Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Crispy Smashed Potatoes is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 268 calories per serving. Recipe by More Nick on YouTube.
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 1 hr 10 min | Total: 1 hr 40 min
Cost: $2.37 total, $0.59 per serving
Ingredients
- 8 pcs Yukon Gold Potatoes (medium size, scrubbed clean)
- 1 tablespoon Salt (for boiling water)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (for seasoning after smash)
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (melted)
Instructions
Boil Potatoes
Place the scrubbed Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, add 1 tablespoon salt, and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook for about 30 minutes, or until a fork slides in easily.
Time: PT30M
Slice and Smash
Drain the potatoes and let them cool for a few minutes. Transfer to a lined baking sheet, slice each potato about 1/4 inch deep across the middle, then press down with a fork (or the bottom of a glass) until the potato flattens but stays together. Drizzle the melted butter over the smashed potatoes and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.
Time: PT10M
Roast Until Crispy
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Roast the seasoned smashed potatoes for about 40 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the edges are golden‑brown and slightly charred.
Time: PT40M
Temperature: 400°F
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 268
- Protein
- 5 g
- Carbohydrates
- 45 g
- Fat
- 10 g
- Fiber
- 3 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Allergens: Dairy (butter)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Yukon Gold Potatoes: Red potatoes, Russet potatoes
- Instead of Salt: Kosher salt, Sea salt
- Instead of Salt: Kosher salt, Sea salt
- Instead of Black Pepper: White pepper, Paprika
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: Olive oil, Melted ghee
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot
- Colander
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper (optional)
- Sharp Knife
- Fork or Potato Masher
- Oven
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Boil potatoes until fork‑tender (30 minutes).
- Slice and smash potatoes evenly to create a large surface area.
- Roast at 400°F until edges are charred (about 40 minutes).
Chef Tips from the Video
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of garlic powder or fresh rosemary before roasting.
- Use a glass bottle bottom for a uniform smash if you don’t have a sturdy fork.
Troubleshooting
Potatoes are soggy after roasting.
Make sure the potatoes are fully dried after boiling and use a hot, pre‑heated oven. Increase roasting time by 5‑10 minutes for extra crispness.
Potatoes stick to the baking sheet.
Line the sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil the surface before placing the smashed potatoes.
Butter burns and turns brown.
Drizzle butter after the potatoes have been smashed and before they go into the oven; keep oven temperature at 400°F and monitor the last few minutes.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat in a 375°F oven to regain crispness.
Freezer: Not recommended – freezing changes the texture of potatoes.
Room temperature: Serve immediately; do not leave out more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Boil and smash the potatoes a few hours ahead; keep them covered in the fridge and roast when ready.
- Melted butter can be prepared in advance and stored warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of crispy smashed potatoes in American cuisine?
Crispy smashed potatoes are a modern twist on classic American comfort food. They grew popular on social media as a quick, indulgent side that combines the softness of boiled potatoes with the crunch of roasted potatoes, reflecting the American love for both simplicity and bold textures.
How does the traditional American preparation of smashed potatoes differ from the viral version shown by YouTube channel More Nick?
Traditional smashed potatoes often use olive oil and herbs, while More Nick’s viral version emphasizes melted butter and a high‑heat 400°F roast for extra char. The channel’s method also stresses a generous butter drizzle, making the dish richer.
What occasions or celebrations are crispy smashed potatoes traditionally served at in the United States?
They are commonly served at casual gatherings, barbecues, and game‑day parties because they are easy to make in large batches and pair well with burgers, fried chicken, or grilled meats.
What other American side dishes pair well with crispy smashed potatoes from More Nick’s recipe?
They pair beautifully with coleslaw, baked beans, grilled corn on the cob, or a simple green salad with vinaigrette, creating a balanced plate of textures and flavors.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for crispy smashed potatoes versus acceptable substitutes?
The authentic ingredients are Yukon Gold potatoes, salt, black pepper, and unsalted butter. Acceptable substitutes include red potatoes for a firmer bite, olive oil or melted ghee instead of butter, and kosher salt in place of regular table salt.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making crispy smashed potatoes from More Nick’s recipe?
Common mistakes include under‑cooking the potatoes before smashing, which leads to a mushy texture, and overcrowding the baking sheet, which prevents the edges from crisping. Also, skipping the melted butter will result in a less flavorful, dry finish.
Why does More Nick’s recipe use melted butter instead of olive oil for the crispy smashed potatoes?
Melted butter adds a rich, nutty flavor and helps the potatoes develop a deep golden crust during roasting, whereas olive oil would give a lighter taste and slightly less crispness at the high oven temperature.
Can I make crispy smashed potatoes ahead of time and how should I store them?
Yes, you can boil and smash the potatoes ahead, keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours, then finish by roasting in a pre‑heated oven. Store the butter‑drizzled potatoes in an airtight container and reheat at 375°F to restore crispness.
What does the YouTube channel More Nick specialize in?
The YouTube channel More Nick specializes in quick, viral‑style comfort food recipes that are easy for home cooks, focusing on simple techniques, minimal ingredients, and bold flavors.
How does the YouTube channel More Nick’s approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?
More Nick emphasizes ultra‑simple, one‑pan or minimal‑equipment methods and often highlights trending, share‑worthy dishes like the viral crispy smashed potatoes, whereas many other channels may focus on more elaborate or traditional techniques.
Last updated: September 1, 2026
