Irresistibly Delicious Smashed Potatoes Recipe with Garlic Butter

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**Loaded Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort Food**

Potatoes have always been a beloved comfort food, and when you combine their natural creaminess with rich garlic butter, crispy edges, and a medley of toppings, you get the ultimate side dish: Loaded Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes. This smashed potatoes recipe is perfect for beginners looking to impress their family and friends with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

### Why Smashed Potatoes?
Smashed potatoes are the perfect middle ground between mashed potatoes and crispy roasted potatoes. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. Unlike mashed potatoes, they don’t require peeling or intense mashing, making them incredibly beginner-friendly. Add a garlic butter glaze and a selection of your favorite toppings, and you have a dish that’s versatile enough for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering.

### Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this **Smashed Potatoes Recipe**, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen:

#### For the Potatoes:
– 1.5 lbs (700g) baby potatoes (red or gold work best)
– Salt (for boiling water)

#### For the Garlic Butter:
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp fresh rosemary or thyme (optional, for an herbal touch)
– Salt and pepper to taste

#### Toppings (Optional but Recommended):
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 slices crispy bacon, crumbled
– 2 tbsp chopped green onions or chives
– 2 tbsp sour cream

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### Step-by-Step Instructions

#### 1. **Prepare the Potatoes**
Start by thoroughly washing your baby potatoes to remove any dirt. Since we’ll keep the skins on for extra texture and nutrients, it’s essential they’re clean.

1. Place the potatoes in a large pot of salted water.
2. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender.
3. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly so they’re easier to handle.

#### 2. **Smash the Potatoes**
This is where the magic happens:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Arrange the boiled potatoes on the sheet, leaving some space between each.
3. Use a potato masher, fork, or the flat bottom of a glass to gently press each potato until it flattens but doesn’t break apart completely.

#### 3. **Make the Garlic Butter**
While the oven preheats, prepare the flavorful garlic butter:

1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the olive oil and minced garlic, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Stir in the rosemary or thyme if using, and season with salt and pepper.

#### 4. **Brush and Bake**
1. Generously brush the smashed potatoes with the garlic butter, ensuring all crevices are coated for maximum flavor.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy.

#### 5. **Add the Toppings**
Once the potatoes are crispy:

1. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and return to the oven for 3-5 minutes, just until the cheese melts.
2. Remove from the oven and add crumbled bacon, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of green onions or chives.

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### Tips for Perfect Smashed Potatoes

1. **Choose the Right Potatoes:** Baby potatoes are ideal because they have a thin skin and cook evenly. If using larger potatoes, cut them into smaller pieces for uniform cooking.
2. **Don’t Skip the Garlic Butter:** The combination of butter, garlic, and herbs is what makes these potatoes shine. Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
3. **Customize the Toppings:** While bacon, cheese, and sour cream are classic, you can experiment with other toppings like guacamole, salsa, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing.
4. **Make Ahead:** Boil the potatoes in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, smash, bake, and top as desired.

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### Serving Suggestions
These **Smashed Potatoes Recipe** is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes:

– Serve them alongside grilled steak, roasted chicken, or baked salmon.
– Use them as a centerpiece for a vegetarian meal with a hearty salad on the side.
– They’re a crowd-pleasing addition to any holiday feast or potluck.

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### Frequently Asked Questions

#### 1. **Can I make this recipe vegan?**
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with vegan butter and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. The results are just as delicious.

#### 2. **Can I use sweet potatoes instead?**
Yes, but sweet potatoes will be softer and may require more gentle smashing. The flavor will also be sweeter, so consider using toppings that complement this profile, like cinnamon or pecans.

#### 3. **How do I store leftovers?**
Store any leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to restore their crispiness.

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### Conclusion
This **Loaded Garlic Butter Smashed Potatoes Recipe** is an easy and irresistible way to elevate any meal. With its crispy edges, creamy centers, and customizable toppings, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, this recipe is your go-to for comforting, flavorful potatoes that everyone will love.

Ready to give it a try? Gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy the delicious results!

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