Ina Garten Smashed Potatoes – Rustic, Creamy, and Effortlessly Comforting

Ina Garten’s Smashed Potatoes are the perfect blend of creamy and chunky, offering the ultimate comfort-food texture. Unlike mashed potatoes, these are gently smashed with their skins on, creating a rustic, homey dish that’s rich in flavor and simple to make. With butter, cream, and a touch of seasoning, they pair beautifully with almost any main course.

This easy recipe is a true Barefoot Contessa classic—warm, hearty, and wonderfully satisfying.

What Are Ina Garten’s Smashed Potatoes?

Ina Garten’s smashed potatoes are made by boiling Yukon Gold or red potatoes until tender, then lightly smashing them with butter, warm cream, salt, and pepper. The skins are left on, and the texture is intentionally rustic—soft and creamy inside with bits of chunkiness throughout.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten Roasted Brussels Sprouts
• Ina Garten Smoked Salmon Dip
• Ina Garten Buttermilk Cheddar Biscuits
• Ina Garten Hollandaise Sauce

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Smashed Potatoes

• No peeling required – Saves prep time and adds flavor
• Rich and buttery – Classic comfort in every bite
• Easy to make – Just boil, smash, and season
• Versatile side dish – Works with meat, poultry, or vegetarian mains
• Rustic texture – Creamy yet hearty and filling
• Naturally gluten-free – Great for most diets
• Great for gatherings or weeknight dinners – Simple and crowd-pleasing

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten’s Smashed Potatoes

• 3 pounds of small Yukon Gold or red potatoes
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt (for boiling water)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
• ½ to ¾ cup half-and-half or whole milk, warmed
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Smashed Potatoes

Step 1: Boil the potatoes

Place whole potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add 1 tablespoon salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 2: Drain and steam dry

Drain the potatoes thoroughly, then return them to the hot pot. Let them sit uncovered for 1–2 minutes to allow excess moisture to evaporate.

Step 3: Smash the potatoes

Using a potato masher or a large fork, gently smash the potatoes in the pot. You want them partially mashed—leave some texture for that classic rustic feel.

Step 4: Add butter and cream

Add the butter and half of the warm cream. Stir gently until the butter melts and the mixture begins to come together. Add more cream if needed for the desired consistency.

Step 5: Season and garnish

Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if using. Serve warm.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten’s Smashed Potatoes

• Roast chicken or turkey – A timeless pairing
• Grilled steak or pork chops – Hearty and satisfying
• Pan-seared salmon or halibut – Light yet flavorful contrast
• Meatloaf or braised beef – Rich main dishes love these potatoes
• Green beans or roasted carrots – Adds color and crunch
• Classic gravy or pan juices – For extra indulgence
• Herb-crusted tofu or lentil patties – A vegetarian option

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten’s Smashed Potatoes

• Use waxy potatoes – Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape and mash well
• Leave the skins on – Adds flavor, texture, and nutrients
• Warm the cream or milk – Helps it blend better with the butter
• Smash gently – Aim for a mix of creamy and chunky texture
• Let potatoes steam dry – Prevents a watery mash
• Taste as you go – Adjust salt, butter, and cream for balance
• Serve immediately for best texture – Though they reheat well

Creative Variations of Ina Garten’s Smashed Potatoes

• Add roasted garlic – For a deep, savory flavor
• Stir in sharp cheddar or Gruyère – For a cheesy upgrade
• Mix in sour cream or crème fraîche – Adds tang and richness
• Top with crispy shallots or bacon bits – Crunchy and savory
• Add chopped scallions or green onions – For a mild onion flavor
• Infuse the butter with herbs – Try thyme, rosemary, or sage
• Use buttermilk instead of cream – For a lighter, tangy twist

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten’s Smashed Potatoes

• Store leftovers in an airtight container – Keeps for 3–4 days in the fridge
• Cool completely before storing – Prevents condensation
• Don’t store in metal pots – Transfer to glass or plastic containers
• Refrigerate promptly – For food safety and freshness

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten’s Smashed Potatoes

• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat – Add a splash of cream or milk while stirring
• Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals – Stir between rounds for even heating
• Oven: Reheat covered at 325°F for 20 minutes – Works best for larger portions
• Avoid overheating – Can dry out the texture
• Top with fresh herbs before serving again – Refreshes the flavor

Nutritional Value (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 260
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 13g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 420mg

A rich, balanced side dish perfect for complementing both everyday and special occasion meals.

FAQs

Do you peel the potatoes for Ina Garten’s smashed potatoes?

No, the skins are left on. The skins add flavor, texture, and nutrients, and they contribute to the rustic style of the dish.

What’s the difference between smashed and mashed potatoes?

Smashed potatoes are gently broken down and left chunky with the skins on, while mashed potatoes are typically peeled, whipped, and smoother in texture.

Can I make smashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare smashed potatoes a few hours in advance. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or butter to bring them back to serving consistency.

What’s the best type of potato for smashed potatoes?

Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best. They hold their shape well and offer a creamy texture with a slightly waxy consistency, perfect for smashing.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Smashed Potatoes are everything comfort food should be—simple, hearty, and full of flavor. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward process, they deliver a side dish that’s rustic in texture, rich in taste, and easy to pair with nearly any main. A perfect staple for both weeknight dinners and holiday gatherings.

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