Crispy Smashed Fingerling Potatoes with Garlic Herb Butter: Your Ultimate Side Dish Guide
Welcome to your new favorite potato recipe! These Crispy Smashed Fingerling Potatoes are an unbelievably easy side dish or appetizer perfect for any occasion. Imagine a delightfully crispy exterior giving way to a wonderfully creamy, fluffy center – it’s a texture sensation that makes this recipe an instant family favorite. Topped with a vibrant, fresh herb garlic butter, these potatoes are so addictively delicious, you won’t be able to stop at just one! Whether you’re planning a casual weeknight dinner or an elegant holiday feast, these smashed fingerlings are guaranteed to impress with minimal effort.
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About These Crispy Smashed Fingerling Potatoes
For all my fellow potato enthusiasts, prepare to meet your new obsession! These crispy smashed fingerling potatoes are more than just a side dish; they’re an experience. Picture this: perfectly boiled fingerling potatoes, gently smashed to create maximum surface area, then roasted to golden-brown perfection. The result is a delightful contrast of textures – wonderfully crisp, almost shatteringly so, on the outside, while retaining a luxuriously creamy and tender interior. It’s this unique combination that elevates a simple potato into a culinary masterpiece, making it irresistible to everyone at the table.
What makes fingerling potatoes so ideal for this recipe? Their elongated shape and thin skin means they cook quickly and smash beautifully, exposing just enough of their starchy insides to get perfectly crispy edges without drying out. Plus, their naturally buttery flavor shines through, complemented by our simple yet impactful garlic herb butter drizzle.
There’s no need to spend hours meticulously crafting a complex dish. These potatoes come together with surprising ease. A quick boil to soften them, a gentle smash to open them up, and a trip to a hot oven is all it takes to transform these humble fingerlings into a crowd-pleasing favorite. But we don’t stop there. The melted herb butter, infused with fresh garlic and fragrant chives, is the secret weapon. It seeps into every crack and crevice of the smashed potatoes, imparting an incredible aroma and a punch of flavor that is simply divine. It’s truly a game-changer!
These versatile crispy smashed potatoes are fantastic served as a sophisticated side dish alongside a juicy steak, tender roasted chicken, or flaky fish. They also make a superb appetizer or simple finger food for any gathering. Arrange them beautifully on a platter with a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt dip, or your favorite aioli for dipping. They’re perfect for tailgating events, birthday parties, Sunday brunch, potlucks, or even as an impressive addition to your holiday dinner spread. Once you try them, you’ll understand why they’re such a runaway hit!
Key Ingredients for Perfect Smashed Potatoes
Crafting the perfect crispy smashed fingerling potatoes doesn’t require a long list of exotic ingredients. In fact, the magic often lies in the quality and proper handling of just a few simple staples. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component is essential for achieving that irresistible flavor and texture.
Fingerling Potatoes: The Star of the Show. When selecting your potatoes, aim for fingerling varieties that are roughly the same size. This uniformity is crucial for ensuring they cook evenly, both during boiling and roasting, preventing some from being undercooked or overdone. Fingerlings are prized for their thin skins, which crisp up beautifully, and their naturally creamy, almost buttery texture. They hold their shape well after smashing, making them perfect for this technique. Look for firm, unblemished potatoes with no green spots or sprouts.
Unsalted Butter: For Richness and Control. We specify unsalted butter for a reason – it gives you complete control over the seasoning of your dish. Butter adds an incredible depth of flavor and contributes significantly to the golden-brown crispiness of the potatoes. If you only have salted butter on hand, you can absolutely use it, but be sure to reduce or omit any additional salt called for when seasoning the potatoes to avoid them becoming overly salty.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The Browning Agent. A good quality extra virgin olive oil not only adds a lovely Mediterranean flavor profile to the potatoes but also plays a vital role in achieving that coveted crisp exterior. Its relatively high smoke point makes it suitable for roasting at higher temperatures, helping the potatoes to brown beautifully without burning. A generous drizzle ensures every smashed potato gets coated, promoting even crisping.
Simple Spices: Enhancing Natural Flavor. Sometimes, less is truly more. For this recipe, we rely on the classic trio of sea salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and garlic powder. Sea salt enhances the potatoes’ natural flavor and helps draw out moisture for crisping. Black pepper adds a subtle warmth and aroma. Garlic powder, rather than fresh minced garlic which can burn at high temperatures, provides a consistent, mellow garlic flavor throughout the roasting process, complementing the fresh garlic in the herb butter.
