These Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes Might Steal The Whole Dinner
Sweet potatoes already have a way of making any meal feel cozy, but this version takes them to a whole new level.
These smashed sweet potatoes bake up tender inside and crisp outside, with smoky seasoning and a buttery finish that makes them impossible to stop eating.
They’re simple to make, visually gorgeous, and versatile enough to serve as a side dish or the main attraction.
Prepare And Season The Potatoes
Start by peeling large sweet potatoes and slicing them into thick ¾-inch rounds. This size gives you the perfect balance between soft centers and crispy edges later on.
In a small bowl, whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, chili powder, ground cumin, kosher salt, chipotle powder, and garlic powder.
Arrange the sweet potato slices on a large, rimmed baking sheet, then brush or spoon the spiced oil mixture over both sides so each round gets a full coating of flavor.
Bake Until Just Tender
Before baking, position your oven rack about six inches from the broiler – you’ll need this setup for the final crisping step.
Preheat the oven to 425°F, then slide the tray in and bake the potatoes for 15 to 18 minutes, until they’re just fork-tender.
When you test them, the fork should meet a little resistance in the center. This ensures they stay intact when it’s time to smash.
Smash And Broil To Perfection
Once baked, take the sheet out and set your broiler to high.
Using the bottom of a Mason jar or sturdy glass, press down evenly on each potato round until flattened but not broken apart. If the potatoes stick, place a piece of plastic wrap under the jar before pressing.
Broil the smashed potatoes for about 3 minutes, keeping a close watch – the goal is crisp edges and golden color, not burning.
Finish And Serve
When they’re perfectly browned, remove them from the oven and sprinkle with flaky sea salt while they’re still warm.
The salt enhances their sweetness and adds a delicate crunch.
At this point, you can serve them as is or turn them into something more: top with a drizzle of honey, crumbled feta, or even a dollop of sour cream.
Why They’re Worth Making Again and Again
What makes these smashed sweet potatoes special is how little effort it takes to get big flavor.
The texture contrast – creamy in the center, crispy at the edges – is irresistible, and the smoky seasoning gives them a subtle depth that regular roasted sweet potatoes just don’t have.
They’re an easy weeknight side that feels a little gourmet and a reminder that sometimes, the simplest techniques bring the most satisfying results.
