How Smashed Potatoes Became 2026’S Most Viral Comfort Food Trend
By Alexander Ross
Q1: Why do my smashed potatoes turn out soggy instead of crispy?
A1: Sogginess stems from excess moisture. Always let parboiled potatoes steam-dry on a wire rack or colander for at least 8 to 10 minutes before smashing them. Additionally, ensure your oven temperature reaches at least 425°F and refrain from overcrowding the sheet pan, which causes the potatoes to steam each other.
Q2: Can I use pre-shredded bagged cheese for the topping?
A2: Avoid pre-shredded bagged cheese if you want a smooth, cohesive melt. Commercial shredded cheeses are coated in potato starch or cellulose to prevent caking in the bag. These anti-clumping additives inhibit smooth melting, resulting in a gritty, grainy texture instead of an elastic cheese pull.
Q3: How do I store and reheat leftovers without losing the crunch?
A3: Store chilled leftovers in a ventilated container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Never reheat them in a microwave, which turns the potato core into rubber and makes the cheese greasy. Instead, reheat in a 380°F air fryer for 4 to 5 minutes, or in a 400°F oven for 8 minutes to restore the crispy edges.
Alexander Ross has covered the video game industry for a decade, writing deep dives on game design, esports tournaments, VR developments, and gaming culture.
