Crispy Smashed Potato Salad
Crispy Smashed Potato Salad is a easy American recipe that serves 6. 437 calories per serving. Recipe by Officially Gluten Free on YouTube.
Prep: 34 min | Cook: 55 min | Total: 1 hr 44 min
Cost: $6.37 total, $1.06 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 lb Baby Red Potatoes (washed, whole baby red potatoes)
- 4 tbsp Olive Oil (extra virgin recommended)
- 1 tsp Salt (kosher or sea salt, to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground, to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Garlic Powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- 0.33 cup Green Onions (white and green parts, finely chopped)
- 0.25 cup Radishes (finely chopped)
- 0.66 cup Mayonnaise (regular or gluten‑free, can increase for extra creaminess)
- 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard (adds tang, can substitute yellow mustard)
- 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
Boil Potatoes
Place the 2 lb of baby red potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 25 minutes until fork‑tender.
Time: PT25M
Prep Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and drizzle a thin layer of olive oil, spreading it evenly.
Time: PT3M
Smash Potatoes
Drain the boiled potatoes, let steam off for a minute, then arrange them on the prepared sheet. Using the bottom of a jar or a sturdy cup, press each potato until flattened but still intact.
Time: PT5M
First Oil & Seasoning
Drizzle the smashed potatoes with 2 tbsp olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Time: PT2M
First Bake
Place the sheet in a pre‑heated oven at 450°F and bake for 15 minutes until the edges start to turn golden.
Time: PT15M
Temperature: 450°F
Flip & Second Seasoning
Remove the sheet, flip each potato, drizzle another 2 tbsp olive oil, sprinkle ½ tsp garlic powder, and add a little more salt and pepper.
Time: PT3M
Second Bake
Return the potatoes to the oven and bake another 15 minutes until crisp and deep golden brown.
Time: PT15M
Temperature: 450°F
Cool & Chop Potatoes
Allow the potatoes to cool for a few minutes, then transfer to a cutting board and chop into bite‑size pieces.
Time: PT5M
Chop Vegetables
Finely chop 1/3 cup green onions and 1/4 cup radishes while the potatoes cool.
Time: PT4M
Mix Dressing & Combine
In a large mixing bowl combine the chopped potatoes, green onions, radishes, 2/3 cup mayonnaise, 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Time: PT5M
Garnish & Serve
Transfer the salad to a serving bowl, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, and serve at room temperature.
Time: PT2M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 437
- Protein
- 5 g
- Carbohydrates
- 45 g
- Fat
- 25 g
- Fiber
- 4 g
Dietary info: Gluten‑Free, Vegetarian
Allergens: Eggs (in mayonnaise), Mustard
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Baby Red Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes, red potatoes
- Instead of Olive Oil: avocado oil, grapeseed oil
- Instead of Salt: any salt
- Instead of Black Pepper: white pepper
- Instead of Garlic Powder: 1/2 fresh garlic clove, minced
- Instead of Green Onions: chives, scallions
- Instead of Radishes: turnips, cucumber
- Instead of Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt, vegan mayo
- Instead of Dijon Mustard: stone‑ground mustard, yellow mustard
- Instead of Fresh Parsley: cilantro
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot
- Colander
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Jar or Cup (for smashing)
- Mixing Bowl
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
- Serving Bowl
- Spatula or Spoon
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Boil potatoes until fork‑tender (Step 1)
- Properly smash potatoes without over‑flattening (Step 3)
- First bake to develop initial crust (Step 5)
- Second bake for ultimate crispness (Step 7)
- Combine dressing thoroughly to coat all pieces (Step 10)
Chef Tips from the Video
- Line the baking sheet with parchment for easy release and cleanup.
- A heavy-bottomed sheet conducts heat better, giving a more uniform crisp.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the second seasoning.
Troubleshooting
Potatoes are soggy after baking.
Make sure the baking sheet is not crowded; bake at 450°F for the full time and consider an extra 5‑10 minutes if needed.
