Sometimes the simplest recipes are the most addictive. That certainly applies to smashed potatoes: first boil, then smash and then fry until golden brown and crispy. The result? A perfect combination of a soft interior and a crispy exterior.
I like to make these as a quick lunch, side dish or party snack - and the best part is: you can vary them endlessly. With the right herbs and a good sauce you can turn them into something special in a few minutes.
Why smashed potatoes are so popular
- Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside
- Simple recipe with few ingredients
- Perfect for oven and airfryer
- Ideal to combine with sauces and herbs
- Suitable as a snack, side dish or lunch
Ingredients (for 2–3 people)
- 500 g (sweet) potatoes (preferably small or medium)
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: garlic powder, paprika powder, rosemary
Preparation
- Boil the potatoes
Bring a pan of water with salt to a boil. Cook the potatoes for 15–20 minutes until they are tender. - Let them steam dry
Drain and let them steam dry briefly. This is important for extra crispiness. - Smash the potatoes
Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment and press them flat with a glass or fork. - Season
Drizzle with olive oil and add salt, pepper and optional herbs. - Bake until crispy
- Oven: 200°C → 25–30 minutes
- Airfryer: 180°C → 15–20 minutes
Bake until golden brown and crispy.
3 flavor variations (with extra experience)
1. Smoky BBQ smashed potatoes
Add smoked paprika, garlic and a pinch of cumin.
Serve with a drizzle of BBQ sauce for a smoky twist.
2. Garlic mayo smashed potatoes
Season with garlic and parsley.
Serve with a creamy (light) garlic sauce or mayo.
3. Sweet & spicy smashed sweet potato
Use sweet potato and add chili flakes and a pinch of cinnamon .
Combine with a sweet-spicy chilli sauce for balance.
Tips for perfectly crispy smashed potatoes
- The flatter you make them, the crispier they become
- Let them steam dry well after boiling
- Use enough oil (but not too much)
- Optionally bake them for the last 5 minutes at a higher temperature
- Do not stack them → space = crisp
Meal prep: making smashed potatoes in advance
Want to save time on busy days? Then smashed potatoes are perfect to prepare ahead. By boiling the potatoes in advance, you only need to smash and bake them later. Ideal for weekdays or if you want to make multiple portions at once.
How to do it
1. Boil the potatoes in advance
Cook the potatoes as in the recipe (15–20 minutes until tender).
2. Let cool completely
Drain and let them steam dry and cool well. This later ensures a crunchier result.
3. Store in the fridge
Store the cooked potatoes in a sealed container in the fridge.
They will stay good for 2–3 days.
Bake when it suits you
Ready to eat? This is how you make them crispy quickly:
- Take the potatoes out of the fridge
- Pat them dry if necessary
- Smash them on a baking sheet or in the airfryer
- Add oil and herbs
- Bake until golden and crispy
Why this works so well
By cooling, the structure of the potato changes (so-called resistant starch forms). This makes the potatoes firmer and they bake extra crispy in the oven or airfryer.
Extra meal prep tips
- Cook a larger batch and use them over several days
- Combine with different herbs and sauces for variety
- Perfect as a quick lunch, side dish or snack
- Also tasty reheated cold in the airfryer
Are smashed potatoes healthy?
Smashed potatoes can be a relatively healthy choice, especially if you make them in the oven or airfryer instead of frying.
Potatoes naturally contain fiber, vitamin C and potassium. By using little oil and choosing lighter sauces, you keep the dish well balanced. Sweet potatoes also add extra fiber and antioxidants.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
- Can I make smashed potatoes in the airfryer?
Yes, this works perfectly. They get crispy quickly and you need less oil. - Do you need to peel the potatoes?
No, you don't have to. The skin actually provides extra texture and flavor. - Which potatoes work best?
Small waxy potatoes work best. For a sweeter variant you can use sweet potato. - How do I get them extra crispy?
Let them steam dry well, smash them thin and bake them hot enough. - Can you make them in advance?
Yes, you can parboil them and bake later. Ideal for meal prep.
