Crispy Smashed Potatoes are a real work horse of the dinner plate–a partner that makes everyone around them shine brighter. These potatoes have the perfect texture after boiling, smashing, and roasting. Served on a bed of dill whipped goat cheese, these potatoes will have you dreaming of Spring in no time.
I’ve pretty much never met a potato recipe I didn’t like, and these Crispy Smashed Potatoes are no exception. With the first signs of Spring, I love preparing a meal that has lightness to it but also has a side that’s a little more filling and nourishing. These potatoes really do the trick. The texture here is perfect–crispy on the outside and buttery soft in the middle. So perfect as a side dish that makes everyone smile.
What I love about these potatoes, though, is that they’re served on a bed of whipped goat cheese. The goat cheese is so creamy and with a sprinkle of dill, it practically screams Spring dining. These potatoes are served warm on top of the goat cheese, making them elegant and restaurant-worthy at home.
I serve these crispy smashed potatoes alongside a delicious mustard salmon for my Bright Early Spring Dinner Menu. The fish and potatoes are a happy marriage. There’s herby dill in both, and the meal feels light but still fulfilling. For dessert, I’m exciting everyone’s taste buds with Honeyed Roast Grapefruit. Roasting concentrates the flavor of the grapefruit, and this is a perfect Early Spring palate cleanser that’s not too sweet.
Spring is right around the corner (whether you’re currently looking at snow or not!), so I’m ready to get in the mood with these lovely crispy smashed potatoes and soft goat cheese. These will be perfect for Spring brunches all season long!
Why You’ll Love these Crispy Smashed Potatoes
These Crispy Smashed Potatoes are the kind of workhorse side dish that pair beautifully with so many main dishes and always seem to make their partners shine brighter. On their own, they’re amazing as well! You’ll love them because they are:
- Crispy outside, creamy inside — the best texture combination. Melt in your mouth potatoes are always a yes.
- Elevated but easy — whipped goat cheese makes them dinner-party worthy. These are perfect for a dinner party because they can be served warm or room temperature;
- Make-ahead friendly — boil the potatoes in advance. This makes them dinner party appropriate as well.
- Perfect for spring — lemon and dill keep them light. The flavors of Spring!
Ingredients
Method
- Place potatoes in a large pot. Cover with cold water, salted, and bring to a boil. Cook until fork tender, 15-20 minutes. Drain potatoes and let them steam dry a few minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 425ºF. Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Transfer the potatoes to the prepared sheet. Using the bottom of a drinking glass, smash the potatoes individually. Flatten the potatoes, but leave them in tact. Drizzle olive oil on top of the smashed potatoes and season with salt and pepper.
- Roast for 25-35 minutes, flipping once. The potatoes should be browned and crispy.
- While the potatoes roast, make the whipped goat cheese. Combine goat cheese, yogurt, olive oil, a tablespoon of milk, and a pinch of salt. Add more milk if needed to get a consistency that is light, creamy, and spreadable.
- Spread the whipped goat cheese on a serving platter. Spoon the potatoes on top of the whipped goat cheese. Finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest, dill, and kosher salt. Enjoy!
Tips for Extra Crispy Potatoes
These potatoes are all about the texture. To get them perfect:
- Let the potatoes steam dry after boiling.
- Don’t crowd the pan — space helps crisping.
- Use enough olive oil as it is the key for golden edges.
- Roast at a high temperature (425°F works beautifully).
Variations
Make these potatoes your own! Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Add a light drizzle of honey for subtle sweetness.
- Swap dill for chives or parsley.
- Top with crispy shallots for added texture.
- Change out the goat cheese for feta for a different flavor.
What to Serve the Potatoes With
If you’d like to include these potatoes as part of my Bright Early Spring Dinner Party Menu, you can find that full menu here. It includes Spring Salmon with mustard and herbs and a lovely Honeyed Roast Grapefruit for dessert. These potatoes would also be terrific with my Rustic Chicken Sausage and White Bean Skillet Bake or as a beautiful accompaniment to my Chicken with Bacon, Shallots, and White Wine.
These crispy smashed potatoes will get you thinking Spring thoughts in no time!