Potatoes fall apart when flipping.
Do not over‑smash; keep a thickness of about ½‑inch. Use a wide spatula to support each piece while turning.
Salad looks watery.
Drain the boiled potatoes well and let them cool on a rack before chopping. Pat the chopped pieces with a paper towel if excess moisture remains.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture will become soggy after thawing.
Room temperature: Can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours before serving.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Boil and smash the potatoes up to a day ahead; keep them refrigerated and re‑bake briefly before mixing.
- Prepare the mayo‑mustard dressing in advance and store in the fridge; combine with potatoes just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Crispy Smashed Potato Salad in American cuisine?
Crispy smashed potato salads blend the classic comfort of traditional American potato salad with the modern trend of oven‑roasted, crunchy potatoes. While potato salad dates back to 19th‑century American picnics, the smashed‑and‑crisp technique reflects contemporary health‑conscious cooking that emphasizes texture without deep‑frying.
What are the traditional regional variations of potato salad in the United States?
In the Midwest, potato salad often features a mustard‑based dressing and celery; the South prefers a sweeter, mayo‑heavy version with pickles; the Pacific Northwest adds fresh herbs like dill. This crispy smashed version is a newer twist that can be adapted with regional herbs or spices.
How is Crispy Smashed Potato Salad traditionally served in American gatherings?
It is typically served chilled or at room temperature alongside barbecued meats, grilled vegetables, or as part of a potluck spread. A garnish of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color before presentation on a buffet table.
What occasions or celebrations is Crispy Smashed Potato Salad traditionally associated with in American culture?
It is popular at summer barbecues, Fourth of July picnics, family reunions, and casual dinner parties where a hearty, gluten‑free side is appreciated.
What makes Crispy Smashed Potato Salad special or unique in American cuisine?
The dish combines the creamy comfort of classic potato salad with the satisfying crunch of oven‑roasted smashed potatoes, offering a textural contrast that sets it apart from the traditional boiled‑only versions.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Crispy Smashed Potato Salad?
Common errors include over‑smashing the potatoes, which leads to soggy pieces; overcrowding the baking sheet, which prevents crisping; and under‑seasoning the dressing, resulting in a bland salad. Follow the timing and spacing guidelines for best results.
Why does this Crispy Smashed Potato Salad recipe use two separate 15‑minute bakes instead of a single longer bake?
The first bake sets a crust on the top side of each smashed potato. Flipping and baking a second time ensures both sides become evenly golden and crunchy, creating the signature crisp texture while keeping the interior fluffy.
Can I make Crispy Smashed Potato Salad ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes. Boil, smash, and bake the potatoes up to a day ahead; keep them refrigerated in an airtight container. Prepare the mayo‑mustard dressing separately. Combine just before serving to maintain crispness, and store the finished salad in the fridge for up to 3 days.
What texture and appearance should I look for when making Crispy Smashed Potato Salad?
The potatoes should have a deep golden‑brown, crunchy exterior with a soft, fluffy interior. After mixing, the salad should look creamy with evenly coated pieces and specks of green onion and radish for color contrast.
How do I know when the Crispy Smashed Potato Salad is done cooking?
The potatoes are done when the edges are crisp and browned on both sides after the second 15‑minute bake, and a fork slides easily into the interior. The salad is ready when the dressing coats all pieces and the flavor is balanced.
What does the YouTube channel Officially Gluten Free specialize in?
The YouTube channel Officially Gluten Free focuses on creating delicious, gluten‑free recipes for everyday meals, offering clear step‑by‑step tutorials, ingredient substitutions, and tips for maintaining flavor while avoiding gluten.
How does the YouTube channel Officially Gluten Free's approach to American side dishes differ from other cooking channels?
Officially Gluten Free emphasizes gluten‑free adaptations without sacrificing texture, often using alternative cooking methods like oven‑roasting to replace traditional fried techniques, and provides detailed explanations of why each substitution works.
Last updated: September 1, 2026
