Do you love crispy and buttery potatoes? The Ina Garten Smashed Potatoes Recipe is a total game-changer.

Learning how to make Ina Garten Smashed Potatoes Recipe is very simple. This side dish is perfect for any family dinner.

These potatoes are crunchy on the outside. They stay soft and fluffy on the inside.

You only need a few simple ingredients for Ina Garten Smashed Potatoes Recipe.

Your kitchen will smell amazing while they bake. Let’s get started on this delicious dish today!

What Makes This Recipe Special

The flavor of this dish is rich and buttery. Ina Garten always uses high-quality ingredients.

The texture is the best part of the recipe. You get a satisfying crunch in every single bite. The middle of the potato stays very creamy.

It feels like a mix of fries and mashed potatoes. This recipe is also incredibly easy to follow. You do not need expert chef skills to succeed.

It takes about forty-five minutes from start to finish. Most of that time is just waiting for the oven.

You can check out other easy potato side dishes for more inspiration. This dish looks fancy but requires very little effort.

Equipment List

Large Pot: You need this to boil the potatoes first. It should hold enough water to cover them. Boiling makes the potatoes soft enough to smash easily.
Colander: This tool helps you drain the hot water. It is essential for getting the potatoes dry. Dry potatoes get much crispier in the oven later.

Baking Sheet: You will roast the potatoes on this flat pan. A large rimmed sheet works best for this task. It keeps the oil from dripping into your oven.
Small Bowl: Use this to mix your oil and seasonings. It ensures every potato gets a balanced flavor coating. A whisk or spoon helps combine everything well.
Potato Masher or Heavy Glass: You need something flat to press the potatoes. A sturdy glass bottom works just as well. This creates the “smashed” look and texture.

Parchment Paper: This prevents the potatoes from sticking to the pan. It also makes cleanup much faster and easier. You can skip it if your pan is non-stick.

Ingredients You Need for Ina Garten Smashed Potatoes Recipe

Baby Potatoes: These small potatoes have very thin skins. They cook quickly and smash perfectly without falling apart. Red or yellow varieties work best for this.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This helps the potatoes crisp up beautifully. It adds a nice fruity flavor to the dish. Use a good quality oil for the best results.

Unsalted Butter: Butter adds a rich and creamy taste. It browns in the oven for extra flavor. Melting it first makes it easier to pour.
Kosher Salt: Large salt crystals add a great crunch. It brings out the natural earthiness of the potatoes. Seasoning well is the secret to great flavor.
Black Pepper: Freshly cracked pepper adds a little bit of spice. It balances the richness of the butter and oil. You can add as much or as little as you like.

Fresh Garlic: Minced garlic adds a savory and pungent aroma. It roasts along with the potatoes for a sweet finish. Garlic makes almost every savory dish taste better.
Fresh Parsley: This herb adds a bright pop of color. It provides a fresh finish to the heavy dish. Chop it finely before sprinkling it on top.

How to Assemble

Wash your small potatoes under cool running water. Remove any dirt or small bumps from the skin. Place them into your large cooking pot now.

Fill the pot with enough cold water to cover. Add a big pinch of salt to the water. This seasons the potatoes from the inside out.
Place the pot on the stove over high heat. Bring the water to a full rolling boil. Let the potatoes cook for fifteen to twenty minutes.
Test the potatoes with a sharp fork or knife. They should be tender but not falling apart yet. Drain them well using a large kitchen colander.

Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit now. Line your baking sheet with a piece of parchment. Let the potatoes dry for a few minutes.
Place the potatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Use your masher to press down on each one. They should be about half an inch thick.
Drizzle the melted butter and olive oil over them. Sprinkle the salt, pepper, and garlic on top. Make sure every potato is well coated with oil.

Slide the baking sheet into the hot oven now. Roast them for twenty to twenty-five minutes total. They should look golden brown and very crispy.

Recipe Success Tips

Always start with cold water for even potato cooking.
Dry the potatoes thoroughly before you start smashing them.
Do not overlap the potatoes on the baking sheet pan.
Use high heat to get that perfect golden crust.
Add the fresh herbs only after the potatoes finish roasting.

Press them firmly but do not turn them into mash.

How To Store Leftover

You can store leftovers in an airtight plastic container. They will stay good in the fridge for three days. To reheat, use an oven or an air fryer.
Microwaving them will make the potato skins feel soggy. The oven helps bring back that original crispy texture. Heat them at 350 degrees for about ten minutes. They still taste delicious the next day for lunch!

Sides & Pairings Suggestions

These potatoes go well with almost any main meat. Try serving them with a juicy roasted chicken breast. They also pair perfectly with a seared steak dinner.
For a lighter meal, serve them with grilled salmon. A fresh green salad adds a nice crunch nearby. You can even serve them as a party snack. Dip them in sour cream or a garlic aioli.

Nutritions

Nutrient	Value
Calories	210 kcal
Carbohydrates	26 g
Fat	11 g
Fiber	3 g
Protein	3 g

FAQs about Ina Garten Smashed Potatoes Recipe

Q: Can I use large potatoes for this recipe?

A: Small potatoes work best for this specific cooking style. Large potatoes often fall apart when you smash them. If you use big ones, cut them into chunks.

Q: Should I peel the potatoes before boiling them?

A: No, you should definitely leave the potato skins on. The skin provides the crunch and holds it together. It also contains many of the potato’s healthy vitamins.

Q: Why are my smashed potatoes not getting crispy enough?

A: You might be using too much oil or butter. Or, your oven temperature might be set too low. Ensure the oven is fully preheated to 450 degrees.

Q: Can I add cheese to this potato recipe?

A: Yes, you can add parmesan cheese during the last five minutes. It will melt and create a savory cheesy crust. This adds a nice salty kick to the dish.

Final Thoughts

The Ina Garten Smashed Potatoes Recipe is a classic for a reason. It is simple, reliable, and tastes like pure comfort.

Your friends and family will surely ask for seconds. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different dried herbs.

You can try rosemary or thyme for a woody flavor. Cooking should be a fun and creative process for you.

For more tips on hosting, see these dinner party ideas. Enjoy your crispy, golden, and buttery potato creation!

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