Fresh Chives: The Finishing Touch. Fresh chives are non-negotiable for the herb garlic butter. Their delicate oniony flavor and bright green color add a fresh, vibrant pop that cuts through the richness of the butter and potatoes. They bring an aromatic lift that makes these potatoes truly special. If chives aren’t available, thinly sliced green onions (scallions) can be a good substitute, offering a similar mild onion flavor and texture.
Essential Equipment for Smashed Fingerling Potatoes
You don’t need a professional kitchen setup to create these incredible smashed potatoes. A few basic tools are all it takes to get them from raw to wonderfully crispy. Having the right equipment can make the process smoother and more enjoyable, ensuring your potatoes turn out perfectly every time.
First, to boil the potatoes until they are fork-tender, you will need a large stockpot or a Dutch oven. The key here is enough space for the potatoes to submerge fully and boil without overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking. A good colander, preferably a fine mesh strainer, is also essential for draining and allowing the potatoes to steam dry, a critical step for maximum crispiness.
To smash the potatoes, you don’t need a specialized tool. A simple yet effective method is to use the bottom of a sturdy drinking glass or a mason jar! Choose one with a relatively flat and wide base to provide even pressure and create a consistent “smash” on each potato. Avoid using a potato masher, as it can over-process the potatoes, turning them into a paste rather than creating the desired craggy, crispy edges.
For roasting, a large baking pan or a half-sheet baking pan is ideal. Size matters here; ensure you have enough surface area so the potatoes can be arranged in a single layer without overcrowding. Overcrowding leads to steaming, not roasting, and will hinder the crisping process. We always recommend lining your baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mats. This prevents sticking, makes cleanup a breeze, and helps achieve an even crisp on the bottom of the potatoes.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Crispy Smashed Fingerling Potatoes
Achieving perfectly crispy smashed fingerling potatoes is a straightforward process, broken down into a few simple steps. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure a delicious outcome every time.
Boil to Perfection
Start by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. The salt in the water not only seasons the potatoes from the inside out but also helps prevent them from becoming waterlogged. Once the water is vigorously boiling, carefully add the fingerling potatoes. Boil them for approximately 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are completely soft and fork-tender. You should be able to easily pierce a potato with a fork without much resistance. If your fingerling potatoes are particularly large, you might need to extend the cooking time slightly. Ensure they are tender all the way through; this is crucial for a creamy interior after smashing.
Gently Smash for Maximum Crisp
Once boiled, immediately drain the potatoes using a colander. Allow them to dry and steam for about 5 minutes in the colander. This step is critical! Getting rid of excess moisture on the surface of the potatoes is key to achieving that ultimate crispiness during roasting. While they dry, preheat your oven to 425˚F (220˚C). Line a large, rimmed sheet pan with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and aid in browning. Carefully transfer the dried potatoes to the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching. Now, using the bottom of a sturdy drinking glass or a mason jar, gently press down on each potato until it flattens to about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. The goal is to create craggy, uneven edges that will become super crispy, so avoid smashing them too thin or tearing the skin completely. Do NOT use a potato masher, as it will likely turn them into mush.
After smashing, drizzle the potatoes generously with extra virgin olive oil and the first portion of melted unsalted butter. Season them evenly with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Make sure each smashed potato is well-coated to maximize flavor and crisping potential.
Bake Until Golden and Crispy
Transfer the baking sheet to your preheated oven and bake the potatoes for 35 to 45 minutes at 425˚F (220˚C). The exact baking time may vary depending on your oven and the size of your potatoes. During baking, you should see the edges of the potatoes turn beautifully golden brown and become wonderfully crispy. For even browning, you can rotate the baking sheet halfway through the cooking time. While the potatoes are baking, take this opportunity to prepare the flavorful garlic herb butter that will be drizzled on top.
Finish with Garlic Herb Butter Drizzle
Once the potatoes are gloriously golden and crispy, carefully remove them from the oven. Arrange the finished potatoes on a serving platter. Immediately drizzle them generously with the prepared melted garlic herb butter. The warm potatoes will readily absorb the aromatic butter, infusing every bite with incredible flavor. Serve them piping hot as an unforgettable side dish or as an enticing appetizer. For an extra flourish and a touch of decadence, you can sprinkle them with additional fresh chopped chives or finely grated Parmesan cheese just before serving. A side of sour cream or Greek yogurt makes for an excellent dipping option!
