Smashed potatoes are a flavorful and versatile dish that can be served as a comforting side or even a main course. Crispy edges give way to a creamy, fluffy interior, and when you add savory gravy? Forget about it! You’ve got a dish that’s as perfect for a weeknight dinner as it is for a holiday feast.
This guide will teach you how to make the perfect smashed potatoes with gravy every single time.
Choosing the right potatoes
The type of potato you choose will affect the final dish. Here are a few of the most popular choices:
- Russet potatoes. Their high starch content makes for a fluffy interior and a crispy exterior.
- Yukon Gold potatoes. These potatoes have a creamy texture and a slightly sweet flavor. They also hold their shape well when smashed.
No matter which potato you choose, it’s important to pick potatoes that are about the same size so they cook evenly. Make sure the potatoes are firm and don’t have any blemishes.
Preparing the potatoes
There are two ways to cook your potatoes for this recipe: boiling or steaming.
Cooking the potatoes
To boil them, place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Adding the potatoes to cold water helps them cook evenly. Bring the water to a boil and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of your potatoes.
If you prefer, you can steam the potatoes until they’re soft enough to mash easily.
Smashed potato technique
Once your potatoes are cooked, gently flatten them with a fork or potato masher. Getting the steam out of the potatoes as you mash them will give you a creamier texture.
Now, season to your liking with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or any other spices you enjoy.
Achieving crispy perfection
Crispy smashed potatoes are all about the fat and the cooking method.
The role of fat
You can use butter, olive oil, or a combination of both to fry your smashed potatoes. Butter adds a rich flavor, while olive oil offers a slightly healthier profile and higher smoke point. Whichever you choose, don’t skimp! Using enough fat is key to getting that even browning and irresistible crispiness.
Cooking process
Pan-frying is the classic way to achieve golden-brown, crispy smashed potatoes. But if you’re looking for a healthier alternative, oven-baking can also deliver great results. Just be sure to flip them halfway through for even crisping.
Crafting the Perfect Gravy
Let’s be honest: the gravy is the star of the show, right? Here’s how to make a gravy that’ll have everyone begging for more.
Gravy Base Options
You’ve got a couple of choices when it comes to the base of your gravy:
- Pan Drippings: If you’ve roasted a chicken, turkey, or beef roast, those drippings are liquid gold! They’ll give your gravy a super-rich, savory flavor.
- Broth: For a lighter gravy or a vegetarian option, use beef, chicken, or vegetable broth.
Gravy Preparation
Here’s the basic technique:
- Roux: The key to a thick gravy is a roux. Melt some butter in a saucepan, then whisk in flour until it forms a smooth paste. Cook it for a minute or two to get rid of that raw flour taste.
- Seasoning: Now, slowly whisk in your chosen base (pan drippings or broth). Season with salt, pepper, and any other herbs and spices you like. If you’re in a hurry, a packet of Turkey Gravy Seasoning Mix works great!
Adding Flavor
Want to take your gravy to the next level? Try these:
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme, sage, or rosemary add a wonderful aroma and flavor.
- Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of smoked paprika can add a little something special.
Serving and Variations
Smashed potatoes with gravy make a fantastic side dish, and you can really dress them up with garnishes like fresh herbs or crumbled bacon. A dollop of sour cream is always welcome, too.
These potatoes pair well with almost any main course, but they’re especially good alongside pork chops or baked chicken.
Want to mix things up? Try adding a clove or two of minced garlic to the potatoes as you mash them. For a creamier, richer dish, add a splash of heavy cream, a pat of butter, and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Or, stir in some shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a cheesy twist!
In Summary
Smashed potatoes with gravy are the ultimate comfort food. They’re easy to make, super versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser.
For the best results, start with the right potatoes. Then, make sure they’re crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Finally, top them with a rich, flavorful gravy.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and toppings to create your own signature smashed potato dish. Happy cooking!