Pizza Smashed Potatoes Recipe

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There is something incredibly comforting about combining two beloved classics into one delightful bite, and this Pizza Smashed Potatoes Recipe does exactly that. Imagine tender baby potatoes boiled just right, smashed to a perfect golden crisp, and then topped with savory pizza sauce, gooey melted cheese, and a hint of aromatic oregano. It’s a crowd-pleasing, indulgent twist on crispy potatoes that brings all the flavors of your favorite pizza into a fun, shareable finger food. Whether you’re serving these at a get-together or as a cozy snack at home, this dish will quickly become a go-to favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, fresh, and packed with flavor, the ingredients here are key to making your pizza smashed potatoes irresistibly tasty. Each component plays a vital role in building layers of texture and flavor that will keep everyone coming back for more.

• 2 pounds baby potatoes: Small potatoes cook evenly and provide the ideal surface for smashing and crisping.
• Salt, to taste: Enhances the natural flavor of the potatoes and seasons the dish perfectly.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps create that crispy, golden exterior.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder: Brings a subtle, savory depth that complements the pizza vibe.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds an extra layer of hearty, aromatic flavor.
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce: The star topping that delivers bold tomato goodness and ties the whole dish together.
• 1 cup grated cheese (parmesan, asiago, provolone, mozzarella, etc.): Melts into creamy, bubbly perfection, giving that authentic pizza cheesiness.
• Pinch of dried oregano: A classic herb that finishes off each bite with a fragrant, earthy note.

How to Make Pizza Smashed Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil and adding a generous pinch of salt. This seasons the potatoes from within as they cook. Drop the baby potatoes into the boiling water and cook them for about 15 to 20 minutes or until they can be easily pierced with a fork. The goal here is to get them tender but not falling apart—perfect for smashing later.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

While the potatoes are boiling, set your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This high heat is essential for getting that beautifully crisp texture on the smashed potatoes once roasted. A hot oven means crispy edges and fluffy insides, just like the perfect pizza crust.

Step 3: Smash the Cooked Potatoes

Drain the potatoes well and let them cool slightly until they are easy to handle. On a large baking sheet, arrange the potatoes with some space between each one. Take a sturdy bowl, mug, or heavy glass and press down firmly on each potato until it’s about a quarter-inch thick. The smashed surface is what will caramelize in the oven, creating that irresistible crunch.

Step 4: Season and Roast the Potatoes

Drizzle olive oil generously over the smashed potatoes, making sure they’re lightly coated, which helps in crisping them up. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt evenly over everything for a burst of savory flavor. Pop the tray into your preheated oven and roast for around 20 to 25 minutes until they turn golden brown and crunchy on the edges.

Step 5: Add Pizza Toppings and Final Bake

Once the potatoes are beautifully crisp, take them out and spoon about two teaspoons of pizza sauce on each one. Next, top liberally with a tablespoon of your grated cheese choice. Finally, sprinkle a little dried oregano over the top for that authentic pizza aroma. Return the tray to the oven for another 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese melts and turns bubbly, tying this Pizza Smashed Potatoes Recipe all together in perfect harmony.

How to Serve Pizza Smashed Potatoes Recipe

Garnishes

To bring out the best in your Pizza Smashed Potatoes Recipe, consider adding fresh garnishes like chopped basil or a light drizzle of balsamic glaze. These touches introduce a refreshing contrast and a pop of color that makes the dish look as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

These potatoes pair wonderfully with fresh green salads or a side of roasted vegetables to balance the meal. Alternatively, serve alongside your favorite grilled meats or chicken wings for an unbeatable comfort food feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun party appetizer, arrange the smashed potatoes on a large platter with small bowls of extra pizza sauce and ranch dressing for dipping. You can also use mini skewers to serve each potato as a bite-sized finger food, making them perfect for casual gatherings or game day celebrations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from this Pizza Smashed Potatoes Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They maintain their flavor well, though the crispiness will fade a bit.

Freezing

Freezing is not ideal for this recipe due to the delicate crisp texture of the smashed potatoes. However, if necessary, you can freeze the potatoes (without sauce and cheese) in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a sealed bag for up to a month.

Reheating

The best way to reheat your pizza smashed potatoes is in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes. This helps regain some of the original crispness and melts the cheese deliciously if you’ve already added toppings.

FAQs

Can I use different types of potatoes?

Absolutely! While baby potatoes are ideal for size and tenderness, you can try Yukon golds or red potatoes. Just adjust the boiling time to ensure they’re easily smashable without falling apart.

What kind of cheese works best?

This recipe shines with a mix of cheese types like mozzarella for meltiness, parmesan for sharpness, and provolone or asiago for a bit of extra flavor complexity. Feel free to use your favorites!

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Swap out the cheese for a plant-based alternative and use olive oil liberally. The garlic and onion powders keep the flavor packed without compromising the delicious pizza vibe.

How spicy is this recipe?

This Pizza Smashed Potatoes Recipe is mild by default, but you can easily add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes before roasting or sprinkle some chili powder for a little kick.

Is this dish suitable for kids?

Definitely! The flavors are familiar and comforting, and the crispy, cheesy potatoes are usually a big hit with kids. Just adjust seasoning to their taste preference if needed.

Final Thoughts

If you’re on the hunt for a fun, flavorful recipe that brings the joy of pizza into a crispy, comforting potato snack, you simply must try this Pizza Smashed Potatoes Recipe. It’s easy to follow, satisfying to eat, and sure to become a favorite addition to your recipe collection that everyone will ask for again and again.

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Pizza Smashed Potatoes Recipe

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These Pizza Smashed Potatoes are a deliciously crispy and cheesy twist on classic smashed potatoes, topped with flavorful pizza sauce and a blend of Italian cheeses, finished with a sprinkle of oregano for a perfect appetizer or side dish.

• Author: Paula
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Potatoes

• 2 pounds baby potatoes
• Salt, to taste

Seasoning & Toppings

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce
• 1 cup grated cheese (parmesan, asiago, provolone, mozzarella, etc.)
• Pinch of dried oregano

Instructions

1. Boil Potatoes: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add a generous pinch of salt. Add the baