Patatas Explosivas

Crispy Spanish-Style Potatoes with Explosive Flavor

Few dishes manage to be simple, dramatic, comforting, and addictive all at once — and patatas explosivas are exactly that. If you love crispy potatoes, bold sauces, and Spanish-inspired tapas that disappear from the table in minutes, this recipe is about to become one of your favorites.

Patatas explosivas are the louder, bolder cousin of classic patatas bravas. They take humble potatoes and turn them into crackly, smashed, oven-roasted bites that explode with flavor thanks to a creamy, spicy sauce drizzled over the top. Crunchy on the outside, fluffy in the center, and unapologetically saucy, this dish delivers maximum impact with minimal ingredients.

Whether served as a tapas-style appetizer, a party snack, or a bold side dish, patatas explosivas bring restaurant-level excitement straight into your kitchen.

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What Are Patatas Explosivas?

The name translates roughly to “explosive potatoes,” and once you taste them, you’ll understand why. This dish is inspired by Spanish tapas culture, where potatoes are often served crispy and dressed with assertive sauces like brava sauce, aioli, or spicy mayo.

Unlike traditional fried potatoes, patatas explosivas are:

• Boiled first for tenderness
• Smashed to create craggy edges
• Roasted until ultra-crispy
• Finished with a bold, creamy sauce

Those cracked edges catch oil and seasoning, creating a shatteringly crisp exterior that contrasts beautifully with the fluffy interior.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy without deep frying
• Simple pantry ingredients
• Customizable heat level
• Perfect for sharing
• Naturally gluten-free

They’re indulgent without being complicated, making them ideal for casual dinners and special occasions alike.

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🥔 Ingredients

For the Potatoes

• Baby potatoes or small Yukon gold potatoes
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Smoked paprika
• Garlic powder
• Black pepper

For the Explosive Sauce

• Mayonnaise
• Hot sauce (your favorite)
• Smoked paprika
• Garlic (grated or powder)
• Lemon juice

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley (finely chopped)
• Optional chili flakes

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Boil the Potatoes
   Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender but not falling apart. Drain and let steam dry for 5 minutes.
2. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Smash the Potatoes
   Arrange potatoes on the baking sheet. Using the bottom of a glass or mug, gently smash each potato until flattened but still intact.
4. Season Generously
   Drizzle olive oil over the potatoes. Sprinkle with salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.
5. Roast Until Crispy
   Roast for 35–40 minutes, flipping once halfway, until deeply golden and crisp on the edges.
6. Prepare the Sauce
   In a bowl, whisk mayonnaise, hot sauce, smoked paprika, garlic, and lemon juice until smooth and bold.
7. Assemble
   Transfer crispy potatoes to a serving plate. Spoon or drizzle sauce generously over the top.
8. Garnish and Serve
   Finish with fresh parsley and optional chili flakes. Serve immediately.

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🔥 Tips for Maximum Crispiness

• Let potatoes steam dry after boiling to remove excess moisture
• Smash gently — rough edges create crunch
• Don’t overcrowd the pan
• Use high heat for roasting
• Flip once for even browning

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🌶️ Variations & Flavor Twists

• Extra Spicy: Add chipotle paste or sriracha to the sauce
• Garlic Lover’s Version: Mix roasted garlic into the sauce
• Cheesy Explosivas: Sprinkle grated Manchego or Parmesan before serving
• Vegan Option: Use vegan mayo
• Herb Explosion: Add cilantro or chives

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• As a tapas appetizer with olives and cured meats
• Alongside grilled chicken or steak
• With fried eggs for a bold brunch plate
• As a party snack with toothpicks

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🇪🇸 Cultural Inspiration

Potatoes are central to Spanish tapas culture, from patatas bravas to tortilla española. Patatas explosivas build on that tradition, embracing bold flavors, shareability, and contrast — crunchy, creamy, spicy, and comforting all in one dish.

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🧠 Fun Facts

• Smashing potatoes increases surface area for crisping
• Smoked paprika (pimentón) is a Spanish staple
• The sauce-to-potato ratio is intentionally generous