Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic-Chili Butter Recipe

If you’re craving a snack or side dish that bursts with flavor and texture, let me introduce you to the Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic-Chili Butter Recipe. This dish is all about golden, crunchy edges paired with a luscious garlic and chili-infused butter that dances on your taste buds. Simple yet irresistible, it transforms humble small potatoes into a star-worthy delight that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying solo. Whether you’re entertaining friends or just treating yourself, these potatoes deliver comfort and excitement in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic-Chili Butter Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a balanced, vibrant dish— from the creamy potatoes to the spicy, buttery topping. Here’s everything you’ll need to craft these crispy bites:

• Small potatoes (1–1.5 kg): Choose firm, evenly sized potatoes for uniform cooking and smashing ease.
• Salt (1 tbsp): Essential for seasoning the water and drawing out the potatoes’ natural flavors.
• Olive oil (2-3 tbsp): Adds richness and helps crispy edges form during roasting.
• Salt & black pepper to taste: The classic seasoning duo that enhances every aspect of the dish.
• Finely chopped parsley (optional garnish): Brings a fresh, bright contrast to the rich potatoes.
• Paprika or chili powder: Adds a smoky or spicy kick, customizable to your heat preference.
• Vegan parmesan (3-4 tbsp): Provides salty, cheesy notes without dairy, melting beautifully on top.
• Garlic (3 cloves, finely minced): The fragrant heart of the garlic-chili butter, infusing the dish with bold flavor.
• Butter or vegan butter (3 tbsp): The rich base of the garlic-chili butter sauce that brings everything together.
• Chili flakes (1 tsp): For that fiery, lingering heat that elevates the buttery garlic.
• Fresh parsley (chopped): Freshness that cuts through the richness and adds vibrant color.
• Extra parmesan (optional, for topping): The final sprinkle for an irresistibly cheesy finish.

How to Make Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic-Chili Butter Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Boil the Potatoes

Start by washing your small potatoes thoroughly since their skins stay on. Place them in a pot with cold water, add 1 tablespoon of salt, and bring it to a boil. Let them cook until they’re tender and easily pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes. This prep ensures your potatoes are soft enough to smash but not falling apart.

Step 2: Smash the Potatoes

Drain the boiled potatoes and transfer them onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using a robust glass bottom or a potato masher, gently press down each potato to flatten it to about half its original thickness. It’s important to keep them intact while creating lots of surface area for crispiness.

Step 3: Season and Roast

Drizzle 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil evenly over the smashed potatoes. Then sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and either paprika or chili powder for a subtle smoky or spicy edge. Pop them into a preheated oven at 220°C (430°F) and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the potatoes are golden brown and irresistibly crispy around the edges.

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic-Chili Butter

While the potatoes roast, melt 3 tablespoons of butter or vegan butter in a small pan over low heat. Add the finely minced garlic and chili flakes, cooking gently until fragrant and the garlic is soft but not browned. Stir in chopped fresh parsley for that fresh herbaceous note. This sauce is the soul of the Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic-Chili Butter Recipe, giving it that perfectly spicy, buttery finish.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Once your potatoes come out golden and crunchy, brush each generously with the warm garlic-chili butter. Sprinkle vegan parmesan over the top, and if you like, add extra parmesan and chopped parsley for garnish. Serve immediately to enjoy the full crisp and flavor combo!

How to Serve Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic-Chili Butter Recipe

Garnishes

A handful of finely chopped fresh parsley brightens up the plate visually and brings a refreshing contrast to the crispy, buttery potatoes. For extra indulgence, sprinkle on some more vegan parmesan or even a dash of flaky sea salt right before serving to elevate the textural experience.

Side Dishes

Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic-Chili Butter Recipe pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, mixed green salads, or a tangy coleslaw to balance richness. They also work as a crowd-pleasing accompaniment to roasted chicken, seared steak, or even a plant-based main like mushroom steaks.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve these potatoes stacked as a mini tower drizzled with extra garlic-chili butter and sprinkled with fresh herbs for an elegant appetizer. You can also turn them into loaded bites by topping with a dollop of vegan sour cream, crispy bacon bits, or a spoonful of fresh salsa to surprise and delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep any leftover Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic-Chili Butter Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain some crispiness, avoid covering the potatoes directly with sauce—store sauce separately and reapply before reheating or serving.

Freezing

While freezing fresh smashed potatoes is possible, the texture can become slightly softer after thawing. If you want to freeze, flash-freeze the smashed potatoes on a tray first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Freeze the garlic-chili butter sauce in a separate container so you can freshen up the dish when reheating.

Reheating

To bring back that crisp texture, reheat the potatoes in a hot oven or toaster oven at 200°C (390°F) for about 10 minutes. Reheat the garlic-chili butter gently on the stovetop or microwave and brush it over the potatoes afterward for that freshly made flavor boost.

FAQs

Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?

Absolutely! While small waxy potatoes work best for their creamy texture and easy smashing, you can also try baby Yukon Golds or fingerlings. Avoid starchy varieties like Russets as they can become too crumbly.

Is there a vegan alternative for the butter and parmesan?

Yes, using vegan butter and vegan parmesan works perfectly. They still give you that rich, buttery flavor and cheesy finish that complement the garlic and chili beautifully.

How spicy is this recipe?

The heat level is easily adjustable by varying the amount of chili flakes and paprika. For a milder version, reduce the chili flakes or omit them; for a punchier dish, increase the quantity or add fresh chopped chilies.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely! All ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, making this a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

What’s the best way to get the potatoes extra crispy?

Ensuring plenty of olive oil coverage and giving each potato enough space on the baking sheet helps develop crispiness. Turning them halfway through roasting encourages even browning and crunch.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly satisfying about the combination of textures and bold flavors in the Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Garlic-Chili Butter Recipe. It’s simple comfort food elevated to a deliciously exciting level, guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen routine. So grab those little potatoes, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this crispy, buttery revelry— you’re going to love every bite!

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