Have you ever wondered how to transform simple baby potatoes into a crispy, golden side dish that steals the show at dinner? The secret lies in a three-step process that creates the perfect contrast of textures: boil, smash, and bake. These thyme-kissed smashed baby potatoes deliver crispy edges, fluffy centers, and an irresistible herb-infused flavor that will have you coming back for seconds.

Beyond their incredible taste, these potatoes pack a nutritional punch that makes them perfect for anyone focused on healthy eating. As someone on a body recomposition journey, I've discovered that baby potatoes are an excellent source of fiber—something crucial when you're working toward sustainable fat loss while maintaining muscle mass. The fiber content helps keep you satisfied longer, supports digestive health, and provides steady energy for your workouts.

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What Makes Baby Potatoes Special?

Baby potatoes, also known as new potatoes or fingerling potatoes, are simply potatoes harvested before they reach full maturity. Their small size isn't just adorable—it's practical. These petite spuds have thin, tender skins that become perfectly crispy when baked, eliminating the need for peeling.

The nutritional benefits of baby potatoes extend far beyond their fiber content. They're rich in potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6, while remaining naturally fat-free and relatively low in calories. A serving of baby potatoes provides about 3 grams of fiber, which is particularly valuable when you're managing your nutrition for body composition goals.

Their naturally creamy texture and mild flavor make them the perfect canvas for herbs and seasonings. Unlike larger potatoes that can become mushy when boiled, baby potatoes maintain their structure throughout the cooking process.

The Magic Behind Boil, Smash, and Bake

This cooking method might seem unconventional, but each step serves a specific purpose in creating the ultimate potato experience.

Boiling the potatoes first ensures they're tender throughout. This step cooks them completely, so the oven time focuses purely on creating that coveted crispy exterior. The initial boiling also helps the potatoes absorb the salt from the cooking water, seasoning them from the inside out.

Smashing breaks the surface and creates irregular edges that become incredibly crispy in the oven. These broken surfaces provide more area for browning and allow the seasonings to penetrate deeper into the potato. The contrast between the crispy exterior and fluffy interior is what makes these potatoes truly special.

The final baking step transforms the smashed potatoes into golden, crispy perfection. The high heat creates a beautiful crust while the herbs infuse their aromatic oils throughout.

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Ingredients You'll Need

For the Potatoes:

2 pounds small baby potatoes (about 1-2 inches in diameter)
2 tablespoons kosher salt (for boiling water)
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tablespoon dried thyme)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra color)

Optional Garnishes:

Fresh thyme sprigs
Flaky sea salt
Grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh lemon zest

Choose potatoes that are similar in size for even cooking. Look for firm potatoes without soft spots or green areas. Yukon Gold, red potatoes, or fingerling varieties work beautifully for this recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Boil the Potatoes

Fill a large pot with water and add the 2 tablespoons of kosher salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat. While the water heats, rinse the baby potatoes under cold water and gently scrub away any dirt. Leave the skins on—they're not only edible but essential for the final texture.

Add the potatoes to the boiling water and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until they're fork-tender. You should be able to pierce them easily with a fork, but they shouldn't fall apart. The exact cooking time depends on the size of your potatoes.

Step 2: Drain and Cool

Drain the potatoes in a colander and let them cool for about 10 minutes. This cooling period makes them easier to handle and helps them hold their shape during smashing. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Step 3: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. If you have a large batch, use two baking sheets to avoid overcrowding.

Step 4: Smash the Potatoes

Place the cooled potatoes on your prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one. Using a potato masher, large fork, or the bottom of a glass, gently press down on each potato until it's flattened to about 1/2 inch thick. Don't worry if they break apart slightly—those irregular edges will become deliciously crispy.

Step 5: Season Generously

Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil, making sure to get oil into all the crevices. Sprinkle with sea salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and fresh thyme leaves. The paprika adds a beautiful color and subtle smoky flavor if you choose to use it.

Gently rub the seasonings into the potatoes with your hands, ensuring even coverage. Don't be afraid to be generous with the seasonings—the potatoes can handle it.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy. The tops should look dry and slightly darkened. For extra crispiness, switch to the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Thyme-Kissed Smashed Baby Potatoes Recipe

Yield: 6

Author: Angie Bloom

Prep time: 25 MinCook time: 25 MinTotal time: 50 Min

Learn how to make crispy smashed baby potatoes with thyme! High-fiber, nutritious side dish perfect for healthy eating and body recomposition goals.

