After a long week of meal prepping and takeout, I found myself craving something comforting yet effortless. That’s when I decided to whip up a batch of Smashed Fingerling Potatoes with Rosemary Garlic Butter. The moment those fluffy potatoes hit the oven, an intoxicating aroma enveloped my kitchen, melding the warmth of roasted garlic with the herbal essence of fresh rosemary.
These crispy bites weren’t just a side dish; they became the star of the table! With only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can transform simple baby potatoes into a delightful sensation that pairs perfectly with just about anything. Whether you need a quick weeknight treat or an impressive dish for entertaining, these smashed potatoes deliver on every front. They offer a satisfying crunch on the outside and a tender, buttery inside, enhanced by rich, garlicky goodness. With each bite, you’ll taste the love and warmth of homemade cooking that fast food simply can’t replicate. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!
Why are Smashed Fingerling Potatoes with Rosemary Garlic Butter a must?
Crispy Texture: Each potato has a satisfyingly crunchy exterior that gives way to a fluffy inside, making these a true treat.
Effortless Preparation: The straightforward steps and a handful of ingredients ensure anyone can whip this up in no time.
Flavor Explosion: The fragrant blend of garlic and rosemary elevates the potatoes, transforming them from simple to sensational.
Versatile Side Dish: Perfectly complements any main course, from grilled meats to fresh salads, making them a staple in your kitchen.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Watch your family and friends delight in the irresistible aroma and taste, leaving everyone coming back for more!
Smashed Fingerling Potatoes Ingredients
• Get ready to create a delightful side dish that everyone will crave!
For the Potatoes
- 1 1/2 pounds fingerling potatoes or baby potatoes – Choose these for their creamy texture and flavor that shines when roasted.
- Kosher salt – Essential for enhancing the natural taste of the potatoes.
- Freshly-ground black pepper – Adds a subtle heat that complements the garlic and rosemary.
For the Seasoning
- 3 Tablespoons olive oil – Helps to achieve that beautiful golden color while providing a healthy fat.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder – Enhances the savory flavor and aroma, a key player in your garlic butter effect.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder – Adds depth to the flavor profile without overpowering the potatoes.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika – Introduces a touch of smokiness, giving your potatoes a delightful twist.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne (or to taste) – For those who enjoy a spicy kick, this adds just the right amount of heat!
For the Garlic Butter
- 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter – The base of your delicious garlic mixture that will coat every potato for that rich flavor.
- 1 Tablespoon minced garlic – Fresh garlic brings an irresistible aroma as it caramelizes in the oven.
- 2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary – Provides a fragrant herbal note, perfectly complementing the garlic and potatoes.
For Serving
- Flaky salt – A sprinkle on top right before serving elevates everything with a pop of flavor that’s optional but highly recommended!
How to Make Smashed Fingerling Potatoes with Rosemary Garlic Butter
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Boil Potatoes: Start by placing the potatoes in a large pot filled with water, covering them by at least an inch. Season the water generously with salt and bring it to a rolling boil. Boil for about 15-18 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
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Drain and Dry: Once tender, drain the potatoes in a colander. Let them sit for 5-10 minutes, giving the colander a gentle shake halfway through to ensure they dry completely.
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Preheat the Oven: While the potatoes are drying, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and grease a sheet pan with olive oil to prevent sticking.
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Season Potatoes: Spread the dried potatoes on the prepared sheet pan. Drizzle olive oil over them, then sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne. Toss until every potato is well-coated in the delicious seasoning mix.
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Smash Potatoes: Using a flat-bottomed glass or ramekin, gently smash each potato until they are about 1/2 inch thick. If they stick, coat your glass with a bit of olive oil. Arrange the smashed potatoes about 1/2-1 inch apart on the sheet pan.
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Bake: Place the sheet pan in the oven and bake for 20 minutes. Flip the potatoes halfway through to ensure they get crispy on both sides, achieving that perfect texture.
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Make Garlic Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter, minced garlic, and rosemary. Microwave for about 30 seconds until melted. Alternatively, melt them in a small saucepan over low heat.
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Add Garlic Butter: After baking, take the potatoes out of the oven and spoon the garlic butter evenly over each one. Return the potatoes to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the garlic fragrance to fill your kitchen and make the bottoms extra crispy.
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Serve: Transfer the crispy potatoes to a serving platter and sprinkle with flaky salt, if desired. Enjoy the heavenly flavors!
Optional: For an extra touch, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Smashed Fingerling Potatoes with Rosemary Garlic Butter
Room Temperature: For best flavor, enjoy your smashed potatoes fresh. If left out, consume within 2 hours to avoid spoilage.
Fridge: Store any leftover Smashed Fingerling Potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Freezer: You can freeze these potatoes for up to 2 months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container after cooling, and separate layers with parchment paper.
Reheating: For reheating, pop them back in the oven at 400°F (204°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Enjoy!
Smashed Fingerling Potatoes Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that can elevate your smashed potatoes into something truly special!
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Herb-Infused: Add 1 tablespoon of dried thyme or oregano in place of rosemary for a different herbaceous flavor. This will transform your potatoes into a fragrant delight that resonates with fresh herbal notes.
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Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking for a melty, indulgent finish. The rich, gooey cheese pairs perfectly with the crispy potato crust, creating a heavenly bite.
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Vegan Delight: Swap butter for vegan butter and use a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. This keeps the dish rich and creamy without any dairy, making it a fantastic option for vegan friends or family!
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Spicy Kick: For a fiery version, increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. This will give your potatoes a satisfying heat that makes each bite a flavorful adventure.
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Lemon Zest: Add the zest of a lemon to the garlic butter before drizzling it over the smashed potatoes. The citrus notes brighten the flavors, making your dish taste fresh and lively.
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Truffle Bliss: Drizzle some truffle oil over the finished potatoes for a luxurious touch. This gourmet addition elevates the potatoes to a whole new level of indulgence that will impress your guests.
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Creamy Garlic Dip: Serve with a garlic aioli or sour cream dip infused with chives. The creamy textures and fresh herb flavors balance the crunch of your potatoes, making it a delightful pairing.
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Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a touch of balsamic reduction over the potatoes right before serving. This sweet and tangy condiment adds depth and complements the garlic essence beautifully.
What to Serve with Crispy Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes?
Elevate your meal by pairing these flavorful crispy potatoes with delightful dishes that complement their rich, garlicky essence!
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy chicken infused with herbs complements the crispy potatoes, creating a balanced and satisfying plate.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies brings freshness and color, adding a wonderful crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy inside of the potatoes.
- Steak or Beef Skewers: The savory depth of grilled meat enhances the satisfying crunch of the smashed potatoes, making each bite a savory delight.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast, cutting through the richness of the garlic butter for a well-rounded meal.
- Garlic Butter Shrimp: Echoing the garlic flavor in your potatoes, these tender shrimp create a luxurious seafood dish that’s hard to resist.
- Herbed Salad: A light salad with fresh herbs and citrus dressing can brighten the meal, refreshing every bite while highlighting the potatoes’ warmth.
- Zesty Dipping Sauce: Consider serving with a yogurt or sour cream dip infused with herbs; the creaminess pairs perfectly with the potatoes’ crispy profile.
- Red Wine: A bold red wine enhances the savory experience, making your dinner feel even more special and indulgent!
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Finish off the meal with a rich dessert like a molten lava cake, leaving everyone with a sweet smile after those garlicky bites!
Make Ahead Options
These Smashed Fingerling Potatoes with Rosemary Garlic Butter are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can boil and dry the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to maintain their quality. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply follow the seasoning and smashing steps, then bake them straight from the fridge. For best results, prepare the garlic butter ahead and keep it in an airtight container for up to 3 days; just reheat before spooning over the potatoes when they’re crispy. This way, you save time on busy weeknights, still achieving that delicious, homemade flavor without the fuss!
Expert Tips for Smashed Fingerling Potatoes
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Choose Wisely: Use uniform-sized fingerling or baby potatoes to ensure even cooking. This helps prevent some from being undercooked while others are overdone.
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Drying is Key: Allow the potatoes to completely dry after boiling. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture once they’re baked!
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Don’t Overcrowd: Spread smashed potatoes out on the sheet pan with some space in between. Overcrowding can trap steam and make them soggy instead of crispy.
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Smash Softly: When smashing, apply gentle pressure. A too-aggressive smash can make them fall apart, losing that ideal texture in your Smashed Fingerling Potatoes with Rosemary Garlic Butter.
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Finishing Touch: Add flaky salt right before serving to enhance the flavors. It will bring out the warmth of the garlic and the earthiness of the potatoes beautifully!
Smashed Fingerling Potatoes with Rosemary Garlic Butter Recipe FAQs
What kind of potatoes are best for smashing?
I recommend using fingerling potatoes or baby potatoes for this recipe. Their creamy texture and small size make them perfect for achieving that fluffy interior and crispy exterior, which is essential for the best smashed potato experience!
How do I store leftover smashed potatoes?
After serving, store any leftover Smashed Fingerling Potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the oven at 400°F (204°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their delicious crispiness!
Can I freeze smashed potatoes?
Absolutely! You can freeze these delightful potatoes for up to 2 months. Here’s how: allow the cooked potatoes to cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat directly from the freezer!
Why are my smashed potatoes not crispy?
There are a couple of reasons for this! First, ensure the potatoes are thoroughly dried after boiling; moisture will lead to sogginess. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan when baking—give them room to breathe so that they can achieve that crispy texture on the outside. Spacing them out is key!
Can I serve these potatoes as a vegetarian dish?
Yes! These Smashed Fingerling Potatoes with Rosemary Garlic Butter are inherently vegetarian-friendly. If you’re looking to make them vegan, substitute the butter for olive oil or a vegan butter alternative, and you’ll still enjoy that delightful flavor!
Are there any dietary considerations for pets?
While these mashed potatoes are loved by humans, it’s important to note that garlic can be toxic to dogs and some other pets. Therefore, it’s best to keep these delicious potatoes as a special treat just for you and avoid sharing with your furry friends.
Crispy Smashed Fingerling Potatoes with Rosemary Garlic Butter
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil Potatoes: Place the potatoes in a large pot filled with water, covering them by at least an inch. Season with salt and bring to a rolling boil. Boil for about 15-18 minutes until fork-tender.
- Drain and Dry: Drain the potatoes in a colander and let them sit for 5-10 minutes, shaking gently to ensure they are dry.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and grease a sheet pan with olive oil.
- Season Potatoes: Spread the dried potatoes on the sheet pan, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne. Toss to coat.
- Smash Potatoes: Using a flat-bottomed glass, gently smash each potato to about 1/2 inch thick, and arrange them on the sheet pan.
- Bake: Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
- Make Garlic Butter: Combine the butter, minced garlic, and rosemary in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for about 30 seconds until melted.
- Add Garlic Butter: Spoon the garlic butter over the potatoes and return to oven for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving platter, sprinkle with flaky salt, and enjoy!