If you’re looking for a delightful side dish that will make any meal memorable, then you’re in for a treat with these Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes! These golden beauties are not only crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, but they’re also incredibly versatile and perfect for any occasion—from busy weeknights to festive family gatherings. The combination of gooey cheese, savory bits, and zesty green onions takes them to a whole new level of deliciousness that your loved ones will rave about.
What makes this recipe special is its simplicity and adaptability. You can tweak the toppings to suit your tastes or dietary preferences, making it a hit no matter who you’re serving. So let’s dive into this recipe and whip up something extraordinary together!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: Ready in just 25 minutes, these potatoes are perfect for last-minute meals or snacks.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness and crispy texture—ideal for any gathering!
- Easily customizable: Add your favorite toppings like jalapeños or different cheeses for a personal touch.
- Perfect for meal prep: Make them ahead of time; just reheat on the griddle before serving!
- Comfort food at its best: The combination of flavors makes every bite feel like a warm hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these scrumptious Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Let’s gather what we need!
For the Potatoes
- 2 lbs baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Toppings
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup bacon bits
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily switch things up to suit your cravings or dietary needs. Here are some fun variation ideas:
- Add heat: Toss in sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick that complements the creamy cheese.
- Change up the cheese: Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for an extra burst of flavor.
- Go vegan: Swap out bacon bits for plant-based alternatives and use dairy-free cheese and sour cream.
- Herb it up: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives over the top for an aromatic finish.
How to Make Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Start by boiling your baby potatoes in salted water until they’re fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. This step is crucial because tender potatoes ensure that you can easily smash them later! Once they’re ready, drain them well and let them cool slightly.
Step 2: Smash Those Potatoes
Once cooled, gently smash each potato on a clean surface or directly on your preheated griddle until they are about half an inch thick. Smashing allows those tasty edges to get perfectly crispy during cooking, creating that irresistible texture we all love!
Step 3: Heat Up the Griddle
Preheat your Blackstone griddle over medium heat while drizzling olive oil on the surface. This helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown crust when you cook the smashed potatoes. A hot griddle ensures even cooking and maximum crispiness!
Step 4: Cook Until Crispy
Place your smashed potatoes on the griddle, cooking them for about 4-5 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and crispy. This step is key—those deliciously crispy edges add so much character to each bite!
Step 5: Add Toppings
Once crispy perfection is achieved, generously top each potato with shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits (or their substitutes), and chopped green onions. Allow the cheese to melt beautifully over everything—it’s pure comfort food magic!
Step 6: Serve Warm
Finally, serve these loaded smashed potatoes warm with a dollop of sour cream on top. They make an incredible side dish that elevates any meal from ordinary to extraordinary! Enjoy every bite with family and friends!
Pro Tips for Making Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes
To ensure your Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
Choose the right potatoes: Opt for Yukon Gold or red potatoes for the best balance of creaminess and flavor. Their waxy texture holds up well during boiling and smashing.
Don’t skip the cooling step: Allowing the potatoes to cool slightly after boiling makes them easier to handle and helps them crisp up nicely on the griddle.
Use plenty of olive oil: Generously drizzling olive oil on your griddle not only prevents sticking but also enhances the crispy texture of the potatoes.
Monitor cooking time closely: Keep a close eye on your potatoes as they cook; golden brown edges are key, and cooking times may vary depending on heat levels and potato size.
Get creative with toppings: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or toppings like jalapeños or even guacamole to personalize your dish and impress your guests!
How to Serve Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes
Presenting your Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes creatively can elevate any meal. Consider these serving suggestions that will make your dish a showstopper.
Garnishes
- Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro over the potatoes for a pop of color and freshness.
- Drizzle of ranch dressing: A light drizzle adds extra flavor and creaminess, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Side Dishes
- Grilled veggies: Roasted or grilled seasonal vegetables add a vibrant touch and complement the hearty potatoes with their natural sweetness.
- Corn on the cob: Sweet corn is a classic BBQ side that pairs wonderfully with loaded smashed potatoes, providing crunch and freshness to your meal.
- Garden salad: A light, refreshing salad balances the richness of the potatoes, offering a healthy contrast with crisp greens and tangy dressing.
Make Ahead and Storage
These Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a delicious side dish even on busy days.
Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing
- Allow the smashed potatoes to cool completely before freezing.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- For best results, reheat on the Blackstone griddle over medium heat until warmed through and crispy.
- Alternatively, use an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
FAQs
Can I make Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can boil and smash the potatoes in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and reheat on the griddle before serving.
What toppings can I add to my Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes?
Feel free to customize your toppings! Jalapeños, different cheeses like pepper jack, or even avocado can add a unique twist to this dish.
Are Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes suitable for meal prep?
Yes! These potatoes store well in the fridge and can be reheated easily, making them a great option for meal prepping.
Can I use different types of potatoes?
Certainly! While baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best, you can experiment with other varieties like russet potatoes for a different texture.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making these delightful Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes as much as I do! They are not only simple to prepare but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to adapt them to your taste. Enjoy sharing this special recipe with friends and family at your next gathering!
Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes
Experience the ultimate comfort food with our Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes! This delightful side dish features crispy, golden edges and a fluffy interior that perfectly blends savory flavors. Topped with gooey cheddar cheese, crunchy bits of bacon, and fresh green onions, these potatoes are sure to impress at any gathering—from casual weeknights to festive family dinners. Quick and easy to prepare, this recipe allows for endless customization, ensuring everyone can enjoy their perfect plate. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking in your kitchen, Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes will elevate your meal into something extraordinary!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 lbs baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup bacon bits (or plant-based alternative)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup sour cream (or dairy-free substitute)
Instructions
- Boil the baby potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
- Smash each potato on a clean surface or directly on your preheated Blackstone griddle until about half an inch thick.
- Preheat the griddle over medium heat and drizzle olive oil on the surface.
- Cook the smashed potatoes for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and green onions; allow cheese to melt.
- Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
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