Name: Crispy Smashed Potato Salad That Elevates Your BBQ Game
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Baby Potatoes (Use baby red potatoes for a firmer bite.); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Extra virgin for enhanced flavor.); 1 cup Greek Yogurt (Opt for full-fat for best richness.); 1/4 cup Kewpie Mayonnaise (Regular mayo can also be used.); 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard (Provides a tangy kick.); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Fresh lemon juice is recommended.); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced for flavor.); 1 small Shallot (Minced for aromatic depth.); 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (Can swap for dill.); 1/3 cup Dill Pickle (Diced for a briny twist.); 2 tablespoons Scallions (Optional garnish.)

The aroma of golden, crispy potatoes fills the kitchen as my heart skips a beat—this is what comfort food dreams are made of! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Crispy Smashed Potato Salad, a fun twist on the classic that’s bound to elevate your foodie game. Picture this: creamy, herbed dressing clinging to perfectly roasted smashed potatoes, punctuated by crunchy pickles and a hint of tang. Not only is this potato salad an absolute crowd-pleaser for gatherings and BBQs, but it also comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy weekends or spontaneous get-togethers. So, are you ready to transform your potato salad experience? Let’s dive into this crunchy delight!

Why is this potato salad different?

Uniquely Crunchy: This isn’t your typical potato salad; the crispy smashed potatoes offer a delightful twist that keeps everyone coming back for more!

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, you can whip up this dish in no time—perfect for those spontaneous BBQs or last-minute gatherings.

Versatile Flavor: The creamy dressing combined with tangy pickles and fresh herbs ensures each bite bursts with flavor, making it a standout side dish.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether paired with BBQ ribs or a simple burger, this salad will be the star of your table and is sure to impress your guests!

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare your dressing and potatoes a day ahead, so all you have to do is toss the two together when it’s time to serve—convenient for busy weekends.

Don’t forget to explore other fresh salad ideas, like Napa Chicken Salad or a classic Chef Salad Bright, to round out your meal!

Smashed Potato Salad Ingredients

For the Potatoes
• Baby Potatoes – The star ingredient providing a creamy texture and crispy exterior; baby red potatoes can work for a firmer bite.
• Olive Oil – Used for roasting to achieve a golden, crunchy crust; extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor beautifully.

For the Dressing
• Greek Yogurt – Offers a creamy and tangy base, lighter than traditional dressings; opt for full-fat for the best richness.
• Kewpie Mayonnaise (or Regular Mayo) – Adds richness and flavor; Kewpie delivers a sweeter umami taste that elevates the dish.
• Dijon Mustard – Provides a tangy kick that perfectly complements the creamy dressing.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish with freshness; please opt for fresh lemon juice when possible.
• Garlic and Shallot – For aromatic depth and enticing flavor that rounds out the dressing.

For the Crunch
• Fresh Parsley – Cuts through the richness of the dressing; feel free to swap in dill for a more classic flavor.
• Dill Pickle – Adds a crunchy, briny twist that enhances the dish’s texture; a true game-changer!
• Scallions – An optional garnish that brings subtle onion flavor and a pop of color to your salad.

With these ingredients, your Smashed Potato Salad is bound to be the highlight of any meal!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

Step 1: Boil Potatoes
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil, then add the baby potatoes. Cook for 7-8 minutes until they are fork-tender yet firm. Once done, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly on a baking sheet, paving the way for the next crispy steps.

Step 2: Smash Potatoes
Once cooled, gently smash each potato on the baking sheet until they’re about 1/4 inch thick using the bottom of a sturdy glass or your hand. Drizzle the potatoes generously with olive oil and season them with salt and pepper. This process ensures your smashed potatoes are ready to turn golden and crispy in the oven.

Step 3: Roast Potatoes
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and roast the smashed potatoes for 45-60 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even crisping. Look for a beautiful golden-brown color and a satisfying crunch, which are the hallmarks of perfectly roasted potatoes for your Smashed Potato Salad.

Step 4: Prepare Dressing
While the potatoes are roasting, in a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, Kewpie mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, minced garlic, shallot, diced dill pickle, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Whisk everything together until creamy and well-blended. This luscious dressing will be the perfect complement to your crispy potatoes.

Step 5: Combine
Once the potatoes are out of the oven and slightly cooled, gently toss them in the prepared dressing while still warm. Ensure each potato piece is coated well, preserving some crispy bits for garnishing later. This blend of textures and flavors is what transforms a simple Smashed Potato Salad into a sensational side dish.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Transfer your mixed Smashed Potato Salad to a serving dish, topping it with the reserved crispy potato bits and freshly chopped scallions for an added burst of color. Serve this delightful salad warm to enjoy the creamy, crunchy medley that’s guaranteed to be a hit at your gatherings!

What to Serve with Crispy Smashed Potato Salad

Elevate your meal experience by pairing this delightful salad with side dishes and drinks that enhance its creamy and crunchy profile.

BBQ Ribs: The smoky, savory flavor of BBQ ribs contrasts beautifully with the creamy dressing, making each bite unforgettable.
Grilled Chicken: Simple, juicy grilled chicken offers a tender contrast to the crispy potatoes, bringing hearty satisfaction to the table.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn provides a pop of sweetness and a fun texture that complements every bite of the potato salad.
Cole Slaw: This crunchy, tangy salad adds a refreshing element, balancing the richness of the creamy dressing and making the meal feel lighter.
Crispy Fried Chicken: The golden, crispy exterior of fried chicken harmonizes with the salad’s texture, leading to a mouthwatering feast.
Fresh Tomato Salad: Bright and juicy tomatoes cut through the richness, offering a fresh burst of flavor that beautifully uplifts the whole plate.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: Pair with a glass of refreshing lemonade or iced tea to cleanse the palate, enhancing your summer dining experience.
Dessert Option: Consider serving a light lemon sorbet after dinner to cleanse the palate, leaving guests feeling refreshed after a hearty meal.

Smashed Potato Salad Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your Smashed Potato Salad for a personal touch that will delight your taste buds!

Vegan Twist: Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative and vegan mayo for a completely plant-based dish. This variation remains creamy without sacrificing flavor, making it inclusive for all guests!
Bacon-Infused: Add crumbled crispy bacon for a smoky flavor and an irresistible crunch. The combination of crispy bacon and creamy potatoes brings a delightful richness that elevates the dish to a new level.
Herb Medley: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill, chives, or basil for a flavor boost. Mixing and matching herbs can brighten the salad, giving it a fresh garden taste that’s sure to impress.
Spicy Chipotle: Incorporate a chipotle dressing by adding a bit of chipotle powder or sauce. This spicy twist adds a nice kick that contrasts beautifully with the creamy dressing.
Loaded Potato Style: Go all out by topping your salad with shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions. This decadent option transforms your salad into a hearty side that screams comfort food.
Mediterranean Flair: Mix in chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a zesty Mediterranean take. This variation brings bold flavors that will transport your taste buds to sunny shores.
Pickle Lovers: Increase the dill pickle quantity or add pickle relish for an extra tangy bite. The brininess is a perfect pairing with the creamy dressing and crispy potatoes.

Don’t forget to check out other fresh salad ideas too, such as my Napa Chicken Salad or the colorful Jello Salad Retro, to elevate your side dish offerings!

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Smashed Potato Salad ingredients are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can boil and roast the baby potatoes up to 24 hours in advance—just make sure they cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the fridge, which will help preserve their crispy texture. The creamy dressing can also be prepared ahead and stored separately for up to 3 days in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the potatoes in the oven until they’re crispy again, toss them in the dressing while still warm, and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors without the last-minute rush!

Expert Tips for Smashed Potato Salad

Crispy Finish: Make sure the potatoes are completely dry after boiling; excess moisture can result in soggy smashed potatoes instead of that desired crunch.

Avoid Overcooking: Be careful not to over-boil the potatoes; they should be tender yet firm enough to hold their shape for smashing.

Cornstarch Cure: For an even crunchier texture, lightly coat the smashed potatoes with cornstarch before roasting to enhance their crispiness.

Air Frying Option: If you’re short on time, consider using an air fryer for quickly achieving that crunchy finish on the smashed potatoes; it’s a real game-changer!

Flavor Boost: Feel free to experiment with adding diced celery or crumbled bacon bits into the salad for extra texture and flavor variety in your Smashed Potato Salad.

Storage Tips for Smashed Potato Salad

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Keep in mind that the potatoes may soften slightly over time, but the flavors will still shine.

Freezer: It’s best to avoid freezing this salad as the creamy dressing may separate and affect the texture of the potatoes upon thawing.

Reheating: If you want to enjoy the salad warm, gently reheat in the oven for 10-15 minutes at 350°F, adding a drizzle of olive oil to help revive that crispy texture.

Make-Ahead: For optimal flavor and texture, prepare the dressing and roasted potatoes separately a day in advance. Toss them together just before serving for maximum freshness in your Smashed Potato Salad.

Crispy Smashed Potato Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best baby potatoes for this recipe?
When choosing baby potatoes, look for ones that are smooth, firm, and uniform in size. Avoid any that have dark spots or are wrinkled; these can indicate overripeness. Baby red potatoes are also a great alternative if you’re looking for a firmer texture, enhancing the overall crunch of your Smashed Potato Salad.

How should I store leftover Smashed Potato Salad?
Store your leftover Smashed Potato Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just keep in mind that while the flavors will still shine, the crispy texture of the potatoes may soften over time. To revive it, consider reheating gently in the oven for 10-15 minutes at 350°F while drizzling a little olive oil over the top.

Can I freeze the Smashed Potato Salad?
It’s best not to freeze this salad, as the creamy dressing might separate and the potatoes can change texture once thawed. If you want to prepare in advance, consider freezing just the roasted smashed potatoes. Cool them completely and then place in a freezer bag, where they can last up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw them overnight in the fridge and crisp them up in the oven before adding to the salad.

What should I do if my smashed potatoes aren’t crispy after roasting?
If your potatoes aren’t as crispy as you hoped, a few factors could be in play. Ensure they were fully dried after boiling—excess moisture can hinder crisping. Also, ensure they are being roasted in a single layer on a baking sheet to avoid steaming. For extra crunch, try lightly coating them with cornstarch before roasting or seasoning them with more olive oil to promote browning.

Is this Smashed Potato Salad suitable for people with allergies?
Absolutely! To make this dish allergy-friendly, be mindful of the ingredients you use. For example, replace Greek yogurt and Kewpie mayonnaise with dairy-free alternatives for a vegan version. Always check labels for common allergens like eggs in mayonnaise or gluten in certain seasonings, especially if preparing for guests with specific dietary needs.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! To save time on the day of your gathering, you can prepare the dressing and roast the potatoes a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge, and when you’re ready to serve, toss the cooled potatoes in the dressing for a fresh and flavorful Smashed Potato Salad that maintains that delightful crunch!