Crispy Smashed Potato Salad: Amazing Crunch!

July 27, 2025

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Crispy smashed potato salad has completely changed my perception of what potato salad can be! Forget the bland, mushy versions of the past. I recently discovered this incredible twist, and it’s become my go-to for potlucks and weeknight dinners alike. The satisfying crunch of the smashed, roasted potatoes paired with a tangy, creamy dressing is pure magic. It’s surprisingly easy crispy smashed potato salad to whip up, and learning how to make crispy smashed potato salad this way has been a game-changer for my entertaining. The aroma of the garlic and herbs as they roast is absolutely divine. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

You’re going to adore this unique take on a classic! Here’s why this dish is a winner:

Incredible Flavor & Texture: The perfect balance of crispy edges and creamy dressing is irresistible.
Quick Prep Time: It’s surprisingly fast to get this delicious salad on the table.
Healthier Twist: Loaded with fresh ingredients like Greek yogurt and herbs, it’s a lighter option.
Budget-Friendly: Potatoes are affordable, making this a great meal for any budget.
Family Favorite: Even picky eaters love the crunch and creamy goodness of this smashed crispy potato salad.
Versatile Side Dish: It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, chicken, or as a standalone light meal.
Crowd-Pleaser: This smashed crispy potato salad is always a hit at barbecues and gatherings.

Ingredients for Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

Gather these simple ingredients for a truly delicious crispy smashed potato salad experience. The base is humble baby potatoes, which get wonderfully tender when boiled and then delightfully crispy when smashed and roasted. For the creamy dressing, I love using a mix of 3/4 cup Greek yogurt and 1/2 cup Kewpie mayonnaise. Kewpie’s rich, umami flavor makes a big difference, but regular mayo works too if you can’t find it. A touch of 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard adds a lovely tang, while 1/2 lemon, juiced brings brightness. Don’t forget the 1 Garlic Clove, minced – it’s key for that delightful garlic crispy smashed potato salad aroma and taste! Fresh herbs like 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped and a finely chopped 1 Dill Pickle add fantastic flavor, and 1 Shallot, finely chopped gives it a gentle oniony bite. You’ll also need 2 pounds Baby Potatoes, 3 tablespoons Olive Oil, 1/2 teaspoon Salt, and 1/4 teaspoon Pepper for roasting.

Crispy Smashed Potato Salad: Amazing Crunch! - Crispy Smashed Potato Salad - additional detail

How to Make Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

Making this delicious salad is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps for an unforgettable oven baked crispy smashed potato salad experience.

Step 1: Prepare and Boil Potatoes
First things first, give those baby potatoes a good wash. We want them squeaky clean! Place them in a medium pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water – this seasons the potatoes from the inside out. Bring the water to a boil and cook for about 15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. You should be able to easily pierce a potato with a fork, but they shouldn’t be falling apart.
Step 2: Smash and Season Potatoes
Once the potatoes are tender, drain them well and let them cool for a few minutes. This is where the magic happens! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper – it makes cleanup a breeze. Gently place each potato on the baking sheet and use the bottom of a fork or even your palm to carefully smash them. You’re not trying to mash them into a pulp, just flatten them slightly to create those wonderful crispy edges. Drizzle the smashed potatoes with 3 tablespoons Olive Oil and sprinkle them evenly with 1/2 teaspoon Salt and 1/4 teaspoon Pepper. Make sure they’re well-coated for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Bake for Crispy Edges
Now, it’s time to get them golden and delicious! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the seasoned, smashed potatoes into the hot oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them – you’re looking for beautiful golden-brown color and those irresistible crispy edges. The smell that fills your kitchen during this stage of making your oven baked crispy smashed potato salad is absolutely amazing!
Step 4: Make the Creamy Dressing
While the potatoes are getting their crisp on, let’s whip up the creamy dressing for your creamy crispy smashed potato salad. In a medium bowl, combine 3/4 cup Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup Kewpie mayonnaise, 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard, the juice of 1/2 lemon, 1 minced Garlic Clove, 1/4 cup chopped Fresh Parsley, 1 finely chopped Dill Pickle, and 1 finely chopped Shallot. Give it all a good stir until everything is beautifully combined and smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed – a little more lemon or salt can make a big difference!
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Once your potatoes are perfectly crispy and golden, take them out of the oven and let them cool for just a few minutes. You want them warm, but not piping hot, so they don’t turn the dressing watery. Gently add the warm, crispy potatoes to the bowl with the creamy dressing. Toss everything together carefully, making sure each smashed potato is coated in that luscious dressing. Serve your incredible crispy smashed potato salad immediately while it’s still warm, or chill it in the refrigerator for later enjoyment.

Crispy Smashed Potato Salad: Amazing Crunch! - Crispy Smashed Potato Salad - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

Achieving that perfect crunch and creamy texture in your crispy smashed potato salad is all about a few key techniques. I’ve learned these through trial and error, and they make all the difference!

