These crispy Smashed Potatoes are easy and loved by all. They taste like little campfire potatoes with their super crispy, salty skins and roasted golden edges.

Crispy Smashed potatoes with cheese

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See that crisp skin? Imagine it’s salty wonderfulness teasing your taste buds! This Smashed Potato recipe is a must-try. Like our Baked Potato Wedges, these have soft centers and an irresistible cheesy crust.

Crispy Smashed Potatoes Video Recipe:

I hope these smashed potatoes become a smashing hit in your home! Watch the video tutorial and you’ll be a pro in no time. P.S. Don’t miss the fun outtakes at the end.

What are Smashed Potatoes?

Smashed Potatoes are small red or yellow potatoes (baby potatoes) that are simmered until tender then smashed flat, drizzled with olive oil and baked until crispy at the edges. We add parmesan because we can’t resist a cheesy crust.

The kids love these as a snack, dipping their crispy potatoes in ketchup or Avocado Ranch just like a giant French fry; only much healthier because they are baked, not fried!

These cheesy smashed potatoes are crisp on the outside with a creamy center and irresistible cheesy crust.

Simple Ingredients:

We love that this uses basic pantry and refrigerator staples. Often the simplest recipes are the best and this one is budget-friendly also for the win.

  • Baby potatoes – we use a combination of red and yellow potatoes. They should be 1 1/2″ to 2″ in diameter and equal in size.
  • Olive oil – a light drizzle is all you need to help potatoes crisp up while roasting
  • Garlic salt – the dried garlic and parsley add great flavor without scorching in the oven
  • Black Pepper – Freshly cracked is best
  • Parmesan Cheese – shredded parmesan creates a perfect cheesy crust
  • Parsley – add finely chopped herbs at the end for color and flavor

These cheesy smashed potatoes are crisp on the outside with a creamy center and irresistible cheesy crust.

How to Make Roasted Smashed Potatoes:

This process is so simple but produces the most irresistible potatoes side dish. They are creamy on the inside and so crispy on the outside. Get the full print-friendly recipe below.

  1. Boil potatoes in a pot of water with 2 tsp salt. Simmer 20-30 minutes (depending on the thickness of potatoes), until tender.
  2. Drain potatoes and transfer to a silpat lined baking sheet and cool for 10-15 minutes. Using a potato masher or the bottom of a drinking glass, gently press down on each potato, pressing to about 1/2″ thickness and being careful not to break potatoes apart.
  3. Season and Bake: Drizzle half of the olive oil over one side of potatoes and sprinkle with half of the seasonings. Bake, uncovered, for 12 to 15 min or until bottoms are lightly golden.
  4. Turn potatoes with a spatula, drizzle with remaining oil and sprinkle with remaining seasonings. Bake 12 to 15 min or until potatoes are golden brown and crisp.
  5. Sprinkle parmesan on potatoes and broil 2 to 3 min to melt the cheese.

Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.

step by step how to make smashed potatoes recipe

Tips for Perfect Smashed Potatoes:

Follow these tips for making the crispiest and best tasting roasted baby potatoes!

  • The Right Potatoes – small potatoes have the best ratio of skin to potato and are easier to flatten and crisp in the oven.
  • Flatter is Better – the more you can flatten (we aim for 1/2″ thick), the crispier they will be.
  • Season Generously – There’s nothing like a crisp and salty potato skin. Don’t skimp on the garlic salt and cheese.
  • Broil at the End – Once the cheese is on, we broil for a couple of minutes to melt the cheese and also to get those potatoes extra crispy.

How to Serve Smashed Potatoes?

If you are serving them as a side dish, you should know they are in great danger of becoming an appetizer as folks breeze through your kitchen and “sample”. Smashed potatoes pair well with:

These cheesy smashed potatoes served on a baking sheet with cheese and parsley

Can I Make These Potatoes Ahead?

You can boil the potatoes a day ahead, cool to room temp then cover and refrigerate overnight. Smash, season and bake the following day. Since you are starting with cold potatoes, add 2 minutes to the initial baking time to ensure a crisp exterior.

P.S. You can easily double this recipe to serve a crowd (highly recommended!).

Our Best Potato Recipes:

Roasted smashed potatoes are one of my favorite ways to enjoy potatoes. My children aren’t usually keen on potatoes, but they sure love these! These are the potato recipes that always get rave reviews:

Smashed Potatoes Recipe (VIDEO)

4.95 from 89 votes
Crispy smashed potatoes on baking sheet with cheesy crust
These cheesy smashed potatoes are crisp on the outside with a creamy center and irresistible cheesy crust.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Ingredients 

Servings: 6 as an appetizer
  • 2 lbs small potatoes (12-16 count) , 1 1/2 to 2" diameter*
  • 2 tsp salt for water
  • 1 Tbsp Olive oil to drizzle
  • 1 1/2 tsp Garlic salt, (or to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper, freshly cracked
  • 3/4 cup parmesan cheese
  • 2 Tbsp parsley, finely chopped, to garnish

Instructions

  • Bring a pot of water to boil and add 2 tsp salt (Note: 8 cups water for 5Qt pot). Once water has boiled, carefully add potatoes then reduce heat to a low boil and cook until potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork then drain (total boiling time is 25-30 minutes depending on potato size).
  • Meanwhile preheat the oven to 450˚F. Transfer drained potatoes to a lined rimmed baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
  • Use a potato masher or the flat bottom of a drinking glass to smash the potatoes to about 1/2" thickness. Press gently so you don’t break the potatoes apart.
  • Drizzle the tops with olive oil then sprinkle generously with garlic salt and black pepper to taste. Bake at 450˚F for 15 min. Flip potatoes over with a spatula, drizzle the second side with oil and season with more garlic salt and pepper. Bake another 12-15 min or until potatoes are crisp with golden brown edges.
  • Sprinkle generously with parmesan cheese then return to the oven another 2-3 minutes or just until cheese is melted. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve warm.

Notes

*Get baby red or baby yellow potatoes that are even in size and thickness for even cooking. 

Nutrition Per Serving

176kcal Calories24g Carbs7g Protein5g Fat2g Saturated Fat8mg Cholesterol809mg Sodium706mg Potassium2g Fiber2g Sugar215IU Vitamin A14.7mg Vitamin C165mg Calcium1.3mg Iron
Nutrition Facts
Smashed Potatoes Recipe (VIDEO)
Amount per Serving
Calories
176
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
5
g
8
%
Saturated Fat
 
2
g
13
%
Cholesterol
 
8
mg
3
%
Sodium
 
809
mg
35
%
Potassium
 
706
mg
20
%
Carbohydrates
 
24
g
8
%
Fiber
 
2
g
8
%
Sugar
 
2
g
2
%
Protein
 
7
g
14
%
Vitamin A
 
215
IU
4
%
Vitamin C
 
14.7
mg
18
%
Calcium
 
165
mg
17
%
Iron
 
1.3
mg
7
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: roasted smashed potatoes, smashed potatoes
Skill Level: Easy
Cost to Make: $
Calories: 176
Natasha's Kitchen Cookbook

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These cheesy smashed potatoes are crisp on the outside with a creamy center and irresistible cheesy crust. | natashaskitchen.com
4.95 from 89 votes (28 ratings without comment)

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Recipe Rating




Comments

  • Jamie Brison
    December 29, 2020

    These were such a hit at Thanksgiving that I had to make them again at Christmas. I think I’ll add it to my regular cooking rotation, too! So Yummy!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      December 29, 2020

      Yay, so great to hear that. I’m glad that you loved this recipe, Jamie!

      Reply

  • Irene Panopoulos
    December 16, 2020

    Great side dish! My family loved it and I will be making it again for sure!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      December 16, 2020

      I’m so happy to hear that, Irene! Thank you for that wonderful review!

      Reply

  • Dianne Foley
    December 10, 2020

    I made these for the first time last night. While mine did not look as pretty as yours (because they smashed all over the place lol), they were so delicious! I will definitely have again!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      December 10, 2020

      I’m happy you enjoyed this recipe, Dianne! They don’t have to be super pretty! Its the flavor that matters 😉

      Reply

  • Paula
    November 27, 2020

    These are actually quite a bit of work and mine did not smash nicely, many broke apart and I felt like it was a hot mess. However everyone loved them, asking for more so that’s the most important part. Perhaps I needed to boil a bit longer for easier mashing. So will try again.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      November 27, 2020

      Thank you so much for sharing that with us Paula, I think it may need slightly more time as you said.

      Reply

    • laura
      December 27, 2020

      used instant pot to “boil” prior to baking and the results were perfect!

      Reply

  • Margaret Macht
    October 4, 2020

    Reheated left over smashed potatoes next day and topped with a poached egg. Great breakfast dish!

    Would like more recipes using Cuisinart Airfryer Toaster Oven

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      October 5, 2020

      Great idea! Thank you for sharing that!

