Name: Crispy Smashed Sage Potatoes with Brown Butter Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Baby Potatoes (Waxy potatoes work best for a creamy interior.); 3 tablespoons Avocado Oil (Can substitute with olive oil.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Kosher or sea salt recommended.); 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly ground for best flavor.); 1 stick Butter (Use dairy-free butter for a vegan option.); 10 leaves Sage Leaves (Fresh preferred for most flavor.)

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As I leaned over the stove, the warm scent of nutty brown butter filled my kitchen, bringing me back to cozy family gatherings where comfort food reigned. Today, I’m excited to share my Crispy Smashed Sage Potatoes with Brown Butter recipe—an easy side dish that elevates any winter meal. With only a handful of ingredients, this dish packs an irresistible punch of flavor, thanks to the aromatic sage leaves that dance alongside the crispy edges. Not only is it gluten-free, making it a great option for everyone at the table, but it’s also a true crowd-pleaser that can be prepared in under an hour. Are you ready to bring a little extra flavor to your dinner table? Let’s dive right in!

Why Are These Potatoes So Special?

Crispy Texture: The smashing technique gives these potatoes a delightful crunch, ensuring they’re perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy inside.
Nutty Flavor: Brown butter adds a rich, nutty depth, elevating these potatoes beyond typical sides.
Easy Preparation: Just a few simple steps mean you’ll have this dish ready in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Versatile Side Dish: Pair these smashed sage potatoes with everything from roasted chicken to hearty vegetarian meals, like our Garlic Butter Shrimp or Baked Smashed Potatoes!
Gluten-Free Delight: Perfect for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy.
Crowd-Pleaser: With their unique flavor and crispy charm, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Smashed Sage Potatoes with Brown Butter Ingredients

For the Potatoes
• Baby Potatoes – These provide a creamy interior and crispy skin when cooked—perfect for smashing!
• Avocado Oil – Coats the potatoes for an extra crispiness; feel free to use olive oil for a different flavor.
• Salt – Essential for enhancing the flavor of your crispy potatoes; kosher or sea salt works wonderfully.
• Black Pepper – Adds a touch of spice; freshly ground black pepper intensifies the taste.

For the Brown Butter
• Butter – Gives that rich, nutty flavor; opt for dairy-free butter for a vegan option.
• Sage Leaves – Imparts an earthy aroma and a lovely flavor that complements the potatoes; fresh is best, but dried can work in a pinch.

Enjoy creating these Smashed Sage Potatoes with Brown Butter, a comforting dish that transforms any meal into a delightful feast!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Smashed Sage Potatoes with Brown Butter

Step 1: Prepare Potatoes
Begin by filling a large pot with salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. Once boiling, gently add the baby potatoes and cook for 12-15 minutes until they’re fork-tender yet firm. You’ll know they’re ready when a fork easily pierces the skin. After cooking, carefully drain the potatoes and let them cool for a few minutes.

Step 2: Smash Potatoes
After the potatoes have cooled slightly, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the potatoes on the prepared sheet, giving them some space. Using the bottom of a glass jar or cup, gently press down on each potato until it’s smashed but still intact. This step helps achieve the crispy texture in your Smashed Sage Potatoes with Brown Butter.

Step 3: Season and Bake
Drizzle the smashed potatoes generously with avocado oil, ensuring they are well-coated. Now, sprinkle them with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy around the edges, savoring the warm aroma filling your kitchen.

Step 4: Make Brown Butter
While the potatoes are baking, start on your brown butter. In a saucepan over medium heat, add the butter and allow it to melt completely. Stir constantly for about 5-8 minutes until it begins to bubble and turns a rich golden brown, filling your kitchen with a nutty fragrance. When it’s nearly done, add the sage leaves to the pan and let them fry for the last minute, becoming crispy and enhancing the brown butter flavor.

Step 5: Serve
Once your Smashed Sage Potatoes are out of the oven, take a moment to admire their golden crispiness. Drizzle them generously with the warm brown butter mixture and sprinkle some crispy sage leaves on top. Finish with a touch of flaky salt to heighten the flavors, and serve these delightful potatoes warm, creating a heartwarming side dish perfect for any meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Smashed Sage Potatoes with Brown Butter are fantastic for meal prep! You can boil and smash the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to refrigerate them in an airtight container until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat your oven, season them with avocado oil, salt, and pepper, then bake until golden and crispy—about 35-40 minutes. To maintain their quality, ensure they are fully cooled before refrigeration to prevent moisture buildup. This way, you can enjoy restaurant-quality smashed potatoes with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

Expert Tips for Smashed Sage Potatoes

• Potato Selection: Choose waxy baby potatoes for the best texture; they stay creamier inside when cooked.

• Cooling Time: Allow potatoes to cool slightly before smashing; this prevents them from becoming mushy and ensures crispiness during baking.

• Brown Butter Monitoring: Stir the butter constantly while making brown butter; it can go from perfectly browned to burnt very quickly if left unattended.

• Optimal Crispiness: Make sure the smashed potatoes are well-coated with oil and spaced apart on the baking sheet to achieve that golden, crispy exterior.

• Flavor Boost: Consider adding minced garlic or grated Parmesan for an extra layer of flavor to your Smashed Sage Potatoes with Brown Butter!

What to Serve with Crispy Smashed Sage Potatoes with Brown Butter

Elevate your meal with complementary sides that enhance the beautiful flavors of these crispy, buttery potatoes.

Roasted Chicken: The tender, juicy chicken harmonizes wonderfully with the crispy potatoes, making for a comforting and hearty plate.
Grilled Salmon: Flaky, seared salmon adds a light and fresh contrast to the rich, nutty flavor of the potatoes, creating a balanced dish.
Garlic Green Beans: Tossed in olive oil and garlic, these vibrant green beans bring freshness and crunch to complement the textures of the potatoes.
Herbed Quinoa Salad: A light, refreshing salad with fresh herbs and lemon offers a zesty contrast against the indulgent butteriness of the potatoes.
Creamy Coleslaw: The tangy crunch of coleslaw provides a delightful contrast, cutting through the richness of the brown butter with each bite.
Red Wine Pairing: A smooth Pinot Noir adds a beautiful depth to the meal, enhancing the earthy flavors in the potatoes while pairing well with your main dish.
Lemon Sorbet: This light dessert is perfect for cleansing the palate after a hearty meal, leaving you refreshed and ready for dessert.

Smashed Sage Potatoes with Brown Butter Variations

Feel free to play around with these variations to delight your taste buds and create a unique twist on this classic dish!

Dairy-Free: Substitute regular butter with a high-quality dairy-free butter for a vegan-friendly version.
Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes before baking to create a deliciously cheesy crust.
Herb Swap: Try using fresh rosemary or thyme in place of sage for a different herbal touch—each brings its own aromatic charm!
Garlic Infusion: Add minced garlic to the brown butter for a robust flavor boost that pairs beautifully with the crispy potatoes.
Spicy Kick: If you’re in the mood for heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes on your potatoes before baking for a zesty twist.
Crispy Mushrooms: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms alongside the sage leaves for added umami and texture!
Citrus Zest: Brighten your dish with a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving; it adds a fresh zing.
Smoky Flavor: Mix in some smoked paprika for an earthy, smoky flavor that elevates the overall dish—perfect for BBQ nights!

Create your own flavor adventure by experimenting with these variations, and don’t forget to pair these versatile smashed sage potatoes with something delightful, like our enchanting Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes for a truly memorable meal!

How to Store and Freeze Smashed Sage Potatoes

Fridge: Store leftover smashed sage potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their crispiness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked potatoes on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To revive their crispy texture, reheat the thawed potatoes in an oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This will help make them just as delightful as when they were freshly made.

Wrap Carefully: If planning to refrigerate, wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent drying out and keep those flavors intact.

Smashed Sage Potatoes with Brown Butter Recipe FAQs

How do you choose the best potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, look for waxy baby potatoes, as they provide a creamy interior and hold their shape well during cooking. If you’re in a pinch, you can use other waxy varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, but avoid starchy ones as they won’t achieve the same perfect texture.

What is the best way to store leftover smashed sage potatoes?
Store your leftover smashed sage potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If they start losing their crispiness, simply reheat them in the oven to bring back that delightful crunch.

Can you freeze smashed sage potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze these tasty potatoes! First, spread the cooked smashed potatoes on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes until crispy.

What do I do if my brown butter burns?
Very important question! If your brown butter burns, it’s best to start over. To prevent this, make sure to stir the butter constantly over medium heat and watch for a nutty aroma and golden color—this will happen quickly! Aim for about 5-8 minutes of stirring, and once you see brown flecks in the butter, remove it from the heat immediately.

Are smashed sage potatoes suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes! This recipe features gluten-free ingredients so that everyone can enjoy them. If you have a dairy allergy or are vegan, simply swap regular butter for a dairy-free option, and you’re good to go!

What happens if I can’t find fresh sage?
No worries! If fresh sage is unavailable, you can absolutely use dried sage as a substitute; however, reduce the amount to about one-third, as dried herbs are more concentrated. Alternatively, feel free to explore other fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a different flavor profile.

Smashed Sage Potatoes with Brown Butter Recipe FAQs