Crispy Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes in Just 30 Minutes

Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes are a must-have side dish. This recipe is crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and brimming with a garlicky, buttery flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

These smashed potatoes are ideal for Christmas dinner or any festive event and go well with chicken, turkey, steak, or fish. You can also pair them with your favorite dips, such as guacamole or sour cream, for an elevated snack. This recipe, which requires only 30 minutes of active cooking time, is simple and delicious. So, let's go into the complete guide on making these delectable potatoes!

Why You'll Love Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes

Crispy Perfection: The roasting process ensures golden-brown, crispy edges that contrast perfectly with the fluffy potato centers.
Packed with Flavor: Butter, garlic, and fresh herbs like oregano and parsley infuse the potatoes with rich, savory notes.
Versatile Side Dish: These potatoes complement nearly any main course and are equally satisfying on their own.
Customizable: Love cheese? Add some parmesan. Like spice? Sprinkle on chili flakes. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients

2 pounds potatoes (small to medium-sized for best results)
5 tablespoons salted butter
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
5 cloves garlic, crushed
2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and black pepper to taste

How to Make Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes?

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven ensures the potatoes become wonderfully crispy.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

Place the potatoes in a large pot of salted water and bring them to a boil. Cook for 30–35 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender. Drain the potatoes thoroughly to remove excess water, which can interfere with crisping.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the potatoes on the sheet, leaving enough space between them.

Step 4: Smash the Potatoes

Using a potato masher or the bottom of a sturdy glass, gently press down on each potato until it flattens. Be careful not to mash them completely—you want them to hold their shape while exposing their fluffy interiors.

Step 5: Add the Garlic Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, crushed garlic, oregano, and parsley. Drizzle this flavorful mixture over the smashed potatoes, ensuring each one is coated evenly. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Roast to Crispy Perfection

Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the potatoes for 10–15 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy on the edges. For an extra-crispy finish, switch to broil for the last 2–3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the potatoes from the oven and serve immediately. Garnish with additional parsley for a fresh touch, and pair with your favorite dips or sauces.

Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes Customizations and Pro Tips

1. Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded parmesan or your favorite cheese over the potatoes before roasting for a melty, cheesy upgrade.

2. Spice It Up: Love a kick of heat? Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper before baking.

3. Try Dips: Serve these smashed potatoes with sour cream, guacamole, or garlic aioli for a flavor-packed experience.

4. Use Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs work in a pinch, fresh oregano and parsley elevate the dish with vibrant, aromatic flavors.

5. Get Creative with Potatoes: Yukon Gold or baby potatoes work best, but red potatoes or even sweet potatoes can add a fun twist.

Why These Potatoes Are Perfect for Christmas

The Christmas season is all about bringing people together, and Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes are the ideal recipe to do it. These potatoes, with their simple ingredients and easy preparation, allow you to enjoy the festivities rather than spend hours in the kitchen. They're a crowd-pleaser that will impress everyone from finicky diners to sophisticated foodies. Also, their festive flavors—a rich blend of garlic, butter, and fresh herbs—make them an ideal addition to any holiday feast.

Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes Pairing Suggestions

Roast Chicken or Turkey: These potatoes soak up the juices beautifully, adding even more flavor to your meal.
Grilled Fish: The crispiness of the potatoes balances the delicate texture of fish.
Beef Tenderloin: The savory, buttery flavors of the potatoes match the richness of red meat perfectly.
Holiday Ham: A sweet-and-salty ham pairs wonderfully with these garlicky, herb-infused potatoes.

A Smashed Potato with creamcheese and bacon on top.

Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes Leftover Tips

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes to restore crispiness.

Zulay's Final Thoughts

For all those holiday dinners that have been lacking a side dish, try Crispy Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes. They are simple to make and will quickly become a favorite in your household thanks to their abundance of flavor. No matter the occasion—Christmas, Thanksgiving, or even a midweek dinner—these potatoes will make it more special.

So, get your favorite potatoes, preheat the oven, and in thirty minutes you can have a meal fit for a Christmas feast. Enjoy your time in the kitchen!

Share the Love

Have you tried this Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes recipe? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to share your holiday table photos on social media—tag @ZulayKitchen and use #kitchenhappiness for a chance to be featured.

A platter of Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes for Christmas feast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make These Potatoes Ahead of Time?

Yes! Boil the potatoes and prepare the garlic butter mixture in advance. When ready to serve, smash and roast the potatoes fresh to maintain their crispiness.