No-Boil Crispy Roasted Smashed Potatoes

There’s a certain magic to potatoes, isn’t there? Growing up, my grandmother always had a pot of potatoes simmering on the stove, ready to be transformed into something comforting and delicious. Mashed, fried, or roasted, they were a staple. But these smashed potatoes? They hold a special place in my heart. The shattering crispness of the edges, the fluffy interior – it’s a textural symphony in every bite, and the simplicity of the recipe makes it perfect for busy weeknights. The first time I made these, my kids devoured them so quickly, I knew I had a winner.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 1 lb small red potatoes
• 2-4 tablespoons olive oil
• Lawry’s Seasoned Salt, to taste (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste (optional)

Equipment Needed

• Microwave
• Sharp knife
• Cookie sheet
• Aluminum foil (optional: non-stick)
• Spatula

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the potatoes. Thoroughly scrub them under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel.

2. Using the tip of a sharp knife, prick each potato twice. This allows steam to escape during microwaving and prevents explosions.

3. Arrange the potatoes in a circle inside your microwave. This helps ensure even cooking.

4. Microwave the potatoes on high until they are tender. The cooking time will vary depending on your microwave’s power and the size of the potatoes, but approximately 4 minutes is a good starting point. Alternatively, use your microwave’s automatic “Potato” setting if it has one. The potatoes should be easily pierced with a fork when done.

5. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

6. Line a cookie sheet with foil. Non-stick foil is preferable to minimize sticking.

7. Carefully place the cooked potatoes onto the prepared cookie sheet.

8. Now comes the fun part: gently smash the potatoes. Use the back of a spatula or a potato masher to press down on each potato, flattening it slightly. Be careful not to completely flatten them; you want to maintain some height. The goal is to create more surface area for crispy edges.

9. Drizzle olive oil generously over the smashed potatoes. Using your hands or a spoon, turn the potatoes to coat them evenly with olive oil. Ensure the oil gets into all the nooks and crannies created by smashing.

10. Season the potatoes to your liking. Sprinkle with Lawry’s Seasoned Salt for a flavorful kick, or simply use salt and pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it’s crucial for the final flavor.

11. Roast the smashed potatoes in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Turn the potatoes halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning on both sides. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent burning. The desired degree of doneness depends on your preference for crispiness.

12. Once the smashed potatoes are beautifully golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oven and serve immediately.

Note: If you have a convection oven and roast the potatoes immediately after microwaving, while they are still hot, the roasting time may be closer to 20 minutes. If the potatoes have cooled down before roasting, it will take longer.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For extra crispy edges, try placing the smashed potatoes under the broiler for the last minute or two of cooking, but watch them closely to prevent burning.
• If you don’t have Lawry’s Seasoned Salt, you can use a combination of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt for a similar flavor profile.
• Don’t overcrowd the cookie sheet. If necessary, use two cookie sheets to ensure the potatoes roast evenly. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
• For a richer flavor, try using duck fat or bacon fat instead of olive oil.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices. Rosemary, thyme, and oregano are all delicious additions.
• If you want to make these ahead of time, you can microwave and smash the potatoes, then store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to roast. Just add the olive oil and seasonings before roasting.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these crispy roasted smashed potatoes hot as a side dish to almost any main course. They are fantastic with grilled chicken, steak, fish, or even vegetarian dishes. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.

Leftover smashed potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, spread them out on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy again. You can also reheat them in a skillet with a little olive oil. Microwaving is not recommended as it will make them soggy. They are best consumed fresh for optimal crispness. Freezing is not recommended, as it will affect the texture.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	200 kcal	10%
Total Fat	9g	12%
Saturated Fat	1.5g	8%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	250mg	11%
Total Carbohydrate	28g	10%
Dietary Fiber	3g	11%
Sugars	1g	–
Protein	3g	6%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• For a vegan version, ensure you are using a vegan-friendly seasoned salt or simply use salt and pepper with other herbs and spices.
• Try using different types of potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes.
• Add grated Parmesan cheese during the last few minutes of roasting for a cheesy twist (not vegan).
• Spice things up by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• For a sweeter flavor, drizzle with a little maple syrup or honey after roasting (not vegan).

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use large potatoes for this recipe?
A: Yes, but you may need to microwave them for a longer time until they are tender. You may also need to cut them into smaller pieces before smashing.

Q: Why do I need to prick the potatoes before microwaving?
A: Pricking the potatoes allows steam to escape, preventing them from exploding in the microwave.

Q: Can I use an air fryer instead of roasting them in the oven?
A: Absolutely! Air frying will give you similar crispy results. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q: My smashed potatoes are sticking to the cookie sheet. What can I do?
A: Make sure you are using enough olive oil and that the cookie sheet is properly lined with non-stick foil.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
A: Yes! Brussels sprouts, broccoli florets, or chopped carrots can be added to the cookie sheet along with the potatoes for a complete side dish. Adjust cooking times as needed.

Final Thoughts

These no-boil crispy roasted smashed potatoes are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Their simplicity makes them accessible to cooks of all skill levels, while their deliciousness elevates any meal. So, go ahead, gather your ingredients, and give this recipe a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Don’t hesitate to experiment with different seasonings and herbs to create your own signature version. And please, let me know what you think. What did you pair them with? What variations did you try? Happy cooking!