Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a mouthwatering side dish that’s sure to impress, Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes is the perfect recipe to try. These crispy, golden potatoes are loaded with all the best toppings—cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and a dollop of sour cream. What makes this recipe stand out is the method of cooking on a Blackstone griddle, which gives the potatoes that irresistible crispy exterior while keeping the inside perfectly tender. This dish is not only easy to make, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser, making it a great choice for family dinners, barbecues, or gatherings.

These loaded smashed potatoes combine the best of both worlds: a crispy crust with the creamy, cheesy goodness of a loaded baked potato. The addition of garlic powder, sea salt, and the rich flavor of butter and olive oil enhances the potatoes’ natural flavor, making each bite more flavorful than the last. Whether you’re serving them alongside steak, grilled chicken, or just enjoying them on their own, these loaded potatoes are sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Crispy and Tender: The Blackstone griddle gives the potatoes a crispy exterior while keeping them soft inside.
2. Loaded with Flavor: Cheese, bacon, and garlic combine for an irresistible taste.
3. Simple Ingredients: Just a few basic ingredients, yet the flavor is next-level.
4. Perfect for Any Meal: Great as a side dish for burgers, grilled meats, or a standalone snack.
5. Customizable: Add or swap toppings to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• Baby potatoes
• Butter
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Sea salt
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Bacon bits

Optional Toppings

• Sour cream
• Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Variations

• Different Cheese: Feel free to swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a blend of your favorite cheeses.
• Add Vegetables: Top with sautéed onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños for extra flavor and color.
• Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the potatoes for a spicy kick.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free butter and cheese for a lactose-free version.
• Herbs: Add a mix of herbs like rosemary or thyme to the potatoes before cooking for extra aroma and flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Preheat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat. While the griddle heats up, wash the baby potatoes thoroughly and cut them in half if desired.

Step 2

Place the baby potatoes in a pot of boiling water and cook until they are fork-tender, about 10–12 minutes.

Step 3

Once cooked, drain the potatoes and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, using the back of a spoon or a potato masher, gently smash each potato to flatten it slightly.

Step 4

Drizzle the olive oil and butter onto the preheated griddle. Add the smashed potatoes and cook for about 4–5 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy.

Step 5

Sprinkle garlic powder and sea salt over the potatoes while they cook, ensuring they are well-seasoned.

Step 6

Once the potatoes are crispy and golden, sprinkle them with shredded cheddar cheese and bacon bits. Let the cheese melt, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 7

Top with sour cream and chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish, if desired, and serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Ensure Even Crisping: Make sure the potatoes are evenly smashed for uniform crispiness on the griddle.
• Use a Good Griddle: A Blackstone griddle is ideal for this recipe due to its even heat distribution, but any large, flat cooking surface will work.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Potatoes: Give the potatoes enough space to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy on all sides.
• Add More Toppings: For extra richness, top with additional ingredients like sautéed onions, jalapeños, or a drizzle of ranch dressing.
• Precook the Potatoes: You can cook the potatoes ahead of time and smash and crisp them when you’re ready to serve.

How to Serve

• Serve alongside grilled steak, burgers, or chicken for a hearty, satisfying meal.
• Pair with a fresh garden salad for a complete dinner.
• These loaded smashed potatoes also make a great appetizer for parties or gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on the griddle or in the microwave.

Freezing

These potatoes can be frozen after cooking. Let them cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to 1 month.

Reheating

To reheat, place the potatoes on a preheated griddle or skillet and cook until warmed through and crispy again. Alternatively, microwave them and then crisp them in a hot skillet for a few minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?

Yes, you can use larger potatoes. Just cut them into smaller chunks before boiling.

2. Can I make this without a Blackstone griddle?

Absolutely! You can cook the potatoes in a large skillet or on a regular grill. Just ensure you get the potatoes crispy on both sides.

3. Can I use pre-cooked bacon bits?

Yes, store-bought bacon bits work perfectly for convenience, but fresh cooked bacon crumbles will give you a richer flavor.

4. How do I get the potatoes crispy?

Make sure the griddle or skillet is hot enough before adding the potatoes. Don’t overcrowd them, as this can prevent crisping.

5. Can I prepare the potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the potatoes, smash them, and refrigerate them. When ready to serve, just crisp them up on the griddle.

6. Can I add other seasonings to the potatoes?

Definitely! Try adding smoked paprika, onion powder, or fresh herbs for extra flavor.

7. Can I use dairy-free butter or cheese?

Yes, substitute dairy-free butter and cheese to make this recipe dairy-free.

8. How can I make the potatoes spicier?

Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili flakes when seasoning the potatoes, or top with jalapeños for heat.

9. Can I use frozen corn instead of canned?

Yes, frozen corn can be used. Just make sure it’s thawed before adding it to the potatoes.

10. What’s a good dipping sauce for these potatoes?

Ranch dressing, sour cream, or a spicy aioli would all be great dipping sauces for this dish.

Conclusion

Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes are a decadent, flavorful side dish that’s simple to prepare and impossible to resist. The crispy potatoes, loaded with melted cheddar, crispy bacon, and a variety of toppings, make for the perfect complement to any meal. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking indoors, this recipe is sure to impress and become a go-to favorite for your family and friends. Serve them at your next barbecue, weeknight dinner, or special occasion for a truly satisfying treat.

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