Pizza Smashed Potatoes: the Simple Recipe for a Stringy and Tasty Appetizer You Need to Try!

Pizza Smashed Potatoes are a delightful and innovative twist on traditional pizza, perfect for a unique appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. This dish combines the comforting taste of potatoes with the classic flavors of pizza toppings. To make these potato pizzas, you start by boiling and flattening unpeeled potatoes, then top them with a seasoned tomato sauce and bake. After adding shredded mozzarella, bake again until the cheese is melted and bubbly. They are so unique and appetizing that you can easily serve them during a buffet or for brunch. Who doesn't love potatoes and pizza, after all?

What Are Pizza Smashed Potatoes?

Potato pizzas, while not having a long-standing traditional history, are a creative modern twist on classic Italian cuisine. This innovative dish likely emerged from the desire to combine two beloved comfort foods: potatoes and pizza. The concept takes inspiration from Italian pizza's simple yet flavorful ingredients and the versatility of potatoes, a staple in many global cuisines. By merging these elements, potato pizzas offer a new and exciting way to enjoy familiar flavors, making them a popular choice for those seeking variety in their culinary repertoire.

Tips to Get the Best Pizza Smashed Potatoes

• Opt for medium-sized, starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. These varieties hold their shape well after boiling and offer a fluffy interior.
• Let the potatoes cool slightly after boiling. This makes them easier to handle and helps them hold together better when flattened.
• Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 190°C/375°F before baking. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve a crispy exterior on the potatoes.
• Use a flat-bottomed glass to press down on the potatoes gently and evenly. This creates a uniform surface for the toppings and ensures consistent cooking.
• Enjoy your smashed potato pizzas while they're hot and the cheese is still melty for the best experience.

What Are The Best Types of Potatoes To Choose for This Recipe?

The best types of potatoes for this recipe are medium-sized, starchy varieties like Russets or Yukon Golds. These potatoes hold their shape well after boiling and offer a fluffy interior, perfect for smashing and topping.

Can I Vary a Bit on The Toppings?

You can vary the toppings on your potato pizzas trying to replicate your favorite pizza toppings! Try adding pepperoni or cooked sausage for a meaty twist, or incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions for a veggie-packed version. For a gourmet touch, experiment with different cheeses such as feta or blue cheese, and consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.

Do I Really Have to Peel the Potatoes Before Smashing?

You don't necessarily need to peel the potatoes before smashing them. Leaving the skins on adds texture and retains more nutrients, giving the potato pizzas a rustic appeal. However, if you prefer a smoother texture or find the skins too tough, you can peel them after boiling. It's a matter of personal preference and desired consistency.

Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free. It uses potatoes, tomato sauce, cheese, and simple seasonings, all of which are naturally free of gluten. Just ensure that all packaged ingredients, like the tomato sauce, are labeled gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.

Can I Make This With Sweet Potatoes, Instead?

Yes, you can make this recipe with sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes offer a different flavor profile, providing a sweeter and slightly softer texture. They pair well with savory toppings and can add a unique twist to the dish.

More Potato Recipes For Your Brunches and Buffets

Egg Stuffed Baked Potatoes

Stuffed Potatoes

Cheesy Potatoes

Potato Sunflower Bake

How to Store Pizza Smashed Potatoes

Once cooked, store the Smashed Potato Pizzas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 180°C/350°F until warmed through and crispy, or use a microwave for a quicker option.

How to Make Pizza Smashed Potatoes

Boil the unpeeled potatoes until soft. Let them cool down, peel them, and place them onto a parchment-covered baking sheet.

Press each potato with a glass to flatten it out. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a bowl, mix the tomato sauce with olive oil, salt, pepper and basil.

Top the pressed potatoes with the tomato sauce. Bake for 20-25 minutes.

Once the 25 minutes are up, add shredded mozzarella on top of each pressed potato pizza and bake for 10 minutes more.

Decorate with a fresh basil leaf and dry oregano.