Crispy Smashed Potato Salad
Oh, if you’re looking for a potato salad with a serious twist, this Crispy Smashed Potato Salad is about to become your new obsession. Imagine those little tender potatoes getting a crunchy, golden crust on the outside while staying soft and fluffy inside then tossed in a zesty, creamy dressing that’s bursting with flavor. This isn’t your grandma’s potato salad; it’s a crispy, flavorful game-changer that’s perfect for picnics, BBQs, or just because you deserve something awesome.
The best part? You get all the comfort of potatoes with an exciting crisp texture that adds a satisfying bite. Trust me, this salad will have everyone coming back for seconds and maybe thirds!
Why You’ll Love Crispy Smashed Potato Salad
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re looking to impress at your next cookout or just crave something fresh and crunchy, this salad is a perfect match. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Enjoy it warm or cold, as a side or a light meal.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, everyday potatoes.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 45 minutes with minimal fuss.
Customizable: Add herbs, bacon bits, or your favorite crunchy toppings.
Crowd-Pleasing: Crispy, creamy, tangy a hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients in Crispy Smashed Potato Salad
Here’s the magic behind this crispy delight:
Baby Potatoes: The perfect size for smashing and crisping.
Olive Oil: Helps create that irresistible golden crust.
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: For a creamy, tangy dressing.
Dijon Mustard: Adds a subtle zing.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and chives bring freshness.
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: Boost flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning.
Optional Add-ins: Crispy bacon, chopped green onions, or shredded cheese.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Cook the Potatoes
Boil baby potatoes until fork-tender, then drain and cool slightly.
Smash the Potatoes
Place potatoes on a baking sheet and gently press each one down until it’s about half an inch thick.
Crisp the Potatoes
Drizzle olive oil generously over the smashed potatoes. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy.
Prepare the Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Toss and Combine
Add the crispy potatoes to the bowl with dressing. Toss gently to coat evenly. Sprinkle fresh herbs and optional add-ins on top.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve warm or chilled, and get ready for all the compliments.
Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 300
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
How to Serve Crispy Smashed Potato Salad
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Serve alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a hearty picnic side. A crisp green salad makes a perfect pairing.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Use firm baby potatoes for the best texture.
Don’t be afraid to get those edges really crispy—they add fantastic crunch.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the dressing for a bright lift.
Try mixing in some chopped crispy bacon or toasted nuts for texture contrast.
Leftovers reheat well in a skillet to restore crispness.
FAQ’s
1. Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Yes, just cut them into bite-sized chunks before boiling.
2. Is this salad best served warm or cold?
Either! Warm brings out the crispiness; cold makes it refreshing.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
4. Can I make the dressing dairy-free?
Use vegan mayo and skip the sour cream or substitute with a dairy-free alternative.
5. Can I add other herbs?
Absolutely—dill, thyme, or tarragon work wonderfully.
6. What oil is best for crisping?
Olive oil or avocado oil are great choices.
7. How do I keep the potatoes from getting soggy?
Make sure they are crispy before tossing with the dressing and serve promptly.
8. Can I add vegetables to the salad?
Yes, diced celery or bell peppers add crunch and color.
9. How long do I need to bake the potatoes?
About 20-25 minutes until golden and crisp.
10. Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but crisp potatoes best served soon after baking.
Conclusion
Crispy Smashed Potato Salad takes a classic comfort food up a notch with its irresistible crunch and tangy creaminess. It’s simple enough for any day but special enough to impress guests, making it a must-try recipe in your kitchen arsenal. Give it a go you’re going to love every crispy, flavorful bite!
Print
Crispy Smashed Potato Salad
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiled and Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy Smashed Potato Salad features tender boiled baby potatoes that are gently smashed and then pan-fried to achieve a deliciously crispy texture. Tossed with fresh herbs and a tangy dressing, this salad is a perfect blend of crunchy and creamy that makes a delightful side dish.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sour cream
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place baby potatoes in a pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain and let cool slightly.
- On a baking sheet or large plate, gently smash each potato using the bottom of a glass or a potato masher, keeping them in one piece but flattened.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add smashed potatoes and cook until golden and crispy on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer crispy potatoes to a serving bowl, drizzle with the dressing, and gently toss to coat.
- Sprinkle chopped parsley and chives on top before serving.
Notes
- Use Yukon Gold or red baby potatoes for best texture.
- Add crispy bacon bits or shredded cheese for extra flavor.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: crispy smashed potato salad, smashed potatoes, crispy potato side, potato salad with dressing, pan-fried potatoes