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Garlic-Smashed Potatoes

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

These garlic-smashed potatoes offer a wonderful contrast in textures, pairing a crisp, golden exterior with a fluffy, tender middle. By boiling the potatoes with whole garlic cloves, you infuse them with a mellow, aromatic flavour before they are crushed and grilled to perfection. The addition of melted butter and a drizzle of olive oil ensures every crevice becomes beautifully crunchy under the grill, making them a standout side dish for any roast or savoury main course.

This simple vegetarian dish is an excellent alternative to traditional roast potatoes or mash. The finishing touch of chilled soured cream and snipped fresh chives adds a bright, tangy lift that balances the richness of the butter. Whether you are serving a Sunday lunch or looking for a comforting midweek accompaniment, these homemade smashed potatoes are sure to become a new family favourite.

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Ingredients for Garlic-Smashed Potatoes

  • 800g small unpeeled Yukon Gold potatoes (about 16), scrubbed

  • 6 large garlic cloves, peeled

  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

  • 2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) butter

  • 1/2 cup soured cream

  • 45ml chopped fresh chives

How to make Garlic-Smashed Potatoes

Generously butter glass pie dish. Cook potatoes and garlic in medium pot of boiling salted water until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes. Drain; let stand 5 minutes. Discard garlic. Arrange potatoes close together in prepared dish. Using wooden spoon, smash potatoes coarsely until they split open. Drizzle with oil; dot with butter. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Preheat grill. Grill potatoes until crisp and golden, watching closely to avoid burning, 8 to 10 minutes. Top with dollops of soured cream; sprinkle with chives.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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