Garlic smashed potatoes

Garlic smashed potatoes are a delicious side dish made by boiling and smashing potatoes, then roasting them with garlic and fresh thyme in olive oil for added flavor. This method results in crispy edges and a soft, tender interior, perfect for pairing with various main courses.

12 Feb 2026
Cook time 40 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2 potatoes
2 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves
1 tbsp fresh thyme
4 tsp sea salt

Garlic smashed potatoes are a delightful and incredibly flavorful side dish that can complement a variety of main courses. This recipe combines the rich taste of olive oil, aromatic fresh thyme, and the sharpness of garlic to elevate simple potatoes into a dish that everyone will love. Perfect for family dinners, BBQs, or even as a comforting snack, these garlic smashed potatoes are sure to become a favorite in your household.

Instructions:

1. Preheat Your Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Scrub the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt, then rinse them under cold water.
- Leave the skins on for extra texture and nutrients.
- Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Add 1 tsp of sea salt to the water.
- Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes cook until they are tender when pierced with a fork, roughly 15-20 minutes.

3. Drain and Smash the Potatoes:
- Once the potatoes are tender, drain them in a colander and let them sit for a few minutes to steam dry.
- Place the potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Use a potato masher or the bottom of a sturdy glass to gently press down on each potato to flatten it slightly.

4. Prepare the Garlic Thyme Oil:
- While the potatoes are baking, mince the garlic cloves finely.
- In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, fresh thyme leaves, and 2 tbsp of olive oil.

5. Season and Bake:
- Brush the smashed potatoes generously with the garlic thyme oil mixture. Make sure to coat each potato evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining sea salt over the potatoes.

6. Roast in the Oven:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
- Roast the potatoes for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy around the edges.

7. Serve:
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven.
- Let the potatoes cool for a minute before transferring them to a serving platter.
- Garnish with any remaining fresh thyme leaves for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.

8. Enjoy:
- Serve the garlic smashed potatoes as a delightful side dish to complement your favorite main course.

Garlic smashed potatoes are a versatile and delicious dish that can be easily made with just a few simple ingredients. By following these tips and steps, you'll be able to create a side dish that's crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, infused with the wonderful flavors of garlic and thyme. Enjoy this delightful recipe with your favorite dishes and savor the compliments from your family and friends.

Garlic smashed potatoes FAQ:

What is the baking time for garlic smashed potatoes?

Bake the smashed potatoes in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy around the edges.

How do I know when the potatoes are done boiling?

The potatoes are done boiling when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork, which typically takes about 15-20 minutes.

Can I store leftovers, and how should I do it?

Yes, you can store leftover garlic smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

What can I substitute for olive oil in this recipe?

You can substitute olive oil with vegetable oil, melted butter, or avocado oil, but keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor.

What types of potatoes work best for smashing?

Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal for smashing due to their creamy texture. Russets can also be used but will yield a drier result.

Cooking Tips:

- Choose potatoes of similar size to ensure even cooking.

- Boil the potatoes until they are fork-tender but not falling apart to make the smashing process easier.

- For extra crispiness, you can bake the potatoes on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet.

- Feel free to experiment with additional herbs or spices such as rosemary, paprika, or Parmesan cheese to add more flavor.

- Use a potato masher or the bottom of a sturdy glass to smash the potatoes gently, maintaining some texture.

Nutrition Facts

22 Servings
Calories 27kcal
Protein 0.72g
Carbohydrates 6g
Fiber 0.73g
Sugar 0.28g
Fat 1.26g

Garlic smashed potatoes