Easy Smashed Fingerling Potatoes Recipe
Introduction
These easy smashed fingerling potatoes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making a perfect side for any meal. With a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh chives, they offer a flavorful and satisfying twist on classic roasted potatoes.

Ingredients
- 1 pound fingerling potatoes
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt (for water)
- ½ teaspoon flaky sea salt (divided)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chives, chopped
Instructions
- Step 1: Wash the fingerling potatoes and place them in a saucepan with 2 teaspoons of kosher salt and enough water to cover. Bring to a boil and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork but still hold their shape.
- Step 2: Drain the potatoes in a colander, then return them to the hot, dry saucepan. This helps them dry quickly.
- Step 3: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the olive oil on a baking sheet and let it heat in the oven while it preheats.
- Step 4: Using the bottom of a flat glass or a potato masher, gently smash each potato to about ½ inch thickness.
- Step 5: Carefully remove the hot baking sheet from the oven. Arrange the smashed potatoes in a single layer on the sheet and sprinkle them with half of the flaky sea salt.
- Step 6: Bake the potatoes for 10 minutes. Remove the baking sheet, flip each potato, sprinkle with the remaining flaky salt, and return to the oven for another 10 minutes or until golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them after 5 minutes when crisping the second side, as oven temperatures vary.
- Step 7: Once cooked, remove the potatoes from the oven and immediately sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and chopped chives. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- For extra crispiness, make sure the baking sheet and oil are hot before adding the potatoes.
- Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder for additional flavor.
- Use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme instead of chives for a different taste.
- Parmesan can be swapped for pecorino or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
Storage
Store leftover smashed fingerling potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes to help them regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the potatoes soggy.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, small waxy potatoes like baby Yukon gold or red potatoes work well. Avoid using large, starchy potatoes as they may not hold together when smashed.
Do I have to boil the potatoes before smashing?
Boiling softens the potatoes enough to smash without falling apart and ensures they cook evenly in the oven. Skipping this step may result in undercooked or unevenly cooked potatoes.
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Easy Smashed Fingerling Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy and flavorful smashed fingerling potatoes baked to golden perfection and topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh chives. This easy side dish features boiled fingerling potatoes that are gently smashed and roasted in olive oil for a deliciously crispy texture.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 1 pound fingerling potatoes
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt (for water)
- ½ teaspoon flaky sea salt (divided)
For Baking & Topping
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chives, chopped
Instructions
- Boil the Potatoes: Wash the fingerling potatoes thoroughly and place them in a sauce pot along with 2 teaspoons of kosher salt. Add enough water to cover the potatoes, bring to a boil, and cook for about 10 minutes or until the potatoes can be easily pierced with a fork but are still firm enough to hold shape.
- Drain and Dry: Drain the cooked potatoes in a colander and then return them to the hot, dry pot to allow excess moisture to evaporate quickly.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Place olive oil on a baking sheet and let it heat as the oven preheats to ensure the potatoes crisp nicely.
- Smash the Potatoes: Using the flat bottom of a glass or a similar tool, gently press down on each potato to flatten it to about half an inch thick, being careful not to break it apart completely.
- Arrange and Season: Carefully remove the hot baking sheet from the oven and arrange the smashed potatoes in a single layer. Sprinkle with half of the flaky sea salt (¼ teaspoon).
- Bake First Side: Bake the potatoes for 10 minutes until the bottoms turn crispy and golden.
- Flip and Season Second Side: Take the baking sheet out, flip each potato, sprinkle with the remaining ¼ teaspoon flaky sea salt, and return the baking sheet to the oven.
- Bake Second Side: Continue baking for another 10 minutes or until the potatoes become crispy on the second side as well. Start checking for doneness around 5 minutes during the second bake to avoid burning.
- Finish and Serve: Once baked to crispy perfection, remove the potatoes from the oven. Sprinkle generously with Parmesan cheese and chopped chives. Serve immediately and enjoy this crispy, cheesy, herbaceous side dish.
Notes
- Using a hot baking sheet and preheated olive oil helps achieve maximum crispiness.
- Fingerling potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their small size and creamy texture.
- Check the potatoes frequently during the second baking to avoid overcooking or burning.
- You can substitute Parmesan cheese with Pecorino Romano or a vegan cheese alternative to adapt the recipe.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or a fresh green salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: smashed fingerling potatoes, crispy potatoes, baked potatoes, easy side dish, Parmesan potatoes, herb potatoes