      Reply

  • Connie
    October 3, 2020

    I have made these often and love this recipe. Like to serve them with grilled hamburgers or chicken. My husband grills the hamburgers and I smash the potatoes…we make a good team! Thanks for an easy and great tasting recipe.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      October 3, 2020

      Hi Connie, I’m so happy you enjoyed this recipe! Thank you for this wonderful review!

      Reply

  • Maryam
    September 9, 2020

    Thanks for sharing

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      September 9, 2020

      You’re welcome!

      Reply

  • Maryam
    September 9, 2020

    Hi Natasha! I tried these and they were awesome…everyone in my family loved it

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      September 9, 2020

      That’s just awesome! I love it when the entire family enjoys the meal!

      Reply

  • Katie B
    August 19, 2020

    These were fantastic!!! So crispy, with soft and fluffy potato chunks. Full of flavor too, with the garlic salt! The whole family loved these and will definitely be put in the regular rotation.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      August 20, 2020

      Sounds like you found a new favorite Katie! That’s so great! Thank you for sharing that awesome review with me!

      Reply

  • Deborah Roland
    August 13, 2020

    Hi Natasha, I love your recipes. I have tried these potatoes and they are great. Everything I have tried that you cook is great. I did half of my potatoes exactly like you did them. The other half I put onion on them, (my husband and I love onions) they were so good. We ate everyone of yours and mine. I have tried making, chicken, rice, broccoli and cheese cassarole several times, but for some reason I can’t seem to get it right. I would love to see how you make yours. Thanks again, Deborah Roland

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      August 13, 2020

      So fantastic to hear that, Deborah. I’m so glad that you’re loving the recipes that you’ve tried so far. Keep it up and thanks!

      Reply

  • Simone
    June 18, 2020

    Hi Natasha, the smashed potatoes look really good. Would you create a recipe for caramel/candy apples? I love them and they are one of my fall favorites, including your pumpkin bread.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      June 18, 2020

      Thank you Simone! Thank you for that suggestion! I will add that to my list!

      Reply

    • Adoriana
      October 2, 2020

      Hello from Romania! I love your recipes.

      Reply

      • Natashas Kitchen
        October 2, 2020

        I’m so inspired and happy to hear that!

        Reply

  • TVLW
    June 12, 2020

    Hi Tash,
    I made the avocado mango chicken salad. I was absolutely wonderful. I’m going to make for my parents next week. When I made mine i did not use any salt and it was still wonderful and full of flavor.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      June 12, 2020

      Great to hear that you love it! I hope you enjoy every recipe that you will try.

      Reply

  • Lil
    May 6, 2020

    Really good. Wow. But Adding a bit off bacon on top makes it even better. Juicer

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      May 6, 2020

      Yum! Great idea! Thank you for that wonderful review.

      Reply

  • Barb Alchin
    April 26, 2020

    Hi Natasha
    I have recently come across your site and am loving it.
    I have already tried some of your recipes and a big tick from my husband.
    Since the air fryers are so popular at the moment maybe you could do some recipes suitable for air frying.
    Thanks
    Barb

    Reply

  • Pat
    March 17, 2020

    They went over at the Fire House, could have used another 5 lbs. Thanks.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      March 17, 2020

      You’re welcome! I’m glad you enjoyed that!

      Reply

  • CharlieH
    March 1, 2020

    Tried these potatoes tonight and loved them with grilled steaks and creamed peas and carrots, can’t wait to serve them to company.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      March 2, 2020

      I can’t for you to have them taste this too. I hope they all love it!

      Reply

  • Frank Giuliano
    March 1, 2020

    I see that you start boiling the water first and then put the potatoes in it. I was taught to place the potatoes in cold water first and then boil. Is there any difference in the two ways ?

    Reply

    • Natasha
      March 2, 2020

      Hi Frank, that is the method we used here but I think it will work fine both ways.

      Reply

      • Patty
        April 15, 2020

        Can I use regular foil to line the pan

        Reply

        • Natasha
          April 16, 2020

          Hi Patty, foil should work – it just tends to stick more so you might spray it with cooking spray to help with that.

          Reply

  • Gwen Wilkerson
    January 29, 2020

    These look very good I will be trying

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      January 30, 2020

      Go for it, Gwen. Hope you love it!

      Reply

  • Jacques
    January 20, 2020

    Facile et très bon !!!!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      January 20, 2020

      I’m so glad you liked that!

      Reply

  • Reina
    November 30, 2019

    Can I use bigger potatoes and cut into quarters for the smashed potato recipe?

    Reply

    • Natasha
      November 30, 2019

      Hi Reina, it’s do-able but not ideal since they won’t smash very pretty with part of the skin missing.

      Reply

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