Are you looking for a quick dinner idea that's both healthy and incredibly delicious? Then look no further! These crispy smashed potatoes, cooked to perfection in a cast iron skillet, are the perfect side dish – or even a satisfying main course – for any occasion. This easy recipe requires minimal ingredients and delivers maximum flavor, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or impressive weekend meals. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs small red potatoes, scrubbed clean
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and scrub the small red potatoes thoroughly. You don’t need to peel them; the skins add great texture and flavor. Pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel – this is crucial for achieving extra crispy potatoes.
Step 2: Smash & Season: Place the potatoes on a cutting board. Using the bottom of a glass or a potato masher, gently smash each potato until slightly flattened. Be careful not to completely crush them. In a large bowl, toss the smashed potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. If using, add the fresh rosemary now.
Step 3: Cast Iron Magic: Heat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes. Carefully transfer the seasoned potatoes to the hot skillet, ensuring they’re spread in a single layer, without overcrowding.
Step 4: Roast to Perfection: Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Flip them halfway through for even cooking. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the potatoes cool slightly before serving. These crispy smashed potatoes are delicious as a side dish with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or fish. They also make a fantastic vegetarian main course, especially when paired with a fresh salad.
Cooking Tips for Extra Crispy Potatoes:
- Dry is Key: Ensure your potatoes are completely dry before oiling and seasoning. Excess moisture will prevent them from crisping up properly.
- Don't Overcrowd: Give the potatoes enough space in the skillet to allow for even browning and crisping. If necessary, cook them in batches.
- High Heat: A hot skillet is essential for achieving that perfect crispy exterior.
- Cast Iron Advantage: Cast iron skillets distribute heat evenly and retain heat well, resulting in perfectly cooked potatoes.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Smashed Potatoes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Garlic Lovers: Increase the garlic powder to 1 ½ teaspoons or add some minced fresh garlic to the mix.
- Herb Experimentation: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme, oregano, or parsley.
- Cheese Please: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes during the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 8-12g
- Protein: 3-4g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fiber: 3-4g
These easy and healthy smashed potatoes are sure to become a family favorite. The combination of crispy exterior and fluffy interior, enhanced by simple yet flavorful seasonings, makes them a truly delicious addition to any meal. Enjoy!