Pro Tips and Tricks for the Best Smashed Potatoes
While this recipe is incredibly simple, a few expert tips and tricks can elevate your crispy smashed fingerling potatoes from good to absolutely phenomenal. Pay attention to these details for consistently perfect results:
- Use Equal Sized Potatoes: As mentioned, consistency in potato size is key. If you have some larger and some smaller fingerlings, consider halving the larger ones so they cook at a more uniform rate. This ensures every potato is tender inside and crispy outside.
- Don’t Skip the Drying Step: After boiling and draining, allowing the potatoes to steam dry in the colander for 5 minutes is crucial. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. This brief resting period helps evaporate surface water, creating ideal conditions for browning in the oven.
- Smash Gently: Resist the urge to aggressively flatten your potatoes. A gentle yet firm press with the bottom of a glass is all you need. You want to create those lovely craggy edges and expand the surface area without completely pulverizing the potato or tearing the skin off. A delicate touch preserves the creamy interior.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: This is arguably one of the most important rules for crispy potatoes. Arrange your smashed potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring there’s a little space between each one. If the pan is too crowded, the potatoes will steam instead of roast, resulting in a soggy rather than crispy texture. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
- High Heat is Your Friend: Roasting at 425˚F (220˚C) is essential for achieving that desirable golden-brown crust. The high temperature rapidly cooks the potatoes and promotes caramelization and crisping.
- If They Don’t Get Crispy Enough: Every oven is different. If your potatoes aren’t reaching your desired level of crispiness, try popping them under the broiler for 1 to 3 minutes at the very end of cooking. Keep a close eye on them, as the broiler works quickly and can burn them easily.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper, especially before baking. The potatoes absorb a lot of seasoning. The garlic herb butter will add another layer of flavor, but a good base seasoning is important.
- Warm Herb Butter: Ensure your garlic herb butter is melted and warm when drizzling. This allows it to penetrate the hot potatoes better, infusing maximum flavor.
- Personalize Your Herbs: While chives are fantastic, feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs in your garlic butter like parsley, thyme, rosemary, or a combination.
- Air Fryer Option: For an even crispier result or smaller batches, consider air frying. After boiling and smashing, toss them with oil and seasoning, then air fry at 400˚F (200˚C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
More potato side dish recipes to try out: Sweet Potato Souffle | Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes | Oven Fried Potatoes and Onions | Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots and Potatoes
FAQ: How long should I boil fingerling potatoes for smashed potatoes?
The ideal boiling time for fingerling potatoes destined to be smashed is typically between 20 to 25 minutes. This duration ensures they become perfectly soft and fork-tender, which is essential for achieving a creamy interior and easy smashing. The exact time can fluctuate slightly based on the size of your potatoes; larger fingerlings will naturally require a few extra minutes. To test for doneness, simply insert a fork into the largest potato in the pot. If the fork slides in easily with little to no resistance, your potatoes are ready to be drained. Be careful not to undercook them, as they will be difficult to smash, nor overcook them to the point of disintegration.
FAQ: What can I use to “smash” the potatoes?
You don’t need any fancy gadgets to smash these potatoes! The best and simplest tool is usually found right in your kitchen cabinet: the bottom of a sturdy, heavy drinking glass or a mason jar. Look for one with a wide, flat base, as this allows for even pressure distribution across the potato. The wide base also helps to create those desirable craggy edges without making the potato too thin in the center. Avoid using a potato masher, which is designed to thoroughly break down potatoes for mashed potatoes; it will likely over-process your fingerlings and prevent them from developing their signature crispy texture.
FAQ: Can I use different fresh herbs for the garlic herb butter?
Absolutely! While fresh chives offer a fantastic delicate oniony flavor and bright appearance, the beauty of this garlic herb butter is its adaptability. Feel free to unleash your creativity and use any of your favorite fresh herbs, or a delightful combination, to tailor the flavor profile to your preference or what you have on hand. Excellent choices include freshly chopped parsley for a bright, clean taste, basil for a sweet and peppery note, oregano for a robust, earthy aroma, or even a hint of fragrant rosemary and thyme, which pair wonderfully with potatoes. Just ensure your herbs are fresh, as dried herbs won’t offer the same vibrant flavor or visual appeal in the finishing drizzle.
