Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes are the ultimate side dish or snack—crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and topped with a melty, cheesy, bacon-loaded finish. Whether you’re grilling out, hosting a game day party, or just looking to elevate your potato game, these smashed beauties are sure to steal the spotlight. Cooked right on the flat-top griddle, they get a delicious crust that’s hard to achieve in the oven alone.
This recipe combines baby potatoes, buttery garlic seasoning, sharp cheddar cheese, and smoky bacon bits for a comfort food classic with a gourmet twist. The optional sour cream and fresh herbs add a refreshing touch that balances the richness perfectly. Best of all, they’re incredibly easy to make and highly customizable.
Perfect as a party platter, barbecue side, or even a main course for potato lovers, these loaded smashed potatoes offer flavor, texture, and versatility in every bite. Whether you’re already a Blackstone griddle fan or new to flat-top cooking, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Cheesy – The perfect combo of crunchy edges and gooey melted cheese.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps with big payoff.
- Crowd-Pleaser – A hit at cookouts, parties, or as a hearty side dish.
- Griddle Magic – Cooking on a Blackstone griddle gives unbeatable texture and flavor.
- Customizable Toppings – Add your favorite extras like sour cream, herbs, or jalapeños.
Ingredients
- Baby potatoes
- Butter
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Sea salt
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Bacon bits
Optional Toppings
- Sour cream
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Loaded Veggie Style: Add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Different Cheese: Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or a smoked gouda blend.
- Herb Infusion: Mix rosemary or thyme into the olive oil and butter.
- Bacon Alternative: Use turkey bacon or veggie bacon for a lighter version.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1
Boil baby potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (about 15–20 minutes). Drain and let cool slightly.
Step 2
Preheat the Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat. While it heats, gently flatten each potato using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup.
Step 3
In a small bowl, mix melted butter, olive oil, garlic powder, and sea salt. Brush the mixture over both sides of the smashed potatoes.
Step 4
Place the potatoes on the hot griddle. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side or until crispy and golden brown.
Step 5
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and bacon bits on top of the potatoes during the last minute of cooking. Cover with a melting dome (if available) to help cheese melt.
Step 6
Remove from griddle and top with sour cream and chopped parsley or chives, if desired. Serve immediately.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Don’t overboil potatoes—they should be soft but not falling apart.
- Use a flat-bottomed glass for consistent smashing.
- For extra crispiness, ensure the griddle is hot before adding the potatoes.
- A melting dome helps melt the cheese faster and evenly.
- Season to taste—add more garlic powder or herbs as you like.
How to Serve
Serve Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes hot off the griddle as a savory side or a fun appetizer. They’re great alongside grilled meats, burgers, or even a hearty salad. Add a few dipping sauces like ranch or spicy aioli for an extra treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Not recommended—potatoes can lose their texture when frozen and reheated.
Reheating
Reheat on the Blackstone or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe without a Blackstone griddle?
Yes, you can use a cast iron skillet or grill pan on the stove.
2. What kind of potatoes work best?
Baby red or yellow potatoes are ideal because they smash well and cook evenly.
3. How do I get them extra crispy?
Make sure the griddle is hot, and don’t overcrowd the surface. Let them cook undisturbed for maximum browning.
4. Can I prep the potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, boil and smash them in advance, then refrigerate until ready to grill.
5. Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
Absolutely—just crumble and sprinkle it during the final cooking stage.
6. Are these gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your bacon and seasonings are certified gluten-free.
7. What’s a good cheese substitute?
Any melting cheese works—try Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend.
8. How do I avoid the potatoes sticking to the griddle?
Brush with oil/butter and make sure the surface is hot before adding potatoes.
9. Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes—just omit the bacon or use a plant-based alternative.
10. What else can I top them with?
Try crumbled blue cheese, green onions, hot sauce, or even pulled pork for a twist.
Conclusion
Blackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes bring the best of crispy, cheesy, and savory all in one irresistible bite. Simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, they’re the perfect side dish or snack to elevate any meal. Whether you’re grilling for a group or just treating yourself, these smashed potatoes deliver in both taste and texture. Fire up the griddle and give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
PrintBlackstone Loaded Smashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These crispy smashed potatoes are grilled to perfection on a Blackstone, then loaded with melted cheddar, savory bacon bits, and topped with sour cream and herbs. A rich, flavorful side dish or appetizer that’s easy to make and always a hit!
Ingredients
-
2 pounds baby potatoes
-
2 tablespoons butter
-
3 tablespoons olive oil
-
1 teaspoon garlic powder
-
1 teaspoon sea salt
-
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
-
½ cup bacon bits
Optional Toppings:
-
Sour cream
-
Chopped fresh parsley or chives
Instructions
-
Boil potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and let cool slightly.
-
Preheat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat.
-
Smash each potato gently with a flat spatula.
-
Drizzle olive oil and melted butter over the potatoes. Season with garlic powder and sea salt.
-
Cook for 5 minutes on each side until crispy and golden brown.
-
Top with cheddar cheese and bacon bits. Cover with a lid or dome and cook until cheese melts (2–3 minutes).
-
Transfer to a serving platter. Add sour cream and herbs if desired.
Notes
For more flavor, add smoked paprika or ranch drizzle.
Use parchment or a burger press for evenly smashed potatoes.
Works great as a tailgate snack or BBQ side.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Griddle
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: smashed potatoes, grilled potatoes, Blackstone, bacon cheese potatoes