Name: Delicious Vegan Thanksgiving-Style Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1-1.5 lb Creamer Potatoes (Blushing Belles) (Perfect for achieving crispy texture); 1 tbsp Olive Oil (For brushing on the potatoes); to taste Salt (Enhances the flavor); to taste Black Pepper (Adjust based on preference); 2 cups Mushrooms (Choose your favorites); 3 cloves Garlic (Aromatic touch); 1 medium Onion (Adds sweetness and depth); ½ cup Cranberry Sauce (Homemade or store-bought); 1 tbsp Fresh Thyme (Fragrant garnish)

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The warm aroma of roasted potatoes fills the kitchen, instantly transporting me back to family gatherings around a Thanksgiving table. This year, I’m spicing things up with Vegan Thanksgiving-Style Smashed Potatoes with Mushroom Gravy! These crispy little gems are not only a delightful twist on the classic, but they are also simple enough for any home chef to whip up. Perfect for festive feasts, they come together quickly and are crowd-pleasers that even non-vegans will love. With the earthy richness of mushroom gravy and a pop of cranberry sauce, these smashed potatoes deliver layers of comfort and flavor in every bite. What’s your favorite way to elevate classic dishes for the holidays?

Why Are These Vegan Smashed Potatoes Special?

Crispy, Golden Perfection: Experience the delightful crunch of smashed potatoes, baked until golden brown for an irresistible texture.
Savory Mushroom Gravy: Each bite is enhanced by a rich, homemade mushroom gravy that adds depth and umami flavor.
Festive Twist: Topped with tangy-sweet cranberry sauce, these potatoes elevate any holiday meal to a new level of deliciousness.
Easy to Prepare: Perfect for busy cooks, these smashed potatoes come together in just a few simple steps, making meal prep a breeze.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Even non-vegans will love these, truly making them a dish that everyone can enjoy at your next gathering. Explore more ways to make your meals festive with links to Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce or a delicious Vegan Lebanese Green Bean Stew.

Vegan Thanksgiving-Style Smashed Potatoes Ingredients

Get ready to create a holiday favorite!

For the Smashed Potatoes
• Creamer Potatoes (1-1.5 lb bag of Blushing Belles) – These are the star ingredients, perfect for achieving that crispy texture.
• Olive Oil – Essential for brushing on the potatoes to make them golden and delicious.
• Salt – Use to taste to enhance the natural flavor of your Vegan Thanksgiving-Style Smashed Potatoes.
• Black Pepper – Add a sprinkle to elevate the taste; adjust it based on your preference.

For the Mushroom Gravy
• Mushroom – Choose your favorites; they create a rich, earthy flavor in your gravy.
• Garlic – A must for that aromatic touch that complements the mushrooms beautifully.
• Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the gravy, making every bite irresistible.

For the Topping
• Cranberry Sauce – Offers a tangy-sweet surprise that pairs wonderfully with the savory potatoes. Use homemade or store-bought!
• Fresh Thyme – A fragrant garnish that adds an herbaceous note; dried thyme works too if fresh isn’t available.

Now that you have the ingredients gathered, you’re on your way to creating a festive dish that will warm hearts and stomachs alike!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Thanksgiving-Style Smashed Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). This high temperature will ensure that your Vegan Thanksgiving-Style Smashed Potatoes turn out perfectly crispy. While the oven heats up, gather your ingredients and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes
Place your rinsed Creamer potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Bring the pot to a boil over high heat and let the potatoes cook for about 15 minutes or until they are fork-tender. Make sure to drain the potatoes well in a colander after boiling, allowing any excess moisture to escape for the crispiest result.

Step 3: Smash the Potatoes
On a lined baking sheet, gently place each drained potato. Using the bottom of a cup or a fork, smash each potato until it’s about ½ inch thick—watch for cracking edges to ensure they maintain their shape. Arrange the smashed potatoes evenly on the baking sheet to promote even cooking and crispiness.

Step 4: Season and Oil the Potatoes
In this step, generously brush both sides of each smashed potato with olive oil. Sprinkle them all with salt to taste, allowing that savory flavor to penetrate when baking. The oil helps achieve that golden color and crispy texture that makes these Vegan Thanksgiving-Style Smashed Potatoes so irresistible.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Carefully place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the potatoes for about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should turn golden and crisp around the edges, coaxing out that delightful crunch. Consider flipping the potatoes halfway through for even browning and additional crispiness.

Step 6: Add Delicious Toppings
Once the potatoes are perfectly baked, take them out of the oven. Spoon approximately ½ tablespoon of warm mushroom gravy onto each potato, followed by ½ teaspoon of cranberry sauce. Add a sprinkle of fresh thyme and black pepper to finish. This harmony of flavors elevates your Vegan Thanksgiving-Style Smashed Potatoes to new heights.

Step 7: Serve Warm and Enjoy
These crispy smashed potatoes are best served warm, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully. Gather your friends and family around the table to enjoy this delightful dish together. Their delightful crunch paired with savory and tangy toppings will make for a memorable addition to your holiday gathering!

Make Ahead Options

These Vegan Thanksgiving-Style Smashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the mushroom gravy up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its rich flavor. Additionally, the potatoes can be boiled and smashed, then refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. To keep them from browning, simply cover the mashed potatoes with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to serve, bake the potatoes straight from the fridge and top them with the warmed gravy, cranberry sauce, and fresh thyme. This way, you’ll have delicious, comforting side dishes ready with minimal effort on the big day!