FAQ: Can I make these smashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can certainly prepare these crispy smashed fingerling potatoes in advance, which is a fantastic time-saver, especially when you’re hosting a large dinner or juggling multiple recipes for holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas. To prepare them ahead, boil the potatoes until tender, then proceed to smash them as directed. Once smashed, allow them to cool completely to room temperature. Then, carefully arrange the cooled, smashed potatoes on a baking sheet (still lined with parchment paper) and wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24-48 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply unwrap, drizzle with the olive oil and melted butter, season, and bake as instructed. You might need an extra 5-10 minutes of baking time since they are starting cold, but they will still crisp up beautifully.
FAQ: Can I use other types of potatoes?
While fingerling potatoes are highly recommended for this recipe due to their ideal size, thin skin, and creamy texture, you can certainly experiment with other small, waxy potato varieties if fingerlings aren’t available. New potatoes, baby red potatoes, or small Yukon Golds work well. The key is to choose potatoes that are small and have relatively thin skins, as these will crisp up best. Avoid larger, starchy potatoes like Russets, as they tend to absorb too much water during boiling and won’t hold their shape or crisp up as effectively when smashed. If you do use larger small potatoes, ensure they are cut into uniform pieces before boiling to promote even cooking.
Need some inspiration for side dishes? Check out my side dish recipes page!
What to Serve with Crispy Smashed Potatoes
These oven-roasted fingerling smashed potatoes are incredibly versatile, making them a fantastic and complementary side dish for almost any main course you can imagine. Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food and pair beautifully with a wide array of proteins and vegetables, adaptable for everyday meals or special occasions. Here are some of our personal favorites that create a perfect harmony on the plate:
- For a flavorful and relatively quick weeknight meal, pair them with a roasted chicken with white wine and fresh herbs. Breaking down the chicken before roasting helps it cook faster, getting a delicious dinner on the table sooner. The savory juices from the chicken will mingle wonderfully with the crispy potatoes.
- These potatoes are an excellent companion to this savory Italian sausage and peppers recipe, making for a satisfying and easy busy weeknight meal. The robust flavors of the sausage and bell peppers are perfectly balanced by the rich, crispy potatoes.
- If you’re planning a grand holiday feast, such as Thanksgiving or Christmas, elevate your spread by serving these alongside our truly exceptional smoked beer-brined turkey! This turkey recipe is a showstopper, and the crispy potatoes add another layer of texture and flavor that will impress all your guests.
- For summertime gatherings or a delightful weekend BBQ, fire up the grill and make this grilled full chicken. The smoky char from the grilled chicken and the crispy potatoes are a match made in heaven.
- If beef is more your preference, these potatoes are a phenomenal match for a perfectly cooked grilled New York strip steak. The rich, umami flavor of the steak is beautifully complemented by the buttery, garlicky potatoes. Or, for a truly special occasion, really step up your game with a succulent BBQ beef tenderloin.
- Don’t forget the dipping sauces! While the garlic herb butter is delicious, offering a small bowl of sour cream, a tangy Greek yogurt dip, or even a spicy aioli provides an extra layer of flavor and fun.
- For a vegetarian option, these potatoes pair wonderfully with a hearty lentil loaf, mushroom steaks, or a vibrant roasted vegetable medley.
How to Store and Reheat Smashed Potatoes
While these crispy smashed fingerling potatoes are undoubtedly best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, sometimes you’ll have leftovers, or you might want to prepare them partially ahead of time. Proper storage and reheating techniques are key to maintaining their deliciousness and, most importantly, their coveted crispiness.
Store: Allow any leftover potatoes to cool completely to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation from building up, which can make them soggy. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, consider placing a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb any residual moisture.
Reheat: The goal when reheating is to restore as much of that original crispy texture as possible. While a microwave will heat them through, it won’t bring back the crispness. For optimal results, use either the oven or a skillet:
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 375˚F (190˚C). Arrange the leftover smashed potatoes in a single layer on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until they are warmed through and the edges have crisped up once again. For extra crispiness, you can briefly place them under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching them very closely to prevent burning.
