If you are looking for a side dish that combines crispy, golden edges with a lick of sweet and savory, look no further than this Honey Butter Smashed Potatoes Recipe. These small potatoes get boiled to tender perfection, smashed just right, then baked with a luscious honey butter glaze that transforms a simple spud into a celebration of flavor and texture. Every bite bursts with buttery richness, a gentle hint of honey sweetness, and just enough garlic to keep things interesting. It’s comfort food with a charming twist that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds at the dinner table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key, and this recipe is wonderfully simple yet thoughtful in its choices. Each item plays a crucial role, whether adding smoothness, a touch of sweetness, or a welcome crunch to the potatoes.
- 2 pounds baby potatoes (red or gold): Their size ensures a tender interior and crispy edges once smashed and baked.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Brings the rich, creamy base for the honey butter glaze.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Adds a natural, subtle sweetness that perfectly balances the savory components.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps achieve that irresistible crispy texture on the potatoes’ edges.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a gentle garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing and rounding out all other flavors.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional): Offers a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness at the end.
- Nonstick cooking spray or parchment paper: Ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking during baking.
How to Make Honey Butter Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by setting your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper or spraying it with nonstick cooking spray. This helps the potatoes crisp beautifully without sticking, setting the stage for a perfect bake.
Step 2: Boil the Potatoes
Place the baby potatoes in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook them for 15 to 20 minutes until they are fork-tender but still hold their shape. This step ensures a soft interior that contrasts amazingly with the crispy exterior you’ll create later.
Step 3: Smash with Care
Drain the potatoes and let them cool just enough to handle safely. Then gently press each potato with the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to flatten them slightly — aiming for about half an inch thickness. This smashing step is what creates those delicious crispy edges when baked.
Step 4: Make the Honey Butter Glaze
Melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, then stir in honey, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This luscious glaze is the magic behind the flavor that makes this Honey Butter Smashed Potatoes Recipe so memorable.
Step 5: Brush and Bake
Generously brush each smashed potato with the honey butter mixture, making sure to coat every crevice for maximum flavor. Bake them for 25 to 30 minutes until the edges are golden brown and irresistibly crispy. The aroma while baking is simply intoxicating.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
If you like, sprinkle fresh parsley over the potatoes right before serving. This adds a fresh, vibrant note and a splash of color that makes the dish look as good as it tastes.
How to Serve Honey Butter Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley are a fantastic way to add color and a burst of freshness to the rich potatoes. You can also experiment with chives or a pinch of smoked paprika if you want a subtle smoky flair.
Side Dishes
These potatoes make a delightful partner to roasted meats such as chicken or pork and also shine alongside grilled vegetables or a crisp salad. Their slightly sweet and buttery flavor balances perfectly with savory mains and hearty sauces.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve them stacked with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkling of crispy bacon bits or shredded cheese. They also work beautifully tossed in a warm salad with greens, nuts, and dried fruit for an elegant appetizer or side.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover honey butter smashed potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them tasting fresh, you might want to add a little extra butter or honey glaze when reheating.
Freezing
While possible to freeze, the texture might change slightly upon thawing. If you plan to freeze, lay the cooled smashed potatoes flat in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw completely before reheating.
Reheating
For best results, reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) on a baking sheet until warmed through and crisped back up, about 10-15 minutes. Microwaving may make them soggy but works in a pinch.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Absolutely! Larger potatoes can work, but you’ll want to cut them into smaller chunks before boiling to ensure they cook evenly and smash easily.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply swap the unsalted butter for a plant-based butter alternative. The olive oil and honey combo will still keep things flavorful and moist.
How sweet are these Honey Butter Smashed Potatoes?
They have a subtle sweetness from the honey that complements the savory butter and garlic perfectly without being overpowering.
Can I prepare these in advance for a party?
Definitely! You can boil and smash the potatoes earlier in the day, then brush with the honey butter glaze and bake right before serving for fresh, crispy results.
What if I want to add some heat?
Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or drizzle some hot honey into the butter mixture. It adds a fantastic kick that pairs beautifully with the sweet and buttery flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Honey Butter Smashed Potatoes Recipe is one of those dishes that wins hearts with every crispy, buttery, and sweet bite. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but special enough to impress guests, making it a true kitchen gem. Go ahead and make a batch—you might just discover your new favorite comfort side dish!
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Honey Butter Smashed Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
Honey Butter Smashed Potatoes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, flavored with a sweet and savory honey butter glaze. This easy-to-make American side dish is perfect for pairing with roasted meats or serving as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, featuring baby potatoes smashed flat, brushed with a honey garlic butter mixture, and baked until golden and crispy.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 pounds baby potatoes (red or gold)
Honey Butter Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Additional
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Nonstick cooking spray or parchment paper for baking sheet
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or spraying it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the baby potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15–20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender, indicating they are cooked through.
- Drain and Cool: Drain the boiled potatoes thoroughly and allow them to cool slightly so they are easier to handle for smashing.
- Smash the Potatoes: Arrange the potatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup, gently press down on each potato to flatten it to about half its original thickness, being careful not to break them apart completely.
- Prepare the Honey Butter: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Stir in the honey, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined to create a flavorful glaze.
- Brush Potatoes: Generously brush the honey butter mixture over each smashed potato, ensuring they are well coated to develop a sweet and savory crust.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges of the potatoes turn golden brown and crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot honey to the butter mixture.
- These potatoes pair perfectly with roasted meats or can be served as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
