Picture this: It’s a chilly autumn evening, and the aroma of garlic and thyme wafts through your kitchen. You’re about to indulge in a plate of crispy, golden-brown smashed potatoes that are perfectly seasoned and irresistibly delicious. Sound tempting? Let me share with you my favorite recipe for these heavenly spuds!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs small to medium-sized potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best)
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Let’s Get Cooking!
- Boil the potatoes: Place your potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Preheat and prep: While the potatoes are boiling, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Smash ’em: Drain the potatoes and let them cool for a few minutes. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each potato. Using the bottom of a glass or a potato masher, gently press down on each potato to “smash” it to about 1/2 inch thickness.
- Season generously: Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil, making sure each one gets a good coating. Sprinkle minced garlic, thyme leaves, salt, and pepper over the potatoes. Don’t be shy with the seasonings – this is where the magic happens!
- Roast to perfection: Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden brown. For extra crispiness, switch to the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
The Secret to Golden Brown Perfection
To achieve that irresistible golden brown exterior, here are a few pro tips:
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated before roasting.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet – give each potato room to crisp up.
- Flip the potatoes halfway through cooking for even browning.
- If using, sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the potatoes during the last 5 minutes of roasting for an extra crispy, cheesy crust.
Serving Suggestions
These crispy smashed potatoes are versatile enough to complement almost any main dish. Serve them alongside a juicy steak, grilled chicken, or your favorite roasted vegetables. For a delightful vegetarian meal, pair them with a fresh green salad and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
There you have it – the perfect recipe for crispy, garlic and thyme smashed potatoes with a golden brown exterior that will have your taste buds dancing! The combination of creamy interiors and crispy exteriors, infused with the aromatic flavors of garlic and thyme, makes these potatoes an absolute crowd-pleaser.
Ready to give it a try? Grab those potatoes and get smashing! Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with us in the comments below. Happy cooking!