- Air Fryer Method: This is an excellent option for reheating, often yielding results very close to fresh. Preheat your air fryer to 375˚F (190˚C). Place the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket (do not overcrowd). Cook for 5-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until hot and crispy.
- Skillet Method: For a quick reheat, add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter to a non-stick skillet and heat over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the potatoes in a single layer and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, flipping carefully, until golden brown and warmed through. This method is great for smaller batches and offers excellent crisping.
No matter which reheating method you choose, avoid covering the potatoes, as this will trap steam and prevent them from becoming crispy.
More Delicious & Easy Potato Recipes to Enjoy
If you’re a true potato lover, your culinary adventure doesn’t have to end with these smashed fingerlings! There’s a whole world of delicious and easy potato recipes waiting to be discovered. From crispy appetizers to comforting side dishes, potatoes offer endless possibilities. Here are a few more fantastic options to keep your potato cravings satisfied:
- Crispy mashed potato fritters are a brilliant way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into something new and exciting. Crunchy on the outside with a perfectly creamy center inside, they’re versatile enough to serve as an impressive appetizer or a delightful side dish.
- Loaded mashed potato egg rolls are an innovative and incredibly tasty way to use up any leftover mashed potatoes. Imagine all the comforting flavors of a loaded baked potato – cheese, bacon, chives – wrapped up in a crispy egg roll wrapper. They’re a guaranteed hit!
- Gooey potato cheese balls are an easy-to-make party snack that’s sure to disappear quickly. Perfect for any occasion, these cheesy bites are irresistible.
- Love the texture of smashed potatoes but looking for a new twist? Try this vibrant chili crisp smashed potato salad for a whole new way to enjoy their unique texture and flavor. It adds an exciting spicy kick!
- Planning your holiday menu and need more inspiration? Don’t miss our comprehensive guide to favorite Christmas side dishes, packed with ideas that will complement any festive meal.
Finally, if you fall in love with this crispy smashed fingerling potatoes recipe and decide to make them, please be sure to show your appreciation by giving this recipe a star rating on the recipe card below and/or leaving a comment! Your feedback is incredibly valuable, and I genuinely love hearing about your cooking experiences. I always make an effort to respond to every single comment and answer any questions you might have.
Don’t hesitate to drop your questions below in the comments section – I’m here to help you succeed in the kitchen!
Oh, and for an extra special treat for me, be sure to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you share photos of your delicious creations! Seeing these recipes come to life in your homes is truly my favorite thing, and it means the world to me!
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Crispy Smashed Fingerling Potatoes
Equipment
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Dutch Oven (or large stockpot)
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Fine Mesh Colander
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Half Sheet Pan (or large baking sheet)
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Parchment paper or silicone mat
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Sturdy drinking glass or mason jar
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs fingerling potatoes approximately uniform in size
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter melted
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt plus more for boiling water
- 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter melted
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 Tbsp freshly chopped chives or other fresh herbs
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling vigorously, add the fingerling potatoes and boil for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are completely soft and fork-tender throughout. If your potatoes are larger, you may need to extend the cooking time a bit.
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Drain the potatoes immediately using a colander and allow them to steam dry for about 5 minutes. This crucial step helps remove excess surface moisture, which is key for maximum crispiness.
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While the potatoes are drying, preheat your oven to 425˚F (220˚C).
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Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Carefully transfer the dried, boiled potatoes to the baking sheet, ensuring they are spread in a single layer. Using the bottom of a sturdy drinking glass or a mason jar, gently press down on each potato until it flattens to about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick, creating craggy edges. Do not use a potato masher, as this can make them mushy.
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Drizzle the smashed potatoes generously with the extra virgin olive oil and the first portion of melted unsalted butter. Season evenly with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
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Bake the potatoes for 35 to 45 minutes at 425˚F (220˚C), or until they are beautifully golden brown on the edges and wonderfully crispy. For even crisping, you may want to rotate the baking sheet halfway through. If they aren’t quite crispy enough for your liking, you can place them under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes at the very end of cooking (watch carefully!).
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While the potatoes are baking, prepare the garlic herb butter. In a small bowl, combine the remaining 3 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and freshly chopped chives. Stir well to combine.
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Once baked, carefully transfer the finished crispy potatoes to a serving platter. Drizzle them generously with the prepared garlic herb butter and serve immediately as a show-stopping side dish or appetizer. Enjoy!