Crack Potatoes
Crack Potatoes are a quick and easy snack or side dish featuring golden, crispy potatoes with an addictive crunchy texture achieved through a simple baking powder technique. Made with pantry staples and customizable seasonings, these versatile potatoes are perfect for appetizers, parties, or comfort food cravings.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 4 large Russet potatoes (starchy variety for optimal crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon salt (plus extra for boiling and seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (key to the crackly texture)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
Optional Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley, chopped
- Cayenne pepper or chili flakes (for spicy variation)
- Grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese (for cheesy crust)
- Smoked paprika or chipotle powder (for smoky flavor)
- Prep the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks or wedges to ensure even cooking. Rinse under cold water to remove excess starch, aiding in crispiness.
- Parboil for Tenderness: Place potato pieces in boiling salted water and parboil for 5 to 7 minutes until just tender but not falling apart, softening the inside while preparing for a crunchy outside.
- The Crack Technique: Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. Shake the pot gently to roughen the edges of each piece, which creates the signature crackly surface.
- Season and Coat: Sprinkle baking powder, salt, and any optional seasonings over the potatoes. Drizzle with oil and toss gently until each piece is evenly coated for maximum crispiness.
- Roast to Crunch Perfection: Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer without overcrowding. Roast in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 25 to 35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Notes
- Use starchy potatoes like Russets for best crispy results.
- Shaking the potatoes after parboiling to roughen edges is essential for the crackly crust.
- Make sure potatoes are dried thoroughly before seasoning to avoid sogginess.
- Roast at high heat to develop color and crunch quickly.
- Always use baking powder, not baking soda, to avoid bitterness and achieve the bubbling effect.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1 cup)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: crack potatoes, crispy potatoes, baked potatoes, snack recipe, appetizer, easy potato recipe, gluten free potatoes, crunchy potatoes