Crash Hot Potatoes Recipe

Introduction to Crash Hot Potatoes

Crash hot potatoes are one of the most delightful side dishes to serve alongside hearty meals. This recipe, courtesy of The Pioneer Woman, offers a simple yet ingenious twist on traditional baked potatoes. The process involves boiling potatoes until tender, then smashing them to create a crispy exterior while maintaining a fluffy interior.

## Ingredients
–

12 whole new potatoes

(or other small round potatoes)
–

3 tablespoons olive oil

–

Kosher salt

, to taste
–

Black pepper

, to taste
–

Rosemary

(or other herbs of choice), to taste
–

Parmesan cheese

, finely grated (optional)

## Instructions
1.

Preheat the Oven

: Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2.

Boil the Potatoes

: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the potatoes and cook until they are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
3.

Smash the Potatoes

: Drizzle olive oil onto a baking sheet. Place the boiled potatoes on the sheet, leaving space between each. Use a potato masher or the bottom of a glass to gently press down on each potato, compressing it slightly. Rotate the masher 90 degrees and mash again to create a crisscross pattern.
4.

Season and Bake

: Drizzle the tops of the potatoes with more olive oil. Sprinkle with kosher salt, black pepper, and chopped rosemary. If using parmesan, sprinkle it over the potatoes. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the tops are golden brown and crispy.

## Variations
Loaded Crash Hots
For a more indulgent version, consider adding:
–

Thick-cut bacon

: Cooked until crispy and crumbled over the potatoes.
–

Shredded Cheddar cheese

: Sprinkled over the potatoes during the last few minutes of baking.
–

Sour cream and chives

: A dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chives on top after baking.

Why Crash Hot Potatoes Are a Kitchen Staple

Crash hot potatoes embody the perfect balance of texture and flavor, making them a versatile side dish for any meal. They combine the crispy delight of french fries with the softness of a baked potato. This simplicity is part of their charm, as they can be prepared with minimal ingredients and effort.

## Benefits of Using Small Potatoes
–

Easier to Cook

: Small potatoes cook faster and are less likely to become overcooked.
–

Better Texture

: They maintain a higher moisture content, resulting in a fluffier interior upon smashing.
–

Crispiness

: The surface area of smaller potatoes allows for a crisper exterior when baked.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What types of potatoes are best for crash hot potatoes?

A: New potatoes or small round potatoes are ideal due to their moisture content and ability to hold their shape.

Q: How can I ensure my potatoes are extra crispy?

A: Use a generous amount of olive oil, and ensure the potatoes are not crowded on the baking sheet to allow for even crisping.

Q: Can I use different herbs in place of rosemary?

A: Yes, you can use chives, thyme, or other herbs of your choice to add flavor to the potatoes.

Conclusion

Crash hot potatoes offer a delightful twist on traditional potato dishes, combining the best of both worlds in terms of texture and flavor. Whether served as a side on their own or loaded with additional toppings like bacon and cheese, these potatoes are sure to become a favorite in your household.