Loaded Smashed Potatoes

SUPER CRISPY smashed potatoes topped with sour cream, Turkey Turkey Turkey Bacon + chives. The easiest most perfect bite-sized appetizer! These Loaded Smashed Potatoes are ideal for parties, game days, or any gathering where you want to impress guests with minimal effort. Featuring a delightful crunch and savory toppings, this dish is sure to be the star of the show!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, these Loaded Smashed Potatoes can be whipped up quickly, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of creamy sour cream, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy Turkey Turkey Turkey Bacon offers a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as an appetizer, snack, or even a side dish; these potatoes fit perfectly into any meal plan.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves a good potato dish! These Loaded Smashed Potatoes are sure to satisfy both kids and adults alike.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to switch up the toppings according to your taste—add jalapeños for heat or extra veggies for a fresh twist.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Loaded Smashed Potatoes, you’ll need a few essential tools that will help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Baking sheet
• Flat measuring cup or glass
• Cast iron skillet
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: This pot ensures even cooking when boiling the potatoes, making them tender without falling apart.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet allows for proper heat circulation while roasting the smashed potatoes for that desired crispiness.

Ingredients

To create your delicious Loaded Smashed Potatoes, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds baby yellow potatoes
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/3 cup sour cream
• 4 slices Turkey Turkey Turkey Bacon (diced)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

How to Make Loaded Smashed Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450 degrees F. Lightly oil a baking sheet or coat it with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

• Place the baby yellow potatoes in a Dutch oven.
• Cover them with cold salted water by about one inch.
• Bring the water to a boil and simmer until the potatoes are just tender (about 15 minutes).
• Drain well and let them cool slightly.

Step 3: Smash the Potatoes

• Transfer the cooled potatoes onto the prepared baking sheet.
• Using a flat measuring cup or glass, carefully smash each potato until flattened but still intact.
• Brush the smashed potatoes with olive oil and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Bake Until Crispy

Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
* Afterward, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each potato and return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes until melted.

Step 5: Prepare the Turkey Bacon

Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
* Add diced Turkey Turkey Turkey Bacon and cook until browned and crispy (about 6-8 minutes).
* Drain excess fat and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 6: Assemble Your Dish

Top each potato with a dollop of sour cream, crispy Turkey Turkey Turkey Bacon bits, and chopped fresh chives.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Enjoy your Loaded Smashed Potatoes hot from the oven as an irresistible appetizer or side dish!

How to Serve Loaded Smashed Potatoes

Loaded smashed potatoes are a delightful appetizer that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying a family dinner, these potatoes can be served in different styles to please everyone.

As an Appetizer

• Bite-sized portions make them easy to enjoy before the main meal. Serve them on a platter with toothpicks for easy picking.

With Dips

• Pair them with your favorite dips such as ranch or garlic aioli. The creamy textures complement the crispy potatoes beautifully.

On a Salad

• Place loaded smashed potatoes on a fresh garden salad. They add an exciting twist and make the salad more filling.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or turkey. The flavors of the loaded smashed potatoes enhance the main dish perfectly.

How to Perfect Loaded Smashed Potatoes

Creating the ideal loaded smashed potatoes requires some attention to detail. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

• Choose the right potatoes: Use baby yellow potatoes for a creamy texture and buttery flavor.
• Don’t rush boiling: Ensure potatoes are tender but not falling apart for perfect smashing.
• Use enough oil: Olive oil helps achieve that crispy golden exterior that everyone loves.
• Smash gently: Press down just enough to flatten without breaking apart; this will keep them intact while baking.
• Bake at high heat: A hotter oven ensures crispiness, so don’t skip preheating.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like jalapeños or green onions for extra flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Loaded Smashed Potatoes

Loaded smashed potatoes pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken: Juicy and flavorful, grilled chicken complements the richness of the potatoes.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies adds color and nutrition to your meal.
3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with creamy dressing provides a refreshing contrast.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful and hearty, stuffed peppers can round out your plate nicely.
5. Quinoa Salad: Light yet fulfilling, quinoa salad adds a nutty flavor and healthy grains.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is always a crowd-pleaser during warmer months, balancing out savory flavors.
7. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw brings a tangy crunch that pairs well with creamy potatoes.
8. Garlic Bread: For those who love carbs, garlic bread can make any meal more comforting and satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Loaded Smashed Potatoes can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Salting Step: Not salting the water when boiling potatoes can lead to bland flavors. Always add salt to your boiling water for enhanced taste.
• Using Cold Potatoes: Starting with cold potatoes can result in uneven cooking. Ensure your potatoes are at room temperature before boiling for consistent texture.
• Overcooking the Potatoes: Cooking potatoes too long makes them mushy and hard to smash. Aim for just tender potatoes, about 15 minutes of boiling should suffice.
• Neglecting Oil: Forgetting to brush the smashed potatoes with oil can lead to an uncrispy texture. Olive oil is essential for that perfect golden brown finish.
• Crowding the Baking Sheet: Placing too many smashed potatoes close together prevents them from crisping up properly. Give each potato enough space on the baking sheet.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Loaded Smashed Potatoes in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Loaded Smashed Potatoes

• Place completely cooled smashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Loaded Smashed Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, checking every minute until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, adding a little oil, and heat each side until warmed and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding Loaded Smashed Potatoes.

How do I make Loaded Smashed Potatoes vegan?

You can substitute sour cream with a plant-based alternative and omit or replace turkey bacon with a plant-based version.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for varied flavors in your Loaded Smashed Potatoes.

How do I prevent my potatoes from sticking?

Make sure you use enough olive oil on both the baking sheet and the potatoes themselves. This helps achieve that crispy exterior without sticking.

What variations can I try with Loaded Smashed Potatoes?

You can customize them by adding toppings like jalapeños, green onions, or different types of cheese for extra flavor!

Final Thoughts

Loaded Smashed Potatoes are not only easy to prepare but also versatile and fun! You can customize them based on your preferences or what you have available. Try this recipe today and enjoy these delicious bites at your next gathering!