Crispy Rosemary Garlic Smashed Potatoes Recipe Everyone Loves

Golden, crispy rosemary garlic smashed potatoes dance with herb-infused flavor on every plate.

Salt crystals glisten against the rustic potato skins, promising a crunchy exterior.

Each bite reveals a creamy interior that melts deliciously in your mouth.

Incredibly simple techniques create restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen.

Mediterranean herbs bring robust character to this classic side dish.

Fragrant rosemary and sharp garlic combine for an irresistible combination that elevates humble potatoes.

You’ll want to make these again and again for dinner companions.

Top Tips For Rosemary Garlic Smashed Potatoes

• Boost Potato Crispiness: Pat potatoes completely dry before smashing to achieve maximum golden-brown, crunchy exterior.
• Herb Infusion Technique: Crush fresh rosemary between fingers before adding to release more intense aromatic oils and enhance overall flavor profile.
• Salt Layering Strategy: Generously season potatoes at multiple stages – during boiling, after smashing, and before roasting – to build deep, complex seasoning.
• Garlic Enhancement Hack: Mince garlic finely or use a microplane grater to distribute flavor evenly and prevent burning during high-temperature roasting.
• Smart Storage Solution: Store leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days, reheating in oven to maintain original crispy texture.

How To Store Rosemary Garlic Smashed Potatoes Right

• Refrigerate leftover pasta bake in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Cool the dish completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to a sealed container to maintain freshness.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of water to keep the pasta moist.
• Avoid freezing this dish, as the creamy ricotta and multiple cheeses may separate and lose their original texture when thawed.
• For best quality, consume within 3-4 days and always ensure thorough reheating to an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

Perfect Matches For Rosemary Garlic Smashed Potatoes

• Pop Open a Robust Red Wine: Pair this hearty pasta bake with a medium-bodied Italian red like Chianti or Sangiovese that cuts through the rich cheese and complements the savory meat sauce.
• Craft a Fresh Garden Salad: Toss together a crisp mixed green salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette to balance the dish's richness and add a refreshing contrast.
• Serve with Garlic Herb Bread: Prepare warm, crusty Italian bread brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with herbs to soak up the delicious meat sauce and provide a perfect side companion.
• Choose a Bright Citrus Mocktail: Mix a zesty lemon-lime sparkling drink with fresh mint to cleanse the palate and provide a light, tangy counterpoint to the heavy pasta bake.

Fun Ways To Change Up Rosemary Garlic Smashed Potatoes

• Vegetarian Veggie Blast: Swap ground beef with plant-based protein like crumbled tofu, tempeh, or lentils for a hearty meatless version packed with nutrients and robust flavors.
• Spicy Mediterranean Mix: Add chopped kalamata olives, feta cheese, and red bell peppers to elevate the dish with Mediterranean-inspired ingredients that bring extra zest and complexity.
• Creamy Alfredo Crossover: Replace marinara sauce with homemade alfredo sauce, incorporating white cheddar and cream cheese for a rich, luxurious pasta experience that feels indulgent and comforting.
• Low-Carb Zucchini Option: Use spiralized zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta, reducing carbohydrates while maintaining the delicious meat sauce and cheesy topping for a lighter meal alternative.

Rosemary Garlic Smashed Potatoes FAQs Answered

• Is this pasta bake spicy?

The red pepper flakes add a mild kick, but you can easily adjust the heat by reducing or omitting them. If you prefer a milder version, simply skip the red pepper flakes during cooking.

• Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives to beef. You can also try plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option. Just ensure you cook the meat thoroughly before adding to the sauce.

• How can I make this dish more nutritious?

Add extra vegetables to the meat sauce like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. These will boost the nutritional value and add more flavor and texture to your pasta bake. Chop the veggies finely so they blend seamlessly into the sauce.

• What if I don't have ricotta cheese?

No problem! You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or cream cheese. If you want a lighter option, use Greek yogurt. Each alternative will give a slightly different texture and taste to the pasta bake.

Why Rosemary Garlic Smashed Potatoes Taste So Good

• Quick Family Dinner Champion: This pasta bake delivers a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal that comes together effortlessly with simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
• Cheese Lover's Dream: Packed with three different cheeses (ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan), this dish creates a creamy, gooey texture that will make every cheese enthusiast swoon.
• Customizable Comfort Food: Easy to adapt with different protein options or additional vegetables, this recipe welcomes creative twists while maintaining its delicious core flavor profile.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimizes kitchen cleanup with a single baking dish, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want maximum flavor with minimal effort.

What You’ll Need For Rosemary Garlic Smashed Potatoes

• Pasta: Satisfying base for the dish, holds the sauce well.
• Ricotta Cheese: Creamy texture that adds richness.
• Mozzarella Cheese, Parmesan Cheese, Cheddar Cheese: Melty, flavorful cheese topping for golden crust.

