Crispy Loaded Smashed Potatoes (gluten-free)

Crispy Loaded Smashed Potatoes!! Wow wow these loaded Smashed Potatoes hit the spot in every way. Crispy potatoes topped with turkey bacon, cheese and chives. Such a great appetizer or side dish to make.

There’s something magical about transforming simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing dish, and these loaded smashed potatoes are no exception! Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and topped with all the fixings – this recipe takes basic yellow potatoes to a whole new level. Whether you’re cooking up a weeknight dinner or prepping for a gathering, these loaded smashed potatoes are guaranteed to steal the show.

Why We Love Loaded Smashed Potatoes:

Loaded smashed potatoes are everything you crave in a savory side dish. They’re crispy, cheesy, and just the right amount of indulgent without being too heavy. Think of them as a hybrid between classic mashed potatoes and loaded potato skins. Plus, this recipe is incredibly easy to make with minimal ingredients, many of which you probably already have on hand.

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process, along with some helpful tips to make these smashed potatoes perfect every time.

What ingredients you need to make these Loaded Smashed Potatoes: 

• Yellow potatoes – Yellow potatoes are slightly waxy and have a creamy, buttery texture that’s perfect for smashing. 
• Olive oil – Olive oil helps the potatoes become golden and crispy when roasted in the oven.
• Shredded cheddar cheese – Cheddar cheese brings a creamy, slightly tangy flavor to the loaded potatoes. As it melts over the crispy potatoes, it creates a savory topping that balances perfectly with the other ingredients. 
• Turkey bacon – Turkey bacon is a leaner alternative to traditional bacon, adding a smoky, savory flavor and crunchy texture to the dish without as much fat. 
• Fresh chives – Chives add a mild onion-like flavor that’s fresh and fragrant. 
• For serving: greek yogurt or sour cream for dipping

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat Your Oven
   Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Prepare the Potatoes
   Place your potatoes in a large pot or Dutch oven and cover them with water. Make sure there’s about an inch of water above the potatoes to allow them to cook evenly. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for around 10-15 minutes or until the potatoes are just tender. You want them to be soft enough to smash but still hold their shape. Drain the water and let the potatoes cool slightly.

3. Smash the Potatoes
   Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, arrange them on the prepared baking sheet with some space between each one. Using a flat dry measuring cup or glass, gently press down on each potato to flatten it. The goal here is to smash them into a rough disc shape without breaking them apart.

4. Season and Roast
   Brush each smashed potato with olive oil and season generously with sea salt and black pepper. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes turn golden brown and the edges are nice and crispy. If you notice they’re drying out, you can add a little more oil.

5. Add the Toppings
   Remove the potatoes from the oven and sprinkle the diced turkey bacon and shredded cheddar cheese over each one. Return them to the oven for another 3-5 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Finish with Fresh Chives
   Once the cheese is melted, take the potatoes out of the oven and sprinkle with fresh chopped chives. Serve warm with a side of Greek yogurt or sour cream for dipping.

Tips for Perfect Loaded Smashed Potatoes:

1. Choose the Right Potatoes
   Yellow potatoes are ideal for this recipe because they’re creamy and hold their shape well when smashed. If you only have red or russet potatoes, they’ll also work, but the texture might vary slightly.

2. Cook the Potatoes Just Right
   Be careful not to overcook the potatoes during the boiling step. You want them tender enough to smash, but not so soft that they fall apart. Around 10-15 minutes of simmering should be enough, depending on the size of your potatoes.

3. Get Creative with Toppings
   Feel free to customize the toppings to suit your taste! Swap out cheddar for mozzarella, add a sprinkle of Parmesan, or even experiment with spices like smoked paprika for a bit of extra flavor. Crumbled veggie bacon or caramelized onions can also make for a delicious twist.

4. Serve Fresh from the Oven
   Loaded smashed potatoes are best served fresh when they’re still warm and crispy. If you’re making them for a gathering, you can prepare everything in advance up to the topping stage and keep them warm in the oven until ready to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the potatoes and smash them on the baking sheet, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to cook, follow the instructions from the roasting step.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
If you happen to have leftovers, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This will help bring back the crispiness, unlike microwaving, which can make them soggy.

Can I add other toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with other toppings like jalapeños, green onions, or even a drizzle of sriracha for a bit of spice.

Healthier Swaps and Variations:

1. Use Sweet Potatoes
   For a slightly sweeter, nutrient-rich option, swap out yellow potatoes for sweet potatoes. Follow the same instructions, but keep in mind that sweet potatoes might need a slightly shorter cooking time.

2. Swap Greek Yogurt for Sour Cream
   Greek yogurt makes a perfect substitute for sour cream in this recipe, adding a nice tangy flavor with more protein and less fat.

3. Make It Vegetarian
   If you’re not a fan of turkey bacon or prefer a vegetarian option, you can substitute with plant-based bacon or simply skip it altogether. The cheese and chives will still bring plenty of flavor.

Why Loaded Smashed Potatoes Are a Must-Make:

Loaded smashed potatoes combine the flavors of comfort food with the texture of crispy oven-roasted goodness. They’re versatile, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion. Serve them as a side dish, a game-day snack, or even as an appetizer for gatherings. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household.

Whether you’re making them for family or friends, these loaded smashed potatoes are sure to impress. The best part? You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to make them. In less than an hour, you’ll have a delicious dish ready to enjoy. So, grab those potatoes, preheat the oven, and get ready to make your new favorite side!

Happy cooking!

A few other delicious potato recipes to make:

2-ingredient Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Crispy Salt and Vinegar Smashed Potatoes

Smashed Sweet Potatoes

Crispy Parmesan Potatoes (oven-baked!)