cheese and your favorite herbs for great flavor!
