Smashed potatoes are rapidly becoming a favorite side dish in households across the globe, and for good reason. Their delightful combination of creamy insides and crispy edges makes them irresistible. But have you tried the Pioneer Woman Smashed Potato recipe? Inspired by Ree Drummond, this version elevates the humble smashed potato to gourmet status with a generous seasoning of herbs and coarse salt. Get ready to experience potato perfection!
What Makes Pioneer Woman Smashed Potatoes Stand Out?
The secret to these incredible smashed potatoes lies in simplicity and quality ingredients. Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman, is known for her approachable and flavorful home cooking, and this recipe is a testament to her style. It’s not just about smashing potatoes; it’s about infusing them with robust flavor from the inside out.
Drummond emphasizes using kosher or sea salt, a crucial tip for achieving the best roasted vegetable flavor. Table salt simply doesn’t compare when it comes to roasting. The coarser texture of kosher or sea salt enhances the taste and provides a pleasant salty crunch that complements the earthy potatoes and fragrant herbs. This recipe truly highlights the importance of “the good stuff” when it comes to seasoning.
The Story Behind the Recipe (and a Pioneer Woman Encounter!)
While this recipe is inspired by The Pioneer Woman, the original blogger at Domestic Superhero shares a fun personal anecdote about her connection to Ree Drummond. It’s a classic small-town story involving a friend, a TV appearance, and a surprising realization of just how famous the Pioneer Woman had become.
The blogger recounts a conversation where a friend mentioned knowing someone doing “pioneering stuff” on TV. After a bit of questioning, it turned out her friend’s friend was none other than Ree Drummond! The friend, unfamiliar with the culinary world, was oblivious to the Pioneer Woman’s widespread fame. The story culminates in the blogger meeting Ree Drummond at a conference and sharing a laugh about their mutual friend. This personal touch adds a layer of charm and relatability to the recipe, making it more than just instructions – it’s a story connected to a beloved food personality.
Mastering Your Pioneer Woman Smashed Potatoes: Ingredients & Technique
Let’s dive into what you’ll need and how to make these delectable Pioneer Woman smashed potatoes. The ingredient list is short and sweet, focusing on fresh flavors that come together beautifully.
Ingredients:
- Red Potatoes: 12 small to medium red potatoes, these hold their shape well and become wonderfully creamy when boiled and smashed.
- Kosher Salt or Sea Salt: ½ teaspoon, plus more for boiling water and sprinkling. The star seasoning that brings out all the flavors.
- Ground Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon, for a touch of spice.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon, plus more for drizzling and brushing. Essential for crispy edges and flavor.
- Dried Basil Leaves: ½ teaspoon, adds a sweet, aromatic herb note.
- Dried Thyme Leaves: ½ teaspoon, provides an earthy, slightly minty flavor.
- Dried Rosemary: ½ teaspoon, offers a piney, robust herbal dimension.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Boil the Potatoes: Fill a large pot halfway with water and bring to a rolling boil. Generously salt the boiling water – this is key to seasoning the potatoes from the inside. Add the red potatoes and boil for about 15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. They should be easily pierced with a fork but not mushy.
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Drizzle olive oil onto a baking sheet and spread it evenly with your hand or a paper towel. This prevents sticking and promotes crispy bottoms.
- Smash the Potatoes: Arrange the boiled potatoes on the oiled baking sheet, giving them some space. Using a potato masher or a sturdy fork, gently press down on each potato to smash it to about half its original thickness. Be careful not to flatten them completely; you want some texture.
- Season and Roast: Drizzle more olive oil over the smashed potatoes, then use a basting brush to ensure each potato is coated. Sprinkle generously with kosher salt, black pepper, dried basil, thyme, and rosemary.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on top. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, as oven temperatures can vary.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and serve immediately. These Pioneer Woman smashed potatoes are best enjoyed hot and fresh, when they are at their crispiest.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
These Pioneer Woman smashed potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair well with a wide range of dishes. Here are a few serving ideas:
- Classic Pairings: Serve them alongside grilled steak, roasted chicken, or pork chops for a hearty and satisfying meal.
- Burger Buddy: They make an excellent alternative to fries with burgers or sandwiches.
- Holiday Side: These smashed potatoes would be a welcome addition to any holiday feast, adding a rustic and flavorful touch.
- Topping Ideas: While delicious on their own, consider topping them with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor dimensions.
Recipe Variations:
- Garlic Herb Smashed Potatoes: Add a clove or two of minced garlic to the herb mixture for a garlicky twist.
- Cheesy Smashed Potatoes: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese over the potatoes during the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy melt.
- Spicy Smashed Potatoes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb mixture for a little heat.
- Fresh Herb Boost: Incorporate fresh herbs like chopped parsley, chives, or oregano after baking for a burst of fresh flavor.
Tips for the Best Smashed Potatoes
- Don’t Overboil: Boil the potatoes until fork-tender but not mushy. Overcooked potatoes can become too soft and won’t smash as nicely.
- Generous Seasoning: Don’t be shy with the salt and herbs! They are what make these smashed potatoes so flavorful.
- Hot Oven is Key: A high oven temperature is crucial for achieving crispy edges. Make sure your oven is properly preheated.
- Space Them Out: Give the potatoes some space on the baking sheet so they roast and crisp up instead of steaming.
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to adjust the herbs to your liking. Italian seasoning, Herbs de Provence, or even just rosemary and garlic would be delicious.
Conclusion: Pioneer Woman Smashed Potatoes – A Must-Try Recipe
If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both easy to make and incredibly flavorful, look no further than these Pioneer Woman smashed potatoes. Inspired by Ree Drummond’s signature style, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of crispy edges, creamy insides, and savory herbs is simply irresistible. Give this recipe a try and elevate your next meal with the best smashed potatoes you’ve ever tasted!
For more delicious recipes and culinary inspiration, be sure to check out The Pioneer Woman’s Blog. And if you love potatoes as much as we do, explore more potato recipes here on Pioneer Technology!
