Baked Smashed Fingerling Potatoes

Why Make This Recipe

Baked Smashed Fingerling Potatoes are not just delicious; they are the perfect blend of crispy and fluffy textures. When you want a side dish that elevates any meal, these potatoes hit the spot. They’re easy to make and offer a great way to enjoy the natural sweetness of the fingerling variety. So, why make this recipe? Here are a few compelling reasons:

1. Simplicity: With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that looks and tastes gourmet.

2. Versatility: These potatoes pair well with a variety of main dishes, from grilled meats to vegetarian options. They are suitable for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even holiday meals.

3. Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and fresh herbs adds layers of flavor that make these potatoes irresistible.

4. Texture: The smashing technique ensures that some parts of the potato get crispy while others remain soft and fluffy, creating a delightful eating experience.

5. Healthier Side: Compared to many heavy starches or fried options, baked smashed fingerling potatoes provide a lighter alternative while still delivering an enjoyable carb experience.

How to Make Baked Smashed Fingerling Potatoes

Making Baked Smashed Fingerling Potatoes is straightforward and rewarding. The process allows you to enjoy both the delicious cooking aroma as well as the final crunchy texture. Follow these detailed steps to ensure success every time.

Ingredients

To prepare this delightful potato dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs fingerling potatoes: These small, elongated potatoes are known for their creamy texture and earthy flavor.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil: Olive oil helps to crisp the potatoes while adding a rich taste.
• 4 tablespoons butter: The butter adds a luxurious flavor and helps achieve that golden-brown finish.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic gives an aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: These basic seasonings are essential to bring out the flavors of the potatoes.
• Fresh herbs (e.g., rosemary or thyme) for garnish: Fresh herbs add a pop of color and freshness when serving.

Directions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is crucial for achieving that golden brown color and crispy texture.

2. Boil the Potatoes: Place the fingerling potatoes in a large pot filled with salted water. Bring it to a boil and cook the potatoes until they become fork-tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes.

3. Drain and Cool: Once cooked, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. This step is essential, as it makes handling the warm potatoes easier and helps prevent burns.

4. Smash the Potatoes: On a baking sheet, take each potato and gently smash it with the bottom of a glass or fork. Aim for flattening them just enough to create flat surfaces that will become crispy when baked.

5. Prepare Garlic Butter: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Stir it until fragrant, which shouldn’t take long—about 1-2 minutes.

6. Season the Potatoes: Pour the melted garlic butter over the smashed potatoes. Then, drizzle the olive oil over them and sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. Make sure all the potatoes are coated evenly.

7. Bake the Potatoes: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the potatoes for 20-25 minutes. You are looking for a crispy, golden finish. Keep an eye on them, as ovens can vary.

8. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, take the potatoes out of the oven and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve hot and enjoy the delightful crunch!

How to Serve Baked Smashed Fingerling Potatoes

These potatoes make a fantastic side dish and can complement many main courses. Here are some serving suggestions:

1. Alongside Meats: Serve these potatoes with grilled chicken, steak, or lamb. Their crispy texture offers a great contrast to the tenderness of the meat.

2. Vegetarian Pairings: They are also a great match for roasted vegetables or a hearty salad.

3. Dips: Consider serving them with dips like sour cream, garlic aioli, or spicy mayo for an added burst of flavor.

4. Garnish Ideas: Try adding a sprinkle of cheese, such as Parmesan or feta, just before serving for an additional layer of taste.

5. Breakfast Option: Believe it or not, these smashed potatoes can even serve as a unique breakfast side. Pair them with your eggs and bacon for a hearty meal.

How to Store Baked Smashed Fingerling Potatoes

If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), storing them properly is key to maintaining their texture and flavors.

1. Cool Down: Allow the potatoes to cool to room temperature.

2. Airtight Container: Transfer the cooled potatoes to an airtight container. This will help preserve moisture and prevent them from drying out in the fridge.

3. Refrigerate: Store the container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days.

4. Reheating: When you’re ready to eat them again, reheat the potatoes in the oven to restore their crispiness. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes, checking frequently.

Tips to Make Baked Smashed Fingerling Potatoes

Creating the perfect Baked Smashed Fingerling Potatoes can be enhanced with a few helpful tips:

1. Select Quality Potatoes: Look for firm, smooth fingerling potatoes without blemishes. Organic potatoes can also be a good choice for better flavor.

2. Don’t Overcrowd: When smashing and baking the potatoes, make sure to give them enough space on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of baking, resulting in soggy potatoes.

3. Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize the seasoning. Adding spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, or even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese can create different flavor profiles.

4. Fresh Herbs: If you can’t find fresh herbs, dried herbs can also work; however, fresh will always provide a brighter flavor. Add fresh herbs just before serving to maintain their vibrant color and taste.

5. Smashing Technique: When smashing the potatoes, be gentle but firm. You want them to flatten out without turning into mush, so avoid using excessive force.

6. Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the potatoes while they’re in the oven. Some might crisp up faster than others, depending on their size and how well they were smashed.

Variation

While the classic recipe for Baked Smashed Fingerling Potatoes is always a hit, you can easily change it up to suit different tastes:

1. Cheesy Version: Consider adding shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) on top of the potatoes just a few minutes before they finish baking. This will create an equally crispy but cheesy layer.

2. Spicy Garlic Potatoes: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a spicy kick. This adds a great depth of flavor, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

3. Balsamic Glaze: Drizzling a bit of balsamic vinegar or glaze over the potatoes just before serving can add a tangy sweetness that complements the starchy flavor of the potatoes.

4. Herb Butter: Mix a variety of fresh herbs into the butter for extra flavor. Basil, parsley, and chives work particularly well in this recipe.

5. Different Potatoes: If fingerling potatoes aren’t available, try using baby Yukon golds or red potatoes for a different flavor and texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use larger potatoes instead of fingerling?

Yes, you can use larger potatoes. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust both the cooking time and the smashing process, as larger potatoes can take longer to become fork-tender.

2. Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prepare the smashed potatoes ahead of time. Simply boil and smash them, then store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy, season and bake them for a quick side dish.

3. Can I freeze Baked Smashed Fingerling Potatoes?

It’s not recommended to freeze baked smashed potatoes, as they can lose their texture upon freezing and reheating. However, you can freeze the boiled and smashed potatoes before baking, then bake directly from the freezer, adding a bit more time to the cooking process.

4. What can I serve with Baked Smashed Fingerling Potatoes?

These potatoes are very versatile and can be served with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a side dish in a vegetarian meal. They also pair well with dips or sauces such as ranch dressing or a garlic sauce.

5. Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?

No, it is not necessary to peel the fingerling potatoes. The skin adds extra nutrients and a nice texture to the dish. However, if you prefer peeled potatoes, you can certainly peel them before cooking.

Baked Smashed Fingerling Potatoes are a delightful addition to any mealtime, offering savory flavors and a pleasing crunch. Whether as a side for a festive dinner or a casual weeknight meal, these potatoes are sure to become a household favorite. Enjoy the process of creating this dish, and relish the delicious results!

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