Frequently Asked Questions
What are Ultimate Crispy Smashed Potatoes?
They are tender red potatoes that are flattened and roasted until they have golden, crispy edges and a satisfying texture.
What type of potatoes should I use?
This recipe specifically calls for red potatoes.
What is the ideal size for the potatoes?
The potatoes should be approximately 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter.
How many potatoes are needed for 4 servings?
You will need between 12 and 15 red potatoes.
How much salt is required for this recipe?
A total of 2.75 teaspoons of kosher salt is used, divided between the boiling water and the roasting stage.
What kind of oil is best for roasting these potatoes?
High-quality extra virgin olive oil is recommended for the best flavor and crunch.
How much olive oil is used?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil.
How do I start the cooking process?
Place the potatoes in a single layer in a large saucepan and cover them with at least 1 inch of cold water.
How long should the potatoes boil?
Boil them for 30 to 35 minutes until they are tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork.
Should I overcook the potatoes during the boiling phase?
No, you should avoid overcooking them to ensure they hold their shape for smashing.
How should I dry the potatoes after boiling?
Carefully remove them from the water and allow them to drain for a few minutes on clean dishtowels.
What is the best way to smash the potatoes?
Cover each potato with a folded dishtowel and gently press down with the palm of your hand.
How thin should the potatoes be smashed?
Aim for a thickness of about 1/2 inch.
What if the potatoes break while I am smashing them?
Don't worry if they break slightly; they can still be roasted and will become very crispy.
How should I prepare the baking sheet?
Line a large rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and then place a sheet of parchment paper on top.
Can I make these potatoes in advance?
Yes, you can smash the potatoes and let them cool completely, then refrigerate them until you are ready to roast.
How do I store the potatoes if I make them ahead?
Lightly cover the smashed potatoes with plastic wrap and keep them in the refrigerator.
What temperature should the oven be for roasting?
Preheat your oven to 450ยฐF for a conventional oven or 400ยฐF for a convection oven.
What should I do if the potatoes were refrigerated?
Take them out of the refrigerator to warm slightly while the oven is preheating.
When do I add the final seasoning?
Sprinkle the remaining 3/4 teaspoon of salt over the potatoes right before roasting.
How do I ensure the potatoes get crispy on both sides?
Toss the potatoes in olive oil to coat both sides and flip them gently halfway through the roasting time.
How long does it take to roast the potatoes?
Roast for about 30 minutes in a convection oven or 30 to 40 minutes in a conventional oven.
How do I know when the potatoes are done?
They are finished when they are golden brown and crispy around the edges.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, these crispy smashed potatoes are vegetarian.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 300 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 17.5 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
There are 41.25 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein does this side dish provide?
Each serving contains 3 grams of protein.
What category of food does this recipe fall into?
This is a potato-based side dish.
What inspired this recipe?
This creation was inspired by Fine Cooking magazine.