Hi, I’m Clara, and if you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for quick, easy, and delicious side dishes to make for your family. Between school, work, and all the other things that fill our days, it’s hard to find the time to cook! That’s why I’m so excited to share my Cheesy Smashed Potatoes recipe with you. These potatoes are incredibly easy to make, totally family-friendly, and can be on the table in under 30 minutes. Ready to make some cheesy smashed potatoes? Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Cheesy Smashed Potatoes
I think my Cheesy Smashed Potatoes recipe is the best, and here’s why!
- These are faster than other smashed potato recipes you might have tried; I know time is precious.
- The garlic-infused shortening I use adds a unique depth of flavor that elevates the potatoes.
- I guarantee that you will get deliciously crispy edges every time.
- You can customize these with different cheeses and toppings to suit everyone’s tastes, making them a hit with the whole family.
What Makes These Potatoes Special
I use small red potatoes for this recipe, and it makes all the difference. Their thin skin crisps up beautifully when smashed and baked, while the inside stays wonderfully creamy. This texture contrast is what makes these potatoes so irresistible. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!
Cheesy Smashed Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse and scrub the potatoes under cold water. Preheat the oven to 500°F and spray a rimmed baking sheet with non-stick spray.
- Fill a medium pot with water and bring to a boil. Add two tablespoons Kosher salt and boil potatoes for about 15 minutes until fork tender.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the vegetable shortening. Stir in the minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, and black pepper.
- Drain the potatoes and pat dry so the olive oil adheres well to the skin. Toss potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Place the potatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each one gently using a heavy glass or potato masher until about 1/2-inch thick.
- Brush each smashed potato with the garlic-shortening mixture. Bake for 5–7 minutes to crisp up the edges.
- Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of chives and cover with grated cheese. Garnish with remaining chives and bake again for another 5–7 minutes until cheese is bubbling and golden.
Notes
Ingredients for Cheesy Smashed Potatoes
Here’s what you’ll need to make my Cheesy Smashed Potatoes:
- 1.5 lbs. small red potatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- salt and pepper to taste
- 4 tablespoons vegetable shortening
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Monterey Jack / Colby cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create the best Cheesy Smashed Potatoes.
- Rinse and gently scrub the potatoes under cold water.
- Preheat oven to 500° F. Prepare a rimmed baking sheet by spraying it with cooking spray.
- Fill a medium pot with water. When it comes to a boil, add two tablespoons Kosher salt.
- Place potatoes into water and boil for 15 minutes until fork tender.
- In a small microwavable bowl, melt the vegetable shortening. Add the minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mix well.
- Drain the potatoes and pat dry if needed so that the olive oil will adhere to the skin.
- Pour the 3 tablespoons olive oil into a large bowl, add salt and pepper to taste and add potatoes. Toss gently to coat.
- Place potatoes on a rimmed baking sheet
- With a heavy bottomed glass, flatten each potato so that they are about 1/2-inch thick or so. You can also use a potato masher.
- Using a pastry brush, brush each potato with the vegetable shortening mixture.
- Bake for 5 – 7 minutes.
- Using 1 tablespoon of the chives, sprinkle each potato.
- Place an equal amount of grated cheese on each potato.
- Sprinkle the remaining chives on top.
- Bake for 5 – 7 minutes.
Pro Tips for the Crispiest Cheesy Smashed Potatoes
Want to take your Cheesy Smashed Potatoes to the next level? Here are a couple of tricks I’ve learned over the years.
First, make sure to dry the potatoes thoroughly after boiling. This removes excess moisture, which is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown crust. A hot oven is also key! The high heat promotes rapid crisping, giving you those irresistible crispy edges we all love.
Recipe Variations
Want to mix things up a bit? Here are a few delicious variations on my Cheesy Smashed Potatoes recipe.
| Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| Spicy Cheesy Smashed Potatoes | Add diced jalapenos and a pinch of cayenne pepper for delicious spicy recipe variations. |
| Loaded Cheesy Smashed Potatoes | Top with bacon bits and a dollop of sour cream after baking. |
| Mediterranean Cheesy Smashed Potatoes | Use feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of oregano for a taste of the Mediterranean. |
How to Store and Reheat
If you have any leftover Cheesy Smashed Potatoes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep for up to 3 days. To reheat, I recommend using the oven or air fryer to maintain their crispiness. A few minutes at 350°F should do the trick.
Cheesy Smashed Potatoes: Substitutions and Additions
Here are some simple swaps to customize your Cheesy Smashed Potatoes:
| Ingredient | Substitution Options |
|---|---|
| Potatoes | Yukon Gold or baby potatoes |
| Cheese | Cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyere, or a blend |
| Seasoning | Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika |
What to Serve with Cheesy Smashed Potatoes
Cheesy Smashed Potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dips. I like serving them with ranch, spicy mayo, or blue cheese dressing. As for main dishes, they complement anything from amazing grilled chicken or steak to roasted vegetables. They would also be great with a simple salad for a light meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best cheeses to use other than cheddar or mozzarella?
Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a tangy goat cheese can add a unique twist.
Can you grill these potatoes?
Yes! Place the smashed potatoes on a grill pan and cook over medium heat until crispy and golden.
How do you prevent the potatoes from sticking to the pan?
Make sure to spray your baking sheet with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper.
Can you use an air fryer instead of an oven?
Absolutely! Air fry at 400°F for about 8-10 minutes, or until crispy and golden.
How do I prevent the potatoes from not being crispy enough?
Ensure the potatoes are dry before adding oil and don’t overcrowd the baking sheet.
How do I prevent the cheese isn’t melting properly?
Make sure your oven is hot enough, and add the cheese during the last few minutes of baking so it melts without burning.
Conclusion
Cheesy Smashed Potatoes are the perfect side dish for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals. They’re easy to make, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. Now, I want to hear from you! Have you tried this recipe? What variations did you try? Leave a comment below and share your results! And if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask. I’m here to help you create delicious memories in the kitchen!