Cook modePrevent screen from turning off

Ingredients

2 pounds small baby potatoes (about 1-2 inches in diameter)
2 tablespoons kosher salt (for boiling water)
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tablespoon dried thyme)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra color)

Optional Garnishes

Fresh thyme sprigs
Flaky sea salt
Grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh lemon zest

Instructions

Prepare and Boil the Potatoes - Fill a large pot with water and add the 2 tablespoons of kosher salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat. While the water heats, rinse the baby potatoes under cold water and gently scrub away any dirt. Leave the skins on—they're not only edible but essential for the final texture.
Add the potatoes to the boiling water and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until they're fork-tender. You should be able to pierce them easily with a fork, but they shouldn't fall apart. The exact cooking time depends on the size of your potatoes.
Drain and Cool - Drain the potatoes in a colander and let them cool for about 10 minutes. This cooling period makes them easier to handle and helps them hold their shape during smashing. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Prepare Your Baking Sheet - Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. If you have a large batch, use two baking sheets to avoid overcrowding.
Smash the Potatoes - Place the cooled potatoes on your prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one. Using a potato masher, large fork, or the bottom of a glass, gently press down on each potato until it's flattened to about 1/2 inch thick. Don't worry if they break apart slightly—those irregular edges will become deliciously crispy.
Season Generously - Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil, making sure to get oil into all the crevices. Sprinkle with sea salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and fresh thyme leaves. The paprika adds a beautiful color and subtle smoky flavor if you choose to use it.
Gently rub the seasonings into the potatoes with your hands, ensuring even coverage. Don't be afraid to be generous with the seasonings—the potatoes can handle it.
Bake to Perfection - Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy. The tops should look dry and slightly darkened. For extra crispiness, switch to the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Recommended Products

Silicone Spatulas

Caraway Baking Pan 9

Silicone Brush

Nutrition Facts

Calories

205

Fat

9 g

Sat. Fat

2 g

Carbs

28 g

Fiber

4 g

Net carbs

25 g

Sugar

1 g

Protein

5 g

Sodium

2843 mg

Cholesterol

4 mg

The nutrition information provided is only estimated based on an online nutritional calculator. I am not a dietician. Please consult a doctor for accurate, more personal information about your health and any dietary restrictions and concerns you may have.

Creative Seasoning Combinations

While thyme creates a classic, aromatic flavor, these smashed potatoes are incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious variations to try:

Mediterranean Style: Replace thyme with oregano, add crumbled feta cheese, and finish with lemon zest and chopped fresh parsley.

Spicy Southwest: Use cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.

Herb Garden: Combine rosemary, sage, and thyme with a touch of lemon zest for an earthy, bright flavor.

Garlic Parmesan: Double the garlic, add grated Parmesan cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking, and finish with fresh basil.

Indian-Inspired: Season with turmeric, cumin, coriander, and a pinch of garam masala. Garnish with fresh mint and a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions

These thyme kissed smashed baby potatoes complement virtually any main dish. They're substantial enough to serve alongside lighter proteins like grilled chicken or fish, yet refined enough for special occasions.

For a complete meal, pair them with roasted vegetables and your protein of choice. They're particularly delicious with herb-crusted salmon, grilled steak, or roasted chicken thighs. The crispy texture provides a wonderful contrast to tender meats.

These potatoes also shine in vegetarian meals. Serve them alongside a fresh green salad, roasted Brussels sprouts, or steamed broccoli for a satisfying, fiber-rich dinner that supports your health goals.

For entertaining, arrange them on a large platter and provide small bowls of different dipping sauces—herb aioli, spicy mayo, or even a simple yogurt-based dip with fresh herbs.

Why These Potatoes Fit My Wellness Journey

As I shared in my recent post about My Body Recomposition Journey, finding foods that are both nutritious and satisfying has been crucial to my success. These smashed baby potatoes check all the boxes.

The fiber content helps me stay satisfied between meals, which is essential when managing calories for fat loss. Unlike restrictive diets that eliminate entire food groups, I've found that including nutrient-dense carbohydrates like these potatoes actually supports my goals. They provide the energy I need for strength training while keeping me satisfied.

The preparation method—using olive oil rather than butter or heavy cream—keeps them aligned with my nutrition goals without sacrificing flavor. The herbs provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, while the potatoes themselves offer essential minerals that support recovery and overall health.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These potatoes are best enjoyed fresh from the oven when they're at their crispiest. However, leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.

To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and warm in a 375°F oven for 10-15 minutes. This helps restore some of the crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this will make them soggy.

You can also prep components ahead of time. Boil and smash the potatoes up to a day in advance, then store them covered in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply add the seasonings and bake as directed.

Making These Potatoes Your Own

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Don't have fresh thyme? Dried herbs work perfectly—just use about half the amount. Prefer a different oil? Avocado oil or melted ghee are excellent substitutes for olive oil.

For those following specific dietary approaches, these potatoes are naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan. They can easily be incorporated into paleo or Whole30 meal plans by ensuring your seasonings comply with those guidelines.

Your New Go-To Side Dish

These thyme-kissed smashed baby potatoes prove that simple ingredients, when treated with care and creativity, can create something truly special. The combination of textures—crispy, golden edges giving way to fluffy, seasoned centers—makes every bite satisfying.

Whether you're meal prepping for the week, hosting a dinner party, or simply wanting to elevate your weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers. The high fiber content supports your wellness goals, while the incredible flavor ensures you'll never feel deprived.

Next time you're looking for a side dish that's both nutritious and indulgent, remember these golden, herb-scented potatoes. They're proof that eating well doesn't mean sacrificing the foods you love—it just means preparing them thoughtfully.

We’d love to see your creations! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag us at @angiebloom. Have questions, or want to share your favorite add-ins? Drop a comment below or connect with us via email.

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