• Ground Beef: Protein-packed main ingredient for hearty sauce.
• Marinara Sauce: Classic tomato sauce with Italian flavors.
• Diced Tomatoes: Adds texture and fresh tomato taste to the sauce.
• Onion, Garlic: Aromatic vegetables that provide depth of flavor.

• Italian Seasoning: Blend of dried herbs for authentic Italian taste.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance overall flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional heat for those who enjoy spice.
• Fresh Parsley or Basil: Optional garnish for freshness and color.

• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing meat and vegetables.
• Foil: Covers dish during initial baking to prevent burning.

How To Make Rosemary Garlic Smashed Potatoes Easily

Step 1: Boil Potatoes to Perfection

• Select small red or yellow potatoes
• Wash potatoes thoroughly
• Place potatoes in a large pot of cold water
• Add a generous pinch of salt
• Bring water to a rolling boil
• Cook until potatoes are fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes)
• Drain potatoes in a colander

Step 2: Prepare Flavor Explosion

• Fresh rosemary leaves
• Garlic cloves
• Olive oil
• Sea salt
• Black pepper

Finely chop rosemary and garlic together

Mix herbs with olive oil in a small bowl

Step 3: Smash and Season

• Place boiled potatoes on a baking sheet
• Gently press each potato with a fork or potato masher
• Spread them slightly apart
• Drizzle herb-infused oil over each potato
• Sprinkle sea salt and cracked black pepper

Step 4: Crisp to Golden Perfection

• Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C)
• Bake potatoes for 20-25 minutes
• Watch for crispy edges and golden-brown surface
• Potatoes should look crunchy and irresistible

Step 5: Final Touch and Serve

• Remove potatoes from oven
• Let cool for 2-3 minutes
• Transfer to a beautiful serving platter
• Garnish with extra fresh rosemary
• Serve immediately while hot and crispy

Bonus Tip: These potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted chicken or grilled steak. Enjoy the crispy, herb-packed goodness!

Rosemary Garlic Smashed Potatoes Recipe

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4.6 from 26 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Rosemary garlic smashed potatoes deliver crispy, herb-infused comfort straight from Mediterranean kitchens. Golden edges and fragrant herbs invite hungry friends to savor each perfectly seasoned, crunchy bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta and Protein:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or ziti)
• 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef (or Italian sausage)

Vegetables and Seasonings:

• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Sauces and Cheeses:

• 1 (24 ounces / 680 grams) jar marinara sauce
• 1 (14.5 ounces / 411 grams) can diced tomatoes, drained (optional)
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to a robust 425°F (220°C), ensuring a hot and ready cooking environment for transforming simple potatoes into a crispy, herbaceous delicacy.
2. Select medium-sized potatoes with smooth, unblemished skin and wash them thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Place the clean potatoes in a large pot, cover completely with cold water, and add a generous pinch of salt to enhance their natural flavor during boiling.
4. Bring the water to a rolling boil, then reduce heat and simmer the potatoes until they become tender and can be easily pierced with a fork, approximately 15-20 minutes.
5. Carefully drain the potatoes in a colander and transfer them to a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper, allowing them to cool slightly and steam to dissipate.
6. Gently press each potato using a potato masher or the bottom of a glass, creating rustic, uneven surfaces that will become delightfully crispy during roasting.
7. Drizzle the smashed potatoes generously with olive oil, ensuring each potato is evenly coated and has plenty of surface area exposed for maximum crispiness.
8. Sprinkle finely chopped fresh rosemary, minced garlic, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper over the potatoes, distributing the seasonings evenly.
9. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, rotating the baking sheet halfway through to guarantee uniform browning and crisp edges.
10. Remove from the oven when the potatoes are golden brown, crisp on the outside, and tender on the inside, with aromatic rosemary and garlic perfuming the kitchen.
11. Transfer to a serving platter, garnish with additional fresh rosemary sprigs, and serve immediately while hot and perfectly crisp.

Notes

• Perfectly crisp exterior comes from patting potatoes completely dry before smashing to remove excess moisture.
• Use small or medium-sized red or yellow potatoes for the best texture and consistent cooking.
• Select high-quality olive oil with robust flavor to enhance the rosemary and garlic notes during roasting.
• Adjust seasoning levels by crushing fresh garlic cloves directly onto potatoes for more intense flavor profile.
• Experiment with alternative herbs like thyme or oregano to create unique taste variations while maintaining the dish’s core technique.
• For gluten-free and dairy-free modifications, ensure all ingredients meet specific dietary requirements before preparation.
• Roast potatoes on a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet or heavy baking sheet to promote maximum crispiness and even browning.
• Store leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container and reheat in a hot oven to maintain their crunchy exterior.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 470
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg