Enjoy our single serve Smashed Potatoes Recipe, delivering crispy exteriors, creamy centers, and cheesy flavor. Easy recipe that is perfect as a side or main dish.
Preheating and Preparing Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Clean the potatoes thoroughly, scrubbing off any dirt and rinsing them under cool water. Put the potatoes in a 2-quart saucepan and fill with enough water to completely submerge them. Add ¼ teaspoon salt to the water.
Boiling Potatoes: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring to a boil. Let the potatoes cook until they are tender, which should take about 15 minutes. Note that larger potatoes may need 20-25 minutes. You can check their doneness by gently piercing them with a fork. Once done, drain them in a colander and let them cool for 5 minutes.
Preparing for Baking: Arrange the boiled potatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil and use your hands to ensure they are evenly coated on all sides.
Smashing Potatoes: Use the bottom of a small drinking glass or a potato masher to carefully press down on each potato, smashing them into flat patties. Do this gently to maintain their shape.
Seasoning: Pour melted butter over the smashed potatoes. Then, sprinkle them with minced garlic, the remaining salt, pepper, dried rosemary, and Parmesan cheese.
Baking and Serving: Bake the potatoes in the preheated oven until their bottoms are crisp and their tops turn golden, about 20 minutes. Serve them hot for the best experience.
Notes
Start with tender potatoes. For the best texture, make sure the potatoes are boiled until they're easily pierced with a fork.
Choose the right potatoes. Small potatoes (like baby potatoes or new potatoes) are best for smashing.
Don't overcrowd the pan. Give the potatoes space on a rimmed baking sheet so they get those perfect crispy edges.
Prep ahead for convenience. Boil the potatoes a day ahead, cool them down, and store them in the fridge.