How to Store and Freeze Vegan Thanksgiving-Style Smashed Potatoes

Fridge: Store any leftover Vegan Thanksgiving-Style Smashed Potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: If you want to enjoy these potatoes later, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To regain that crispy texture, reheat the smashed potatoes in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through.

Avoid Sogginess: If you’ve topped with gravy, it’s best to store the gravy separately and add it before serving to prevent sogginess.

Tips for the Best Vegan Thanksgiving-Style Smashed Potatoes

• Tender Potatoes: Ensure potatoes are fork-tender before smashing; this creates a better texture and prevents them from being too dense.

• Perfectly Crispy: For the ultimate crunch, flip the smashed potatoes halfway through baking to achieve even browning on both sides.

• Quality Gravy: Use fresh mushrooms and homemade gravy if possible; it enhances the rich flavor that complements your Vegan Thanksgiving-Style Smashed Potatoes wonderfully.

• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; they’re key to elevating the flavors of your potatoes and making every bite extraordinary.

• Customize Toppings: Experiment with different herbs or add vegan cheese for an exciting twist to your gravy-topped potatoes.

What to Serve with Vegan Thanksgiving-Style Smashed Potatoes

The magic of a festive meal comes alive when you pair the crispy richness of your smashed potatoes with exciting accompaniments that create a truly memorable dining experience.

Vegan Lentil Loaf: This hearty dish adds protein and a savory depth that perfectly complements the flavors of the potatoes.
Garlicky Green Beans: Fresh, crisp green beans tossed in garlic deliver a vibrant crunch, balancing the creamy textures of the gravy.
Cranberry Quinoa Salad: A refreshing blend of quinoa, cranberries, and nuts offers a satisfying contrast to the savory smashed potatoes.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy, caramelized sprouts bring earthy flavors while enhancing the festive vibe of your table.
Earthy Mushroom Risotto: Creamy and rich, this dish echoes the mushroom gravy while providing a luxurious experience with every bite.
Vegan Caesar Salad: Crisp Romaine tossed in a zesty dressing adds freshness and crunch, enhancing your holiday plate’s variety of textures.
Pumpkin Soup: A warm, spiced soup serves as a comforting starter to your meal that embraces the essence of the season.
Spiced Apple Cider: This warming beverage not only pairs beautifully with the meal but also invites the spirit of autumn into your gathering.
Chocolate Avocado Mousse: End your feast on a sweet note with this rich, creamy dessert that feels indulgent while staying healthy.

Vegan Thanksgiving-Style Smashed Potatoes Variations

Feel free to add your own flair to these delightful smashed potatoes—they’re as versatile as they are delicious!

Potato Variety: Swap Blushing Belles with fingerlings or baby Yukon Golds for different textures and flavors.
Spicy Twist: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the olive oil for a kick of heat that will surprise your taste buds!
Mushroom Medley: Experiment with shiitake or portobello mushrooms in the gravy for a richer, earthy flavor.
Herbaceous Boost: Try adding fresh rosemary or sage alongside thyme for a fragrant herb twist that sings in every bite.
Creamy Addition: Mix in a dollop of vegan sour cream on top of the gravy for a luscious touch that enhances creaminess.
Nutty Flavor: Top with toasted walnuts or pecans for an exciting crunch that complements the softness of the potatoes beautifully.
Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle some plant-based cheese on top before baking for an extra creamy delight that’s irresistibly good.
Mediterranean Flare: Incorporate kalamata olives or sun-dried tomatoes into the topping for a bold, Mediterranean-inspired flavor.

These variations ensure that your Vegan Thanksgiving-Style Smashed Potatoes are not just a seasonal dish but a new family favorite throughout the year! Explore more delightful pairings with roasted Greek potatoes or indulge in the comforting richness of cheesy baked potatoes with broccoli cheese sauce.

Vegan Thanksgiving-Style Smashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right potatoes?
Absolutely! When selecting Creamer potatoes, look for small to medium-sized ones free from dark spots or blemishes. The Blushing Belles variety is perfect due to their creamy texture, but you can also use fingerlings or baby Yukon Golds for a delightful twist.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
For optimal freshness, store any leftover Vegan Thanksgiving-Style Smashed Potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re looking to preserve them further, you can cover and store them at room temperature for about 4 hours if not topped with gravy.

Can I freeze the smashed potatoes?
Very! To freeze your Vegan Thanksgiving-Style Smashed Potatoes, first, arrange unbaked smashed potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place them in the freezer for a couple of hours until they’re solid and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 450°F (232°C) for about 25-30 minutes for a crispy texture.

Why are my potatoes not crispy enough?
If your smashed potatoes are lacking crispiness, it may be due to excess moisture. Ensure they are fully drained after boiling and avoid covering them while baking. A quick flip halfway through the baking process also boosts their crunch factor!

Are these smashed potatoes suitable for pets?
While these Vegan Thanksgiving-Style Smashed Potatoes are a delicious vegan option for humans, they may not be ideal for pets. Potatoes should be cooked and served without seasoning like salt and pepper, and it’s always best to consult your veterinarian before sharing human food with your furry friends.

Can I make the gravy ahead of time?
Absolutely! I often prepare the mushroom gravy a day in advance. Prepare it as instructed, and once cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to use it, simply reheat on the stovetop before adding to your potatoes, ensuring it’s nice and warm for that perfect topping!