If you’re on the hunt for a side dish that’s as impressive as it is easy to make, look no further than these herbed smashed potatoes with blue cheese. Imagine tender red potatoes, perfectly smashed to create crispy edges, then generously dressed with a mix of fresh herbs and tangy blue cheese. This recipe is not only a showstopper at dinner parties but also a comforting addition to your weeknight meals.

These herbed smashed potatoes are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether served alongside grilled meats, roasted veggies, or simply enjoyed on their own, they are sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get cooking!

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

Herbed smashed potatoes with blue cheese are an excellent addition to your recipe repertoire for several reasons:

Versatile: They pair well with a variety of main dishes, from roasted chicken to grilled steak.
Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up quickly.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of fresh herbs and blue cheese adds a depth of flavor that elevates the humble potato.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, these potatoes fit right in.

What Goes Into Herbed Smashed Potatoes with Blue Cheese

To create this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 lbs small red potatoes, washed and scrubbed
5 Tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp fresh thyme leaves + more for garnish
1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
Chopped chives for garnish

Cook’s Kit

Before you get started, make sure you have these essential tools on hand:

Large Pot: For boiling the potatoes.
Baking Sheet: To roast the smashed potatoes in the oven.
Potato Masher: For achieving that perfect smashed texture.
Mixing Bowl: To combine your olive oil and seasonings.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient amounts.

Make Herbed Smashed Potatoes with Blue Cheese: A Simple Method

Follow these easy steps to create your herbed smashed potatoes with blue cheese:

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Begin by placing the washed and scrubbed small red potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with water, ensuring they are fully submerged. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

While the potatoes are boiling, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat will help achieve a crispy exterior when roasting.

Step 3: Prepare the Oil Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and fresh thyme leaves. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Smash the Potatoes

Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and let them cool slightly. Transfer the potatoes to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using a potato masher or the bottom of a glass, gently smash each potato until it’s flattened but still intact.

Step 5: Season and Roast

Drizzle the prepared olive oil mixture over the smashed potatoes, making sure to coat them evenly. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.

Step 6: Add the Blue Cheese

Remove the potatoes from the oven and sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese over the top. Return them to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt slightly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the potatoes are out of the oven, garnish with fresh thyme and chopped chives. Serve warm and enjoy the incredible flavors of these herbed smashed potatoes with blue cheese!

Season-by-Season Upgrades

Feel free to adapt this recipe to take advantage of seasonal ingredients:

Spring: Add fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a vibrant flavor boost.
Summer: Toss in roasted cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and sweetness.
Fall: Incorporate roasted garlic for a deeper, sweeter flavor.
Winter: Top with crispy bacon bits for added crunch and savoriness.

Pro Perspective

When it comes to herbed smashed potatoes with blue cheese, there are a few tips from culinary pros that can take your dish to the next level:

Choosing Potatoes: Opt for small red potatoes for their waxy texture, which holds up well when smashed.
Cheese Selection: While blue cheese is fantastic, feel free to experiment with goat cheese or feta for a different flavor profile.
Texture Matters: Don’t over-smash your potatoes; you want a mix of crispy edges and fluffy centers.
Flavor Infusion: Allowing the potatoes to rest in the olive oil mixture for a few minutes before roasting can enhance their flavor.

Save It for Later

Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how you can save and reheat your herbed smashed potatoes with blue cheese:

Storage: Place leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until warmed through and crispy again, about 10-15 minutes.
Freezing: Although it’s best fresh, you can freeze the smashed potatoes. Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and foil.

Common Questions

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

Yes! While small red potatoes are ideal, you can use Yukon gold or fingerling potatoes. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on their size.

Is it possible to make these potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can boil and smash the potatoes ahead of time, then refrigerate them. When ready to serve, just drizzle with oil and roast until crispy.

What can I substitute for blue cheese?

If blue cheese isn’t your thing, try using goat cheese or a sharp cheddar for a different flavor twist.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Substitute olive oil for vegan butter and skip the cheese, or use a plant-based cheese alternative to keep the creamy element.

One Pan, More Ideas

Looking for more delicious potato recipes? Check out these options:

That’s a Wrap

With their crispy edges, creamy blue cheese, and aromatic herbs, these herbed smashed potatoes are more than just a side dish—they’re a celebration of flavor and texture. Perfect for any occasion, they’re bound to impress your guests and delight your family. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and start smashing your way to a delicious dinner!

Enjoy every bite of this culinary delight and watch as it becomes a staple in your kitchen for years to come.