Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes

Crispy, buttery baby potatoes smashed and seared to perfection on the Blackstone griddle make for a delightful side dish. Our Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes are ideal for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also packed with flavor and versatility, allowing you to customize toppings to match your mood or theme.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of crispy potatoes, melted cheese, and savory toppings makes every bite irresistible.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to mix and match your favorite toppings like sour cream, fresh herbs, or even avocado for a unique twist.
• Perfect for Sharing: These loaded smashed potatoes are a crowd-pleaser, making them great for parties or potlucks.
• Griddle Perfection: Cooking on a Blackstone griddle ensures even crispiness that can’t be achieved in a regular pan.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather these essential tools to make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Blackstone griddle
• Large pot for boiling
• Strainer
• Spatula or burger press
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Blackstone griddle: Provides an expansive cooking surface that allows for even heating and crisping.
• Large pot for boiling: Ensures that all the potatoes can cook evenly without overcrowding.
• Spatula or burger press: Helps achieve that perfect smash on each potato, ensuring a crispy exterior.

Ingredients

To create delicious Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Potatoes

• 2 pounds baby potatoes
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon sea salt

For Toppings

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup bacon bits (substitute with turkey bacon bits if desired)
• Sour cream
• Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish

How to Make Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

1. Boil the baby potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, approximately 15–20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and allow them to cool slightly.

Step 2: Preheat Your Griddle

1. Preheat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat while prepping your ingredients.

Step 3: Prepare the Potato Mixture

1. Toss the cooled potatoes in olive oil, garlic powder, and sea salt until evenly coated.

Step 4: Smash the Potatoes

1. Melt butter directly on the preheated griddle.
2. Place the potatoes on the griddle.
3. Gently smash each potato with a spatula or burger press until they are flattened but still intact.

Step 5: Cook Until Crispy

1. Cook the smashed potatoes for about 5–7 minutes until they become crispy on one side.
2. Flip each potato over.
3. Top each one with shredded cheddar cheese and bacon bits (or turkey bacon bits).

Step 6: Finish Cooking

1. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese has melted and the potatoes are golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

1. Remove from heat and garnish with sour cream and fresh herbs as desired.
2. Serve hot as a delicious side dish that everyone’s sure to love!

How to Serve Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes

Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes make a fantastic side dish that pairs well with various main courses. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Classic Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy texture and balances the flavors.
• Chives: Freshly chopped chives bring a mild onion flavor that complements the potatoes perfectly.

Add-Ons for Extra Flavor

• Shredded Chicken: For a protein boost, top with shredded chicken seasoned with spices.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds richness and pairs well with the crispy potatoes.

Pairing Suggestions

• Grilled Vegetables: Charred vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate.
• Steak or Grilled Chicken: These hearty proteins make for a satisfying meal when served alongside loaded smashed potatoes.

How to Perfect Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes

Achieving the perfect Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes is all about technique and timing. Here are some helpful tips.

• Choose the right potatoes: Baby potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape well after boiling and smashing.
• Don’t skip the boiling step: Boiling ensures that the potatoes are tender inside, leading to a perfect texture when smashed.
• Use enough oil: A good amount of olive oil helps achieve that crispy exterior you desire on the griddle.
• Smash gently but firmly: The goal is to flatten them without breaking apart entirely; this allows for maximum crispiness.
• Watch the cooking time: Keep an eye on them while cooking; you want them golden brown but not burnt.
• Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to mix in different herbs or spices for unique flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes

When serving Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes, consider complementing them with other delicious sides. Here’s a list of great options:

1. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned with olive oil and garlic, grilled asparagus adds a fresh crunch.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in balsamic vinegar, these sprouts bring a tasty caramelized flavor.
3. Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad made with seasonal greens provides a nice contrast to the rich potatoes.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a juicy sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory flavors.
5. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread makes for an indulgent side that everyone loves.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Filled with quinoa or rice, these peppers offer a colorful and nutritious addition to your meal.
7. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can cut through the richness of the loaded potatoes, adding crunch and flavor.
8. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Light and fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs rounds out your dinner nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Smashed potatoes are simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid when making Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes.

• Not Boiling the Potatoes Enough: Ensure your potatoes are fork-tender before smashing. Under-cooked potatoes will be hard and difficult to smash properly.

• Overcrowding the Griddle: If you place too many potatoes on the griddle at once, they won’t crisp up well. Give each potato space for that perfect golden crust.

• Skipping Seasoning: Failing to season your potatoes adequately can lead to bland flavors. Coat them evenly with olive oil, garlic powder, and sea salt for maximum taste.

• Using Low Heat: Cooking at too low of a temperature can result in soggy potatoes instead of crispy ones. Preheat the Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat for optimal cooking.

• Ignoring Toppings: While cheese and bacon bits are delicious, don’t forget other toppings like sour cream or fresh herbs. They add flavor and freshness that enhance the dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow them to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1–2 hours before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Place potatoes on a baking sheet and heat for about 15–20 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.

• Microwave: Place potatoes on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second increments until hot, but know they may lose their crispiness.

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil. This method helps restore some crispiness while reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes that may help you perfect this dish.

Can I use any type of potato?

Yes, while baby potatoes are ideal for their size and creaminess, you can use larger ones like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just cut them into smaller pieces before boiling.

How do I make Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes vegan?

You can substitute butter with plant-based margarine and skip bacon bits or replace them with plant-based alternatives for a delicious vegan version.

What toppings go well with Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes?

You can customize your toppings! Besides cheese and bacon bits, consider adding green onions, jalapeños, or even guacamole for extra flavor.

How do I achieve extra crispy potatoes?

For crispier results, ensure your griddle is well-preheated and use enough oil when cooking. You can also smash them more thinly if you prefer crunchier edges.

Can I prepare the ingredients ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can boil the potatoes ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Just make sure they are cooled completely first.

Final Thoughts

Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes offer a delightful combination of crispy texture and rich flavors that make them an excellent side dish for any meal. Their versatility allows you to customize toppings based on your preferences or dietary needs. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!