Introduction

Loaded Smashed Potatoes Recipe are the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy, golden potatoes with gooey, melty cheese, savory turkey bacon, and a dollop of creamy sour cream. Each bite is a perfect balance of crunchy edges, fluffy centers, and rich, indulgent toppings. This dish takes the humble potato and transforms it into a show-stopping side perfect for any occasion, from game nights to holiday dinners and backyard BBQs.

The first time I made Loaded Smashed Potatoes, I was amazed by how simple yet satisfying they were. Smashing the potatoes after boiling them felt so rewarding, especially as I watched them crisp up beautifully in the oven. The kitchen was filled with the warm, comforting aroma of roasted potatoes, and when I added the melted cheese and turkey bacon, the scent became completely irresistible.

What I love most about Loaded Smashed Potatoes is their versatility. They’re perfect as a side dish, but they’re also hearty enough to stand alone as a snack or even a light meal. Plus, they’re easy to customize—swap the turkey bacon for caramelized onions, sprinkle with chives, or add a drizzle of ranch dressing for an extra layer of flavor. Whether served straight from the oven or reheated the next day, they never fail to deliver a cozy, satisfying bite.

Perfect for:

Holiday feasts
BBQ cookouts
Game day snacks
Family dinners
Potluck parties

Why You’ll Love This Loaded Smashed Potatoes Recipe

Crispy Yet Fluffy: These potatoes have a perfectly crispy exterior while staying fluffy and tender on the inside.
Easy to Make: This recipe is simple with minimal prep time, yet the results are impressive enough for special occasions.
Customizable: Easily swap out toppings for endless variations to suit your preferences.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the cheesy, crispy goodness of these potatoes.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for a casual dinner or a festive holiday spread, these potatoes fit any menu.
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the potatoes ahead of time and add toppings just before serving.
Savory and Satisfying: Loaded with rich flavors like turkey bacon, cheese, and sour cream, they’re hearty and comforting.
Crowd-Pleasing: These potatoes are always a hit at parties and gatherings.
Balanced Flavors: The blend of savory potatoes, creamy toppings, and smoky turkey bacon makes for a delicious balance.
Great for Leftovers: Reheat leftovers easily, and they taste just as good the next day!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 50 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories per Serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 12g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

2 lbs baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
6 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
⅓ cup sour cream
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup green onions, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Ingredient Highlights:

Baby Potatoes: Their small size ensures a tender interior and crispy edges.
Turkey Bacon: A leaner alternative to pork bacon, offering the same smoky crunch.
Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a sharp, tangy contrast.
Sour Cream: Provides creaminess and a slight tang that balances the richness.
Olive Oil: Essential for achieving that perfect golden, crispy finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes:

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly and place them in a large pot of salted water.
Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and let cool slightly.

2. Smash the Potatoes:

Place the drained potatoes on a lined baking sheet.
Using the bottom of a glass or potato masher, gently press down on each potato to flatten them to about ½ inch thickness.

3. Season and Bake:

Drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes.
Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.

4. Add the Toppings:

Remove the potatoes from the oven and immediately sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over each potato.
Return the tray to the oven for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Finish with Toppings:

Remove from the oven and top with crumbled turkey bacon, dollops of sour cream, chopped green onions, and parsley.
Drizzle melted butter over the potatoes for extra richness.

How to Serve Loaded Smashed Potatoes Recipe

As a Side Dish: Perfect alongside grilled chicken, beef steaks, or roasted veggies.
For Game Night: Serve on a platter for a crowd-pleasing snack during the big game.
With Dipping Sauces: Offer ranch, blue cheese, or spicy mayo for extra fun.
Holiday Spread: Add to your Thanksgiving or Christmas menu for a festive twist.
Brunch Addition: Pair with eggs and a fresh salad for a hearty brunch plate.
Taco Night Twist: Use them as a unique alternative to nachos with guacamole and salsa.
With Soups and Stews: Serve alongside chili or beef stew for a comforting meal.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions.
Mini Appetizers: Use smaller potatoes for bite-sized party snacks.
Family Movie Night: Serve with popcorn and snacks for a cozy movie night treat.

Additional Tips for Loaded Smashed Potatoes Recipe

Choose the Right Potatoes: Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes for the best texture.
Boil Until Just Tender: Avoid overcooking the potatoes, as they can fall apart when smashed.
Crispy Edges: Make sure the oven is fully preheated to achieve maximum crispiness.
Season Generously: Don’t forget to salt the water while boiling and season the potatoes well before baking.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and green onions elevate the flavor beautifully.
Add Spice: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Keep Warm: Keep the potatoes warm in the oven at 200°F if preparing them ahead of time.
Make it Healthier: Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a protein boost.
Batch Cooking: Double the recipe for larger gatherings or meal prep.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to keep them crispy.

Recipe Variations for Loaded Smashed Potatoes Recipe

Buffalo Style: Drizzle buffalo sauce over the potatoes and top with blue cheese crumbles.
Loaded Sweet Potatoes: Swap baby potatoes for sweet potatoes for a sweeter version.
Vegan Option: Use vegan cheese and coconut-based sour cream for a plant-based twist.
Spicy Jalapeño: Add sliced jalapeños on top for a spicy kick.
BBQ Ranch: Top with BBQ sauce and ranch dressing for a tangy twist.
Garlic Parmesan: Mix Parmesan cheese and minced garlic with the olive oil before baking.
Mediterranean Style: Use feta cheese, olives, and tzatziki instead of sour cream.
Taco Loaded: Add seasoned ground beef, salsa, and guacamole for a taco-inspired dish.
Pesto Drizzle: Drizzle pesto over the top instead of butter for a herby flavor.
Caprese Style: Top with mozzarella, tomatoes, and a balsamic glaze drizzle.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze the smashed potatoes without toppings. Reheat and add toppings just before serving.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes until crispy again.

Special Equipment for Loaded Smashed Potatoes Recipe

Large Pot: For boiling the potatoes.
Baking Sheet: A heavy-duty sheet ensures even crisping.
Potato Masher or Glass: To smash the potatoes.
Cheese Grater: For freshly grated cheddar cheese.
Sharp Knife: For chopping herbs and bacon.
Mixing Bowls: For tossing the potatoes with seasoning.
Oven Mitts: Essential for safely handling hot trays.
Cooling Rack: Allows for airflow to keep potatoes crispy.
Tongs: Useful for flipping and serving.

FAQ Section for Loaded Smashed Potatoes Recipe

Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, boil and smash the potatoes in advance, then bake with toppings when ready to serve.
What type of potatoes work best?
Baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best for this recipe due to their creamy texture.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon works great for a leaner option while still adding savory flavor.
How do I make them crispier?
Ensure the oven is fully preheated and don’t overcrowd the baking sheet.

Conclusion

Loaded Smashed Potatoes are the perfect balance of crispy, cheesy, and savory flavors that everyone will love. With their golden, crunchy edges and a soft, fluffy center, they’re topped with melted cheese, crispy turkey bacon, and a sprinkle of green onions for the ultimate comfort food experience. Whether served as a snack, side dish, or appetizer, they’re sure to become a family favorite.

Perfect for game day, holiday gatherings, or casual dinners, these loaded smashed potatoes are easy to make and completely customizable. You can mix and match your favorite toppings for endless variations, making them a versatile dish everyone can enjoy.

I can’t wait to see your loaded smashed potato creations! Be sure to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see how you bring this comforting dish to life! Don’t forget to leave a comment and share how you made it your own. Happy cooking!