Description
These Loaded Smashed Potatoes are a delightful side dish featuring crispy smashed baby potatoes topped with crispy streaky bacon, smoky spices, sour cream, melted cheddar, spring onions, and pickled jalapeños. Perfectly seasoned and crunchy on the outside, soft inside, they are ideal for a flavorful snack or a delicious accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes & Seasoning
- 20 Baby Potatoes
- 2 tsp Salt (for boiling)
- 1/4–1/2 tsp Salt (for seasoning after smashing)
- 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika
- 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
Bacon & Oil
- 6 slices Streaky Bacon
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
Toppings
- 120g / 1/2 cup Sour Cream
- 120g / 4oz Cheddar, grated
- 1–2 thin Spring Onions, finely sliced
- Handful of Pickled Jalapeños, finely diced
Instructions
- Boil Potatoes: Place the baby potatoes in a large pot with 2 teaspoons of salt and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes. Drain completely.
- Cook Bacon: While the potatoes boil, fry the streaky bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat, then chop into small pieces.
- Smash Potatoes: Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F). Place the cooked potatoes on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Using a potato masher or the bottom of a glass, gently press down on each potato to flatten them to about 1/2 inch thick.
- Season & Oil: Drizzle the smashed potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sprinkle with smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Toss gently to coat evenly.
- Bake Potatoes: Bake the seasoned smashed potatoes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy around the edges.
- Add Toppings: Remove the potatoes from the oven. Dollop sour cream on each potato, sprinkle generously with grated cheddar cheese and chopped bacon pieces, then return to the oven for 5-7 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Garnish & Serve: Once out of the oven, scatter finely sliced spring onions and diced pickled jalapeños over the loaded smashed potatoes. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Baby potatoes work best as they smash easily and cook evenly.
- If you prefer less spice, adjust the amount of smoked paprika and jalapeños.
- Use full-fat sour cream for better richness, but low-fat options work too.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add extra cheese or a smoky seasoning.
- These can be made ahead and reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.
Keywords: Loaded smashed potatoes, crispy smashed potatoes, bacon smashed potatoes, cheesy potatoes, smoky potatoes, easy side dish, baked potatoes, party appetizer