Boil potatoes until just fork-tender. Overcooked potatoes will turn mushy when smashed, defeating the purpose of a crispy edge.
Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet when smashing and roasting. Give each potato space to allow air to circulate for maximum crispiness.
Let the smashed potatoes cool slightly before tossing with the dressing. This prevents the dressing from becoming watery and helps the flavors meld beautifully.

What’s the secret to perfect crispy smashed potato salad?

The absolute secret to a perfect crispy smashed potato salad is in the smashing and the roasting! Ensure your potatoes are tender but not mushy before smashing gently. This technique, combined with a hot oven and enough olive oil, is the best way to make smashed potatoes crispy. For more cooking inspiration, check out our tasty therapeutic cooking tips.

Can I make crispy smashed potato salad ahead of time?

You can prep elements ahead for an easy crispy smashed potato salad. Boil and smash the potatoes, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before roasting. Prepare the dressing separately and combine just before serving for the best texture. If you’re looking for other make-ahead dishes, consider our best funeral potatoes casserole.

How do I avoid common mistakes with crispy smashed potato salad?

A common pitfall is over-smashing, which leads to mushy potatoes. Also, avoid adding the dressing while the potatoes are too hot, as this can make the salad greasy. Ensure your oven is fully preheated for that crucial crispiness. For more tips on achieving perfect results, explore our about me page for insights.

Best Ways to Serve Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

This delightful salad is incredibly versatile, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. I love serving it as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or burgers; the combination of smoky barbecue flavors and the cool, creamy potato salad is divine. For a heartier meal, consider adding some crumbled bacon or rotisserie chicken to the salad itself. It’s also wonderful with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. You’ll find that this potato salad with crunchy potatoes is the perfect complement to almost any main course, bringing a satisfying texture and bright flavor to your plate. Discover more amazing recipes on our site.

Nutrition Facts for Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

This delightful salad offers a satisfying balance of flavors and textures. Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (recipe makes 4 servings):

Calories: 350
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 450mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. For more healthy eating ideas, explore our pink salt weight loss recipe.

How to Store and Reheat Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

Storing this delightful salad properly ensures you can enjoy its amazing texture and flavor later. Once you’ve finished your delicious creation, let the crispy smashed potato salad cool down to room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. While it’s best enjoyed within that timeframe, you can technically freeze portions for up to 3 months, though the texture might change slightly upon thawing. For a quick crispy potato salad experience later, simply remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. If you prefer it warm, you can gently reheat it in the oven at a low temperature, around 300°F (150°C), for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, but be mindful that this may reduce some of the crispiness.

Variations of Crispy Smashed Potato Salad You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic crispy smashed potato salad, the possibilities for delicious variations are endless! Don’t be afraid to get creative and tailor it to your taste. For a fantastic flavor boost, try a herbed crispy smashed potato salad by adding finely chopped chives or dill directly into the potato smashing mixture before baking. If you’re looking for a different cooking method, the air fryer smashed potato salad is a game-changer, delivering incredible crispiness in even less time. Simply follow the smashing and seasoning steps, then air fry at 390°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy. You can also make it vegan by swapping the Greek yogurt and Kewpie mayo for your favorite plant-based alternatives, like cashew cream or a vegan mayonnaise. For other vegan options, check out this vegan delight viral Dubai chocolate.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

Can I use different types of potatoes for this crispy potato salad recipe?

While baby potatoes are ideal because they smash nicely and cook evenly, you can experiment with other waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds or red potatoes. Just make sure to cut them into uniform, bite-sized pieces before boiling, and aim for that perfect tender-crisp texture for smashing. For more information on potato types, you might find this guide on different types of vanilla interesting, though it doesn’t cover potatoes directly.

How do I get extra crispy edges on my smashed potatoes?

The key to achieving those wonderful crispy edges in your crispy smashed potato salad is to ensure the potatoes are well-dried after boiling, then smash them with enough surface area exposed. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, and make sure your oven is fully preheated to at least 400°F (200°C) for optimal browning. For other crispy recipes, consider our salmon Wellington recipe.

What if I don’t have Kewpie mayonnaise?

No worries at all! If you can’t find Kewpie mayonnaise, regular full-fat mayonnaise works perfectly well in this recipe. The flavor profile will be slightly different, but it will still create a delicious and creamy dressing for your crispy smashed potato salad. You might want to add a tiny bit more lemon juice or Dijon mustard to compensate for Kewpie’s unique tang.

Can I add other vegetables or mix-ins to this crispy potato salad recipe?

Absolutely! This crispy smashed potato salad is a fantastic base for creativity. Feel free to add finely chopped celery for extra crunch, red onion for a sharper bite, or even some cooked bacon bits for a smoky flavor. Fresh chives or a sprinkle of paprika on top also add a lovely touch.