Ever craved the perfect side dish that pairs just right with everything? Well, smashed potatoes have officially claimed that title. They’re not just a simple spud; they’re a fun, funky way to transform our table.
We’re talking crispy edges and fluffy insides—all the best things about potatoes rolled into one. Remember those dinners when we piled everything on our plates? Smashed potatoes fit right in no matter what else is happening.
Let’s take a look at some fantastic side kickers that elevate these potatoes from good to unforgettable. From crisp salads to hearty veggies, we’ve got you covered and ready to impress.
Top 13 Side Dishes for Smashed Potatoes
Here are some of our favorite side dishes that pair perfectly with smashed potatoes:
1 – Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
Grilled lemon herb chicken is like summer on a plate. This dish brings bright flavors without fuss.
We marinate it with zesty lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. It’s juicy and not overwhelming.
Grilling adds that smoky touch we all want. It’s versatile enough to pair with salads or smashed potatoes.
Flip it just right for those fancy grill marks. Perfect for backyard gatherings or quick weeknight dinners. A splash of extra lemon before serving makes it pop. Easy peasy.
2 – Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers
Shrimp skewers are basically seafood lollipops.
Garlic butter transforms them into something we can all get behind. Toss those shrimp with garlic, thyme, and a touch of paprika.
We grill them until they’re just crispy on the outside but tender inside.
Keep an eye out, they cook fast. Pair them with smashed potatoes or a salad for balance.
These skewers make any meal feel fancy without fussing for hours.
The flavor combo speaks for itself. Perfect for impressing friends or just treating ourselves.
3 – Honey-Glazed Salmon
Who doesn’t enjoy a piece of salmon that shines like a trophy? It’s sweet, it’s flaky, and it’s so easy to make.
Honey gives it that nice golden finish we all want on our plates.
We should marinate it for at least 30 minutes to get those flavours singing.
A hot grill or a sizzling pan is all we need.
Watch it cook quickly, so keep an eye out!
Serve it alongside those smashed potatoes for a simple meal that looks fancy.
4 – Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic
Roasted Brussels sprouts are like the cool kids on the veggie block. These little guys get crispy and caramelized, bringing some serious flavor to the table.
We toss them in balsamic for a sweet tang that complements their earthiness.
Aim for even roasting for that golden perfection. Cutting them in half helps with that.
We can add some bacon bits for an extra crunch.
These sprouts make a solid side dish for any main event. They’re the type of veggies that even non-veggie fans can appreciate.
5 – Sausage and Peppers
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Sausage and peppers—can we agree that it’s a classic combo that never fails?
We get juicy sausage mixed with vibrant peppers for a dish that’s hard to resist.
This dish is super flexible. Any type of sausage works, including turkey or vegan options.
Don’t skimp on the seasoning. A pinch of garlic, onion, and red pepper flakes adds so much zest.
Cooking at high heat gets that nice char, so watch those sausages sizzle. It melds the flavors beautifully.
Serve it as a side or pile it on a roll for a quick sandwich.
6 – Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is like a warm, cheesy hug for our taste buds. It’s smooth and rich, blending fresh spinach with a creamy sauce that makes veggies way more interesting.
Spinach has loads of nutrients. We can amp it up with garlic for some added flavor.
Using cream cheese gives it a thick texture. Add some grated parmesan for a nice cheesy top.
Don’t forget to season well. A pinch of salt can make a big difference. Pair it with just about anything for a side that stands out.
7 – Grilled Lamb Chops
Grilled lamb chops are a feast for our inner carnivore. They’re juicy, tender, and full of flavor.
We should season them properly. A simple mix of salt, pepper, and rosemary goes a long way.
Searing over high heat creates that beautiful crust. We can flip them quickly for even cooking.
Serving these with smashed potatoes makes a hearty meal. Add a drizzle of mint sauce for a refreshing kick.
These chops pair well with roasted veggies, too. Super versatile dish for any occasion.
8 – Parmesan-Crusted Asparagus
Think asparagus is just a veggie? Think again. Parmesan-crusted asparagus is a surprisingly tasty side.
We coat it with parmesan for a crunchy finish. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness. Just toss it in the oven until crisp.
We can play around with seasonings too—garlic and lemon zest add life. Great crunch alongside smashed potatoes.
Pair these with grilled meats or seafood for an easy win. It’s an upgrade for our veggie game.
9 – BBQ Pulled Pork
BBQ pulled pork is a classic we can’t ignore. This dish does the work for us with flavor and ease. It’s tender and juicy, thanks to slow cooking.
We season it well with a mix of spices. Adding some apple cider vinegar kicks up the tanginess.
Throw it on a slider or serve it with smashed potatoes for a hearty meal. It’s a dish that transforms any gathering into a casual feast. Cleanup is a breeze with leftovers that make great sandwiches.
10 – Beef Stroganoff
Who said beef stroganoff can’t be a cozy classic? This dish has tender strips of beef in a creamy sauce that wins every time.
We must whip this up with mushrooms and onions for the full experience.
Served over pasta or rice, it fills us right up. Don’t rush the cooking; let everything meld together for those bold flavors.
Beef broth is key. Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce amps it up.
Leftovers? They make fabulous sandwiches.
11 – Roasted Carrots with Thyme
Roasted carrots with thyme? A side dish that gets us all questioning our veggie decisions.
These carrots are tender, sweet, and a bit caramelized. Thyme adds an earthy touch that makes them interesting.
We chop them into uniform sizes for even roasting. Olive oil is essential for that crispy finish.
Toss in some salt and pepper for flavor. These carrots fit well with any main dish.
They can even jazz up a weeknight dinner. Simple, tasty, and a crowd-pleaser.
12 – Spinach and Feta Stuffed Mushrooms
Spinach and feta stuffed mushrooms bring the fun to the dinner table. They’re easy to prepare and can be a crowd-pleaser.
The feta adds a tangy twist that pairs well with the earthy mushrooms. We can play with herbs for extra flavor.
These little bites are great as appetizers or sides. Also, they bake quickly, so watch them closely.
Adding breadcrumbs can give a nice crunch. Don’t skip on the garlic; it makes a big difference.
13 – Turkey Meatballs with Marinara
Turkey meatballs? They’re like the underdogs of the dinner table. We get juicy, lean protein that feels lighter than beef.
Marinara works wonders here. A good sauce makes all the difference.
We can bake or pan-fry for different textures.
Seasoning is crucial; don’t hold back on garlic and herbs.
These meatballs are flexible. Use them in a sub, over pasta, or by themselves.
If there are leftovers, they’re perfect for a quick snack.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.