Description
These Crispy Brown Butter Sage Smashed Potatoes are a true textural masterpiece, featuring a fluffy interior and an irresistibly crispy exterior. Drenched in a nutty brown butter infused with crispy sage and thyme, this elegant and sophisticated side dish will steal the show at any meal. The unique two-step cooking process of roasting in apple cider and then smashing and roasting again at high heat makes them utterly addictive.
Ingredients
1 pound small to medium potatoes (yukon or russet potatoes)
2 cups apple cider
1 cup chicken broth or dry white wine
sea salt and black pepper
2–3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 stick (8 tablespoons) salted butter
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh sage leaves
2 tablespoon fresh chopped thyme
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
Tenderize the Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the potatoes in a casserole dish with a lid. Pour the apple cider and chicken broth over the potatoes. Cover and roast for about 45 minutes, until the potatoes are very soft.
Smash the Potatoes:
Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Carefully place the tender potatoes on a large baking sheet. Using the bottom of a glass or a potato masher, gently press down on each potato to “smash” it.
Roast for Crispy Perfection:
Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil. Arrange small slices of butter over each potato. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese, garlic powder, fresh sage leaves, and fresh thyme. Roast for 20-25 minutes, until deeply golden brown and incredibly crispy.
Finish and Serve:
As soon as the potatoes come out of the oven, spoon any of the herby, browned butter from the pan over the tops. Season with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately.
Notes
Boiling Method Shortcut:
If you’re short on time, you can boil the potatoes in salted water for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender instead of roasting them first. You’ll miss the flavor from the apple cider, but they will still be deliciously crispy.
Best Potatoes to Use:
Small Yukon Gold potatoes are an excellent choice due to their buttery flavor and creamy texture. Small red potatoes or any other waxy baby potato will also work well.
Make-Ahead Tip:
These potatoes are best served immediately for maximum crispiness. However, you can do the initial roast or boil ahead of time. Store the cooled, cooked potatoes in the refrigerator, then proceed with the smashing and final roasting step when you’re ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 70
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 186
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: smashed potatoes, crispy potatoes, brown butter sage, side dish, roasted potatoes, holiday side dish