Ultimate Smashed Potatoes

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Introduction

Loaded Smashed Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, taking mashed potatoes to a whole new level of indulgence. Imagine creamy, velvety mashed potatoes with crispy, golden edges, topped with all the best fixings: gooey melted cheese, crunchy bacon, fresh green onions, and a dollop of sour cream. Each bite is a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and crispy, making these potatoes the star of any meal. Whether it’s a family dinner, a holiday celebration, or just a cozy weeknight, these potatoes will always steal the show.

The first time I made Loaded Smashed Potatoes, I couldn’t believe how easy and delicious they were. After smashing the boiled potatoes to create that perfect texture, the combination of crispy edges and creamy centers was just irresistible. Layering on the toppings—cheese, bacon, and sour cream—felt like a fun and satisfying way to take comfort food to the next level. By the time they were ready, my kitchen smelled like a warm, inviting feast.

What I love most about Loaded Smashed Potatoes is how customizable they are. You can add extra toppings like jalapeños for a spicy kick, swap the bacon for sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist, or drizzle with ranch dressing for an extra layer of flavor. These potatoes are perfect as a side to your favorite main course or even as the star of the show when you want a hearty and satisfying dish that everyone will love.

Perfect for:

  • Family dinners
  • Holiday meals
  • Potluck gatherings
  • Barbecue parties
  • Comfort food cravings

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Loaded Smashed Potatoes will become your favorite side dish:

  • Crispy Edges, Creamy Inside: The combination of crispy, roasted edges and creamy mashed potato centers creates the perfect texture.
  • Toppings Galore: With melted cheese, crispy bacon, sour cream, and green onions, every bite is bursting with flavor.
  • Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and a straightforward preparation make these potatoes a breeze to prepare.
  • Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for feeding a group, these loaded potatoes will be a hit at your next gathering.
  • Customizable: You can add your favorite toppings to suit your tastes, from cheese to veggies to extra protein.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 50 minutes
  • Servings: 4-6 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 10g, Carbs: 50g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Loaded Smashed Potatoes:

  • 2 lbs baby potatoes or small russet potatoes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for extra creaminess)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Potatoes: Baby potatoes or small russets are the perfect choice for smashing, with just the right balance of creamy texture and sturdy skins.
  • Cheddar Cheese: The shredded cheddar melts beautifully on top, creating gooey pockets of cheesy goodness.
  • Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a savory, smoky flavor and crunch.
  • Sour Cream: Adds a tangy, creamy element that perfectly balances the richness of the cheese and bacon.
  • Green Onions: Fresh green onions provide a pop of color and a mild, oniony flavor that cuts through the richness of the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes:

  1. Boil the Potatoes: Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes, then drain well.
  2. Smash the Potatoes: Using a potato masher or fork, gently smash the potatoes until they are mostly broken apart but still chunky. You can leave the skins on for extra texture and flavor.
  3. Season: Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Gently mix to coat the potatoes evenly.

Roast the Potatoes:

  1. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. Transfer and Roast: Spread the smashed potatoes onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden brown.

Add the Toppings:

  1. Top with Cheese and Bacon: Remove the potatoes from the oven and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. Return to the oven for another 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  2. Add Sour Cream and Green Onions: Once out of the oven, top with a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle with chopped green onions. Add an extra pat of butter on top for richness, if desired.

How to Serve

  • As a Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled meats, roasted chicken, or a hearty steak for a complete meal.
  • At a Party: These loaded smashed potatoes are perfect for a potluck or as a party appetizer.
  • For a Comforting Meal: Serve them with a side of vegetables and your favorite protein for a cozy dinner.
  • In a Bowl: Serve in individual bowls for a personal touch.

Additional Tips

  • Leave the Skins On: For extra texture and flavor, leave the skins on the potatoes when smashing.
  • Use a Sturdy Potato: Baby potatoes or small russets hold up well when smashed and roasted.
  • Crispy Edges: To get the crispiest edges, don’t overcrowd the potatoes on the baking sheet and make sure to smash them well.
  • Make Ahead: You can prep the potatoes ahead of time by boiling and smashing them, then refrigerating them. Just roast and add toppings when ready to serve.
  • Try Different Cheeses: While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or gouda for a different twist.

