Best Cheesy Smashed Potatoes : That Are Crispy, Gooey, and Addictive

Pulling a tray from the oven filled with golden, crispy smashed potatoes — each one crackled on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and crowned with bubbling, gooey cheese that stretches with every bite. It’s rustic comfort food at its finest — simple, satisfying, and endlessly crave-worthy.

This dish draws inspiration from classic home cooking, particularly popular in American and Australian kitchens, where humble potatoes are transformed into something far more indulgent with just a few clever tweaks. Smashed potatoes are the rebellious cousin of mashed and roasted varieties, bringing both the crisp edges of a roast and the soft center of a mash — all in one addictive bite.

I remember making these for the first time during a weekend dinner experiment, looking for a way to jazz up plain potatoes. A quick boil, a satisfying smash, and a generous sprinkle of cheese later — and I was hooked. Since then, they’ve become a go-to favorite for everything from casual weeknights to cozy gatherings.

This version stands out not just for its texture and flavor, but also for its flexibility. They’re baked, not fried, can be made gluten-free, vegetarian, or even dairy-free with a few easy swaps — comfort food that fits into real life.

Best Cheesy Smashed Potatoes

Recipe by BY ALYSSACourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Calories

~250 kcal per serving

kcal

Crispy, golden smashed potatoes topped with melted cheese and savory seasonings—an irresistible side dish for any meal.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds baby potatoes (red or yellow)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheeses)

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

• Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor

Directions

• Boil the Potatoes
  Place the baby potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and let them cool slightly.
• Preheat Oven
  Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
• Smash the Potatoes
  Transfer the cooked potatoes to the baking sheet. Use the bottom of a glass or potato masher to gently press and flatten each potato to about ½ inch thick.
• Season and Oil
  Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil and melted butter. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
• Bake Until Crispy
  Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and crispy around the edges.
• Add Cheese
  Remove from the oven, sprinkle cheddar cheese (and optional Parmesan) over the top of each potato. Return to the oven for 5 more minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Garnish and Serve
  Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and serve warm.

Ingredients for the Ultimate Cheesy Smashed Potatoes

Creating crispy, cheesy smashed potatoes starts with a handful of simple, high-quality ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need to build this comforting, flavor-packed side dish — plus some smart swaps to fit your dietary needs.

Essential Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

• 1½ to 2 lbs baby potatoes
  Look for Yukon Gold or red potatoes — their creamy interiors and thin skins make them ideal for smashing and crisping.
• 2–3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
  Adds flavor and helps the edges crisp beautifully in the oven.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced or ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  Fresh garlic gives a punchy flavor, while powder offers a more mellow, even distribution.
• 1 to 1½ cups shredded cheese
  Use a mix like cheddar and mozzarella for the best combination of melt, flavor, and golden bubbly tops.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  Don’t be shy — potatoes love seasoning.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs
  Try parsley, chives, or thyme for brightness and aroma.

Optional Toppings

• Sour cream or Greek yogurt – for creaminess
• Crispy bacon bits – for crunch and salty richness
• Sliced green onions – for a fresh bite

Smart Ingredient Swaps

• Vegan: Use plant-based cheese and vegan butter or olive oil.
• Dairy-Free: Swap cheese for a sprinkle of nutritional yeast and use olive oil.
• Low-Fat: Choose reduced-fat cheese or use less cheese, focusing on herbs and garlic for bold flavor.

Tips for Best Results

• Choose small, evenly sized potatoes for even cooking and easier smashing.
• For cheese, opt for freshly shredded over pre-packaged for better melt and flavor.
• Want extra texture? Use a sharp cheddar for tang or add a touch of Parmesan for a crisp, salty edge.

These ingredients come together for a side dish that’s crispy, cheesy, and completely customizable.

How to Make Cheesy Smashed Potatoes: Crispy, Golden, and Irresistible

Making cheesy smashed potatoes is a sensory experience — the crack of crispy edges, the aroma of garlic and herbs wafting through your kitchen, and the bubbling cheese that promises instant comfort. Follow these simple, step-by-step instructions to create the perfect side dish every time.

1. Boil the Potatoes

Start by placing 1½ to 2 lbs of baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes in a large pot. Cover with cold, salted water and bring to a boil. Simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender — you want them soft enough to smash, but not falling apart.

As they cook, you’ll start smelling that earthy, buttery scent that signals comfort food in the making.

2. Drain and Prepare

Drain the potatoes well, then let them sit for 5 minutes to release steam — this dries the skin for better crisping later. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil, and space the potatoes out evenly — no crowding!

3. Smash with Care

Use the bottom of a glass, jar, or sturdy fork to gently press down on each potato until flattened but still intact. You’ll hear the satisfying crack of the skin giving way, exposing the fluffy interior. That’s where the magic happens — crisp outside, soft inside.

4. Season and Roast

Brush each smashed potato with olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle generously with minced garlic or garlic powder, salt, pepper, and a pinch of thyme or chopped chives.

Place in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) and roast for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are deeply golden and crispy. You’ll hear them sizzling as the skins blister and the centers turn fluffy and rich.

Pro Tip: For the crispiest result, don’t overcrowd the pan and use convection if your oven allows.

5. Add the Cheese

Once the potatoes are crispy, remove the tray and sprinkle each one with your favorite shredded cheese — cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix. Return to the oven for 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and slightly golden.

For an extra cheesy crust, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely so the cheese doesn’t burn. The aroma is heavenly — rich, savory, and deeply satisfying.

Optional Toppings & Serving

Top with sour cream, green onions, or bacon bits just before serving for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Make Ahead & Reheating Tips

You can boil and smash the potatoes ahead of time — just refrigerate them on the baking tray (covered) for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, brush with oil, roast, and add cheese as directed.

Leftovers? Reheat in a hot oven for 10 minutes at 400°F (200°C) to revive their crispy edges — even better than microwaving.

With their crispy bottoms, fluffy centers, and cheesy tops, these smashed potatoes are destined to steal the spotlight at any meal.

Tips & Tasty Variations: Taking Cheesy Smashed Potatoes to the Next Level

Cheesy smashed potatoes are already a show-stealer, but with a few creative additions and serving ideas, they can become a standout feature at any table — from weeknight dinners to holiday spreads. Here’s how to customize, elevate, and serve them in style.

Flavor Boosters to Try

• Truffle Oil Drizzle: For a gourmet flair, add a light drizzle of truffle oil just before serving. It adds a rich, earthy aroma that pairs beautifully with the crispy edges and melted cheese.
• Crushed Red Pepper or Smoked Paprika: Sprinkle before roasting for a kick of heat or smoky depth. Perfect if you like your comfort food with a little attitude.
• Roasted Garlic Paste: Mash roasted garlic into a soft paste and spread over each potato before adding cheese. It delivers sweet, mellow richness that takes the flavor to another level.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Side Dish: These pair perfectly with steak, roast chicken, grilled salmon, or as a hearty partner to a vegetarian main like lentil stew or stuffed peppers.
• Party Appetizer: Serve smaller smashed potatoes on a platter with a variety of dipping sauces like sour cream and chive, spicy aioli, or herbed yogurt.

Shape & Size Variations

• Larger Potatoes: Want wedges or more surface area? Use medium Yukon or russet potatoes. After boiling and smashing, cut them in halves or quarters for rustic, cheesy wedges.
• Mini Potato Bites: Use baby potatoes for bite-sized versions — perfect for buffets or appetizers.

Keep Them Warm

Hosting a party or dinner? Keep your cheesy smashed potatoes warm in the oven at 200°F (90°C) on a baking tray covered loosely with foil. This keeps the texture crisp without drying them out.

Creative Mix-Ins

• Caramelized Onions: Add on top before cheese for a sweet, savory layer.
• Jalapeños: For spice lovers, add thin slices or pickled jalapeños before baking.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Chop finely and sprinkle for a tangy, rich bite that pairs beautifully with cheese and herbs.

With these variations, cheesy smashed potatoes can go from simple comfort to a gourmet, crowd-pleasing creation. Let your imagination — and appetite — lead the way.

Nutritional Information: Cheesy Smashed Potatoes — Comfort With a Nutritional Kick

Cheesy smashed potatoes are more than just comfort food — they can also offer valuable nutrients, especially when made at home with fresh, whole ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’re getting in every satisfying serving.

Average Nutrition Per Serving (1 of 4 servings)

Note: Values depend on potato size, cheese amount, and type of fat used.

Nutritional Highlights

• Potatoes: Often underestimated, potatoes are rich in potassium (more than a banana!), vitamin C, and fiber, especially when the skins are left on. They provide slow-digesting carbs that help keep you full.
• Cheese: A great source of calcium and protein, cheese also adds a dose of flavor and richness. When enjoyed in moderation, it supports bone health and satiety.

Version Comparison Table

Tips for Lightening the Dish (Without Losing Flavor)

• Use olive oil instead of butter: It’s heart-healthy and keeps the potatoes crisp.
• Opt for reduced-fat cheese or use just a sprinkle of a sharp variety like aged cheddar — a little goes a long way.
• Try nutritional yeast for a cheesy, dairy-free option that adds protein and B vitamins.
• Increase herbs and garlic to boost flavor without relying solely on fat or salt.

By making smart choices and sticking to quality ingredients, you can enjoy cheesy smashed potatoes that are as nourishing as they are delicious — a side dish that truly satisfies, inside and out.

Common Mistakes & Easy Fixes for Perfect Cheesy Smashed Potatoes

Even with a simple dish like cheesy smashed potatoes, small missteps can make the difference between crispy, golden perfection and a disappointing tray of soggy or broken spuds. Here are the most common pitfalls — and how to avoid them for the best results every time.

1. Potatoes Falling Apart When Smashed

Why it happens: The potatoes were overboiled and became too soft.
Fix: Boil until just fork-tender, not mushy. You should be able to insert a fork easily, but the potato should still hold its shape when pressed. Letting them steam dry after draining also helps reduce excess moisture.

2. Not Getting Crispy Enough

Why it happens: Low oven temperature, overcrowded tray, or too little oil.
Fix: Roast at 425°F (220°C) and ensure there’s enough space between potatoes for heat circulation. Use olive oil or butter generously, brushing both the tops and any exposed edges for maximum crispiness.

3. Cheese Burns or Hardens

Why it happens: Adding cheese too early in the roasting process.
Fix: Add the shredded cheese only during the final 5–7 minutes of baking. If you want a bubbly crust, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end — but watch closely to avoid burning.

4. Potatoes Sticking to the Tray

Why it happens: Baking directly on the sheet without a non-stick barrier.
Fix: Line your tray with parchment paper or foil with a light coating of non-stick spray. This helps the smashed potatoes lift easily and keeps those crispy edges intact.

5. Uneven or Messy Smash

Why it happens: Using the wrong tool or uneven pressure.
Fix: Use a flat-bottomed glass, mug, or jar and press down gently but evenly. The goal is to flatten, not crush — consistent pressure ensures even cooking and a beautiful, rustic appearance.

Avoid these common errors and you’ll enjoy cheesy smashed potatoes that are crispy, golden, and utterly addictive — every single time.

FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Cheesy Smashed Potatoes

Cheesy smashed potatoes are easy to love — and even easier to customize and prepare ahead. Here are the answers to your most frequently asked questions to help you make this dish like a pro.

Can I Make Them Ahead of Time?

Yes! For a head start, parboil the potatoes, let them cool, and store them in the refrigerator (covered) for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply smash, season, and roast. This makes them perfect for meal prepping or entertaining.

What Cheese Melts Best for Topping?

For that perfectly gooey, golden top, use:

• Cheddar – Melts smoothly and adds sharp flavor.
• Gruyère – Rich, nutty, and great for a gourmet touch.
• Mozzarella – For stretchy melt and mild flavor.
  Try a blend of these cheeses for best results — a mix of flavor and texture.

Can I Air-Fry Smashed Potatoes?

Absolutely! After smashing and brushing with oil, air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes until crispy, then add cheese and air fry for another 2–3 minutes. It’s a faster, energy-efficient option with excellent results.

What Are the Best Potatoes for Smashed Potatoes?

Stick with baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Their small size and waxy texture make them ideal — they hold their shape well after boiling and crisp beautifully in the oven or air fryer.

How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat:

• In the oven: 400°F for 10 minutes
• In the air fryer: 375°F for 5–7 minutes

Avoid the microwave — it softens the crispy texture.

With these handy tips, you’ll be ready to make — and remake — cheesy smashed potatoes any time you crave a comforting, crispy bite!

Cheesy Smashed Potatoes: Comfort, Crunch, and Endless Creativity

Few dishes strike the perfect balance between crispy, gooey, and comforting quite like cheesy smashed potatoes. With their golden edges, fluffy centers, and melted cheese topping, they’re everything you want in a side dish — hearty, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.

What makes this recipe truly special is how easy and rewarding it is to make. Whether you’re cooking for family, prepping for a party, or just treating yourself, the process is simple, the ingredients are flexible, and the results are always crowd-pleasers.

Don’t be afraid to make this dish your own — experiment with different cheeses, herbs, or bold toppings like jalapeños or truffle oil. Every batch offers a new chance to get creative and make something uniquely yours.

We’d love to see what you come up with! Share your photos, favorite twists, or feedback in the comments, and tag us on social media with your cheesiest creations.

Looking for more cozy, craveable side dishes? Check out these similar recipes:

• The Hallmark Chipotle Pasta
• The Greatest Baked Cottage Cheese Eggs

Here’s to your next crispy, melty, flavor-packed potato masterpiece — happy cooking!