When I think of comfort food, Honey Butter Smashed Potatoes always come to mind.
These little gems are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making them a delightful side dish for any meal.
Whether you’re hosting a weekend barbecue or just looking for a quick solution after a long day, this recipe is a winner.
The best part? They’re easy to whip up and will impress your loved ones.
With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll create a dish that’s not only delicious but also brings a warm, homey feeling to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Honey Butter Smashed Potatoes
These Honey Butter Smashed Potatoes are a game-changer for any home cook.
They come together in under an hour, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
The combination of sweet honey and rich butter creates a flavor explosion that pairs beautifully with any main dish.
Plus, they’re a hit with both kids and adults, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy and satisfied.
Ingredients for Honey Butter Smashed Potatoes
To create these delightful Honey Butter Smashed Potatoes, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor.
Baby Potatoes: These small, tender potatoes are perfect for smashing. Their creamy texture makes them ideal for soaking up the honey butter.
Unsalted Butter: This adds richness and a velvety mouthfeel. Using unsalted allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.
Honey: The star of the show! Honey brings a natural sweetness that balances the savory elements beautifully.
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of this adds depth and a hint of warmth without overpowering the dish.
Salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors. It’s the magic ingredient that ties everything together.
Black Pepper: Just a dash adds a subtle kick, elevating the overall taste.
Paprika: This gives a touch of smokiness and a lovely color to the potatoes.
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of this vibrant herb not only adds color but also a fresh, bright flavor as a garnish.
For those looking to mix things up, consider adding crumbled bacon for a savory crunch or swapping honey for maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
Exact quantities for each ingredient can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Honey Butter Smashed Potatoes
Making Honey Butter Smashed Potatoes is a straightforward process that yields delicious results.
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a side dish that steals the show!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C).
This step is crucial because it ensures even cooking and helps achieve that crispy texture we all love.
A hot oven will give your potatoes a beautiful golden finish.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt.
Place them in a large pot and cover with water, adding a pinch of salt.
Bring the water to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes.
You want them fork-tender, which means a fork should easily pierce through without falling apart.
Step 3: Smash the Potatoes
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and let them cool slightly.
On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, arrange the potatoes in a single layer.
Using a potato masher or the bottom of a glass, gently smash each potato until it’s flattened but still intact.
This technique creates a perfect surface for the honey butter to soak in.
Step 4: Make the Honey Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, honey, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Stir until well combined.
This honey butter mixture is where the magic happens, blending sweet and savory flavors that will elevate your potatoes.
Step 5: Brush and Bake
Generously brush the honey butter mixture over each smashed potato.
Make sure to cover them well for maximum flavor.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden brown.
Keep an eye on them; you want that perfect crunch!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, remove the potatoes and let them cool for a minute.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve these Honey Butter Smashed Potatoes warm, and watch them disappear from the table!
Tips for Success
Choose uniform-sized baby potatoes for even cooking.
Don’t skip the cooling step after boiling; it helps with smashing.
For extra flavor, let the honey butter mixture sit for a few minutes before brushing.
Experiment with spices; a pinch of cayenne can add a nice kick!
Serve immediately for the best texture; they’re best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.
Equipment Needed
Large Pot: For boiling the potatoes. A Dutch oven works well too.
Baking Sheet: A standard baking sheet is perfect. Line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Potato Masher: Essential for smashing. The bottom of a sturdy glass can be a great alternative.
Mixing Bowl: For combining the honey butter mixture. Any medium-sized bowl will do.
Variations
Cheesy Delight: Add shredded cheese, like cheddar or parmesan, on top of the potatoes before baking for a gooey, cheesy twist.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the honey butter for an aromatic flavor boost.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the honey butter for a spicy version.
Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with vegan butter and use agave syrup instead of honey for a plant-based alternative.
Sweet Potato Variation: Swap baby potatoes for sweet potatoes for a naturally sweeter and colorful dish.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these Honey Butter Smashed Potatoes with grilled chicken or steak for a hearty meal.
Serve alongside a fresh garden salad to balance the richness.
For drinks, consider a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea.
Presentation tip: Serve in a rustic bowl, garnished with extra parsley for a pop of color.
FAQs about Honey Butter Smashed Potatoes
Can I make Honey Butter Smashed Potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the potatoes and smash them ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge after boiling. When you’re ready to serve, brush on the honey butter and bake them fresh for that crispy finish.
What can I substitute for honey in this recipe?
If you’re looking for a different sweetness profile, maple syrup works wonderfully as a substitute for honey. It adds a unique flavor that pairs nicely with the savory elements of the dish.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Honey Butter Smashed Potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven to regain that crispy texture.
Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Yes, you can use larger potatoes! Just cut them into smaller chunks before boiling to ensure they cook evenly. The smashing technique will still work beautifully.
What main dishes pair well with Honey Butter Smashed Potatoes?
These potatoes are incredibly versatile! They pair excellently with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even a hearty vegetarian dish like stuffed bell peppers. The sweet and savory flavors complement a variety of meals.
Final Thoughts
Creating Honey Butter Smashed Potatoes is more than just cooking; it’s about bringing joy to the table.
The sweet and savory combination dances on your palate, making every bite a delightful experience.
Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying them solo after a long day, these potatoes have a way of making any meal feel special.
They’re not just a side dish; they’re a conversation starter, a comfort food that warms the heart.
So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and let these Honey Butter Smashed Potatoes become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire!
Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly and place them in a large pot. Cover with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, arrange the potatoes in a single layer. Using a potato masher or the bottom of a glass, gently smash each potato until flattened but still intact.
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, honey, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Brush the honey butter mixture generously over the smashed potatoes.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden brown.
Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
For a twist, try adding crumbled bacon on top before baking for extra flavor.
You can also substitute maple syrup for honey for a different sweetness profile.
