Honey Mustard Smashed Potatoes: The Ultimate Crispy Side Dish

Honey Mustard Smashed Potatoes: Prepare to meet your new favorite side dish! Imagine crispy, golden-brown potatoes, perfectly seasoned and then drizzled with a tangy-sweet honey mustard glaze. These aren’t your average mashed potatoes; they’re a flavor explosion in every bite, and I promise, they’ll disappear faster than you can say “seconds!”

While the exact origins of smashed potatoes are debated, the concept of flattening and roasting potatoes to maximize crispy surface area has been around for generations. Think of it as a rustic, deconstructed take on traditional potato dishes, embracing simplicity and bold flavors. The addition of honey mustard elevates this humble spud to a whole new level of deliciousness.

What makes these Honey Mustard Smashed Potatoes so irresistible? It’s the delightful contrast of textures – the creamy interior gives way to a satisfyingly crunchy exterior. The honey mustard sauce adds a sweet and tangy kick that perfectly complements the earthy flavor of the potatoes. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing side for a weeknight dinner or a show-stopping addition to your holiday table, these smashed potatoes are guaranteed to be a hit. Get ready to experience potato perfection!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds small Yukon Gold potatoes, about 1-2 inches in diameter
• 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Optional: Red pepper flakes, for a touch of heat

Preparing the Potatoes:

Okay, let’s get started! First things first, we need to get our potatoes ready for their smashing debut. This part is super important because properly cooked potatoes are key to achieving that perfect crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside texture we’re after.

1. Wash the potatoes thoroughly. Give those Yukon Golds a good scrub under cold running water. You want to remove any dirt or debris clinging to their skins. Since we’re leaving the skins on (for extra flavor and nutrients!), cleanliness is crucial.
2. Boil the potatoes until tender. Place the washed potatoes in a large 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 over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are easily pierced with a fork. You don’t want them to be mushy, just tender enough to smash.
3. Drain the potatoes. Once the potatoes are tender, carefully drain them in a colander. Let them steam dry for a few minutes – this helps to remove excess moisture and contributes to a crispier final product.

Making the Honey Mustard Sauce:

While the potatoes are cooling slightly, let’s whip up that irresistible honey mustard sauce. This is where the magic happens, folks! The combination of tangy Dijon, sweet honey, and a touch of spice creates a flavor explosion that perfectly complements the earthy potatoes.

1. Combine the sauce ingredients. In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. The apple cider vinegar adds a nice tang that balances the sweetness of the honey.
2. Taste and adjust. Give the sauce a taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a little more honey. For a tangier sauce, add a touch more apple cider vinegar. If you want a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Smashed Potato Time!

Now for the fun part – smashing! This is where we transform those humble boiled potatoes into crispy, flavorful delights. Don’t be shy; give them a good smash!

1. Preheat your oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is essential for achieving that crispy exterior we’re craving.
2. Prepare the baking sheet. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the potatoes from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
3. Smash the potatoes. Place the slightly cooled potatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Using the bottom of a glass, a potato masher, or a fork, gently press down on each potato until it is flattened to about 1/2-inch thickness. Be careful not to smash them too thin, or they might fall apart.
4. Brush with olive oil. Brush the smashed potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Make sure to coat them evenly, as this will help them crisp up beautifully in the oven.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Season the smashed potatoes generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be afraid to be liberal with the seasoning – it’s what brings out the flavor of the potatoes.

Baking and Glazing:

Almost there! Now we bake the potatoes until they’re golden brown and crispy, then we slather them with that delicious honey mustard sauce. Get ready for some serious flavor!

1. Bake the potatoes. Bake the smashed potatoes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy around the edges. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
2. Remove from oven and glaze. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and brush the smashed potatoes with the honey mustard sauce. Make sure to coat them evenly, getting into all those nooks and crannies.
3. Return to oven for final bake. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and slightly caramelized. This final bake allows the sauce to adhere to the potatoes and creates a beautiful, glossy finish.

Serving:

The moment we’ve all been waiting for! Time to serve up these crispy, flavorful honey mustard smashed potatoes. They’re perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a snack. Get ready for rave reviews!

1. Garnish and serve. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the smashed potatoes cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes (if desired).
2. Enjoy! Serve the honey mustard smashed potatoes immediately and enjoy! They’re best served hot and crispy.

Tips for Perfect Smashed Potatoes:

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for smashed potatoes because they have a creamy texture and hold their shape well.
• Don’t overcook the potatoes: Overcooked potatoes will be mushy and difficult to smash. Aim for tender but not falling apart.
• Use a hot oven: A high oven temperature is essential for achieving crispy smashed potatoes.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Overcrowding the baking sheet will steam the potatoes instead of allowing them to crisp up. Work in batches if necessary.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, and sauces to create your own unique smashed potato variations. Try adding rosemary, thyme, or garlic to the potatoes before baking. Or, try using a different type of mustard or honey in the sauce.
• Make them ahead: You can boil and smash the potatoes ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Variations:

• Spicy Smashed Potatoes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the honey mustard sauce for a touch of heat.
• Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes: Sprinkle the smashed potatoes with grated Parmesan cheese and minced garlic before baking.
• Herb Smashed Potatoes: Toss the boiled potatoes with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano before smashing.
• Sweet Potato Smashed Potatoes: Substitute sweet potatoes for Yukon Gold potatoes for a sweeter and more colorful variation.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
• Serve as an appetizer with a dipping sauce like ranch dressing or sour cream.
• Serve as a snack with a sprinkle of cheese or bacon bits.
• Top with a fried egg for a delicious and satisfying breakfast or brunch.

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! These Honey Mustard Smashed Potatoes are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and they’re so easy to make. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! These Honey Mustard Smashed Potatoes are truly a game-changer, and I genuinely believe you’ll be hooked from the very first bite. The combination of crispy edges, fluffy insides, and that tangy-sweet honey mustard glaze is simply irresistible. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and exciting, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Why is this recipe a must-try? Well, beyond the incredible flavor profile, it’s also surprisingly easy to make. We’re talking minimal ingredients and straightforward steps. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip up a batch of these golden beauties. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile. They can be served as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish, or even enjoyed as a satisfying vegetarian main course.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

The possibilities are endless when it comes to serving and customizing these smashed potatoes. For a heartier meal, top them with crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and a dollop of sour cream. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten up the flavors.

Feeling adventurous? Experiment with different types of mustard. A Dijon mustard will add a bit of a kick, while a whole-grain mustard will provide a more rustic texture. You could even try adding a touch of sriracha to the honey mustard glaze for a spicy twist.

For a vegan version, simply substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. You can also use a plant-based butter alternative for brushing the potatoes.

These Honey Mustard Smashed Potatoes are also fantastic as a party appetizer. Simply make them smaller and serve them with toothpicks for easy snacking. Your guests will be raving about them!

I personally love serving these with a simple green salad and a grilled salmon fillet. The flavors complement each other perfectly, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

But honestly, the best way to enjoy these smashed potatoes is however you like! Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different toppings and flavor combinations. The most important thing is to have fun in the kitchen and create something that you truly love.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your potatoes, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of these Honey Mustard Smashed Potatoes. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you’ve made them, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did you serve them with? What did your family and friends think?

Please share your photos and comments on my social media pages. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your feedback. Your input helps me create even better recipes in the future. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite! I’m confident that this will become a new favorite in your household. Let me know what you think!