Recipe Variations

  1. Buffalo Loaded Smashed Potatoes: Drizzle with buffalo sauce before adding cheese for a spicy kick.
  2. Garlic Parmesan Loaded Smashed Potatoes: Top with garlic butter and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
  3. Ranch Loaded Smashed Potatoes: Add ranch dressing and a sprinkle of dill for a cool, tangy twist.
  4. BBQ Loaded Smashed Potatoes: Top with pulled pork or chicken and drizzle with barbecue sauce.
  5. Vegetarian Loaded Smashed Potatoes: Skip the bacon and add roasted vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn for a meatless option.
  6. Mexican Loaded Smashed Potatoes: Top with taco-seasoned ground beef, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and salsa.
  7. Cheesy Bacon Ranch Loaded Smashed Potatoes: Combine ranch seasoning with the bacon and cheese for a creamy, savory topping.
  8. Smoked Paprika Loaded Smashed Potatoes: Sprinkle with smoked paprika for a smoky depth of flavor.
  9. Mushroom and Swiss Loaded Smashed Potatoes: Top with sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese for an earthy flavor.
  10. Pesto Loaded Smashed Potatoes: Drizzle with basil pesto before adding cheese for a fresh, herby flavor.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Freeze the roasted, topped potatoes on a baking sheet until firm. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to crisp them up.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, though the crispy edges will be less crunchy when reheated in the microwave.

Special Equipment

  • Potato Masher: Essential for smashing the potatoes to your desired consistency. A traditional masher or a ricer can work for a smoother texture.
  • Roasting Pan: A large, rimmed roasting pan is perfect for baking the smashed potatoes evenly, especially if you’re making a large batch.
  • Baking Sheet: If you’re crisping up the potatoes, a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil helps them bake evenly.
  • Cast Iron Skillet: Ideal for achieving a crispy crust when pan-searing the potatoes after smashing.
  • Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker: Speeds up cooking the potatoes, allowing you to smash them quickly after they’re cooked.
  • Stand Mixer: If you prefer a smoother mashed texture, a stand mixer with a paddle attachment can create fluffy potatoes with ease.
  • Grater or Microplane: For finely grating cheese, garlic, or fresh herbs to sprinkle on top for extra flavor.
  • Garlic Press: Makes it easy to incorporate garlic into the mashed potatoes or to add minced garlic into the topping.
  • Squeeze Bottle: For drizzling sour cream, ranch, or any sauce precisely over the loaded potatoes.
  • Tongs: Useful for flipping and handling the smashed potatoes while making sure they don’t break apart.

FAQ

  1. Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes? Yes, russet potatoes work well for mashed potatoes but may result in a different texture.
  2. Can I make these potatoes ahead of time? Yes, boil and smash the potatoes the day before, then roast and top with cheese and bacon when ready to serve.
  3. Can I use a different cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as gouda, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist.
  4. Are these potatoes gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you stick to the basic ingredients.
  5. Can I make these potatoes spicy? Yes, drizzle with hot sauce or sprinkle with red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Conclusion

Loaded Smashed Potatoes are the ultimate side dish, offering the perfect combination of crispy, creamy, and cheesy flavors. These potatoes are a crowd favorite, with endless topping possibilities to suit every taste. Whether served at a family dinner, a party, or simply as a satisfying snack, they’re guaranteed to please.

With their golden, crispy edges and soft, buttery centers, these smashed potatoes are the perfect canvas for cheese, bacon, sour cream, green onions, and more. You can easily customize them to your liking, making them a versatile addition to any meal.

I can’t wait to see your Loaded Smashed Potato creations! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see how you personalize this dish. Don’t forget to share your favorite toppings in the comments. Happy cooking!

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