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Loaded Smashed Potatoes – Crispy, Cheesy & Fully Loaded Comfort Food!

If you’re craving a dish that’s crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and topped with gooey melted cheese, herbs, and savory toppings, these Loaded Smashed Potatoes are your new go-to comfort side. They’re everything you love about baked potatoes—but crunchier, cheesier, and far more addictive. Each baby potato is boiled until tender, smashed flat, roasted until golden and crispy, then finished with melted cheese, beef bacon (or crispy chicken), green onions, and a creamy drizzle. These potatoes steal the spotlight whether served as a side dish, appetizer, or party snack.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes
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Ingredients
  

For the Potatoes
  • 2 lbs baby potatoes
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Loaded Toppings
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
  • ½ cup mozzarella cheese optional, extra meltiness
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 4 –6 strips beef bacon or crispy chicken pieces no pork
  • ¼ cup green onions chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika optional for color
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Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Potato masher or the bottom of a glass
  • Mixing bowl
  • Oven
  • Small skillet (if cooking beef bacon or chicken)

Method
 

Step 1 — Cook the Baby Potatoes
  1. Add baby potatoes to a pot and cover with cold salted water.
  2. Boil for 15–20 minutes or until fork-tender.
  3. Drain and let cool slightly.
Step 2 — Preheat the Oven
  1. Heat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 3 — Smash the Potatoes
  1. Place potatoes on the baking sheet.
  2. Using a potato masher or the bottom of a glass, gently press down until flattened.
  3. Keep them intact but nicely cracked—this creates extra crispy edges.
Step 4 — Season and Bake
  1. Drizzle olive oil generously over each smashed potato.
  2. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  3. Bake for 25–30 minutes until crispy and golden.
Step 5 — Prepare the Toppings
  1. Cook beef bacon in a skillet until crispy (or sauté chicken pieces until golden).
  2. Chop into small crunchy bits.
  3. Mix cheddar and mozzarella in a bowl.
Step 6 — Load the Potatoes
  1. Remove potatoes from oven.
  2. Sprinkle mixed cheese over each potato.
  3. Add beef bacon/chicken bits.
  4. Return to oven for 5–7 minutes until cheese melts.
Step 7 — Finish & Serve
  1. Add dollops of sour cream.
  2. Sprinkle green onions and parsley.
  3. Add smoked paprika on top for color if desired.
  4. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator
Store for 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer
Freeze potatoes before adding sour cream for up to 1 month.
Reheating
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
Air fryer method: 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes.
🥄 Variations
Spicy Loaded: Add jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce.
Extra Cheesy: Add pepper jack or Monterey Jack.
Herb Lovers: Add rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning.
Protein Boost: Add shredded chicken or ground beef.
Creamier: Mix cream cheese into the potatoes before topping.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes?
Yes, cut them into chunks before boiling.
Why smash them?
More surface area = more crispiness.
Can I skip beef bacon?
Yes—use crispy chicken or leave as vegetarian.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, it works great.
Can I boil potatoes ahead of time?
Yes—boil and refrigerate up to 24 hours.
How to make them extra crispy?
Add more olive oil and smash thinner.
What cheese melts best?
Cheddar + mozzarella gives the perfect stretch.
Are they gluten-free?
Yes—this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I air fry them?
Yes—400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes.
Do leftovers stay crispy?
Reheat in oven or air fryer for best texture.
🏁 Conclusion
These Loaded Smashed Potatoes are everything you love about comfort food—crispy edges, gooey cheese, savory toppings, and creamy cool sour cream to finish. They’re simple, indulgent, and perfect for parties, weeknights, or snack cravings.
Whether paired with chicken, steak, or enjoyed solo, this dish always delivers bold flavor and cozy satisfaction. One bite and they’ll instantly become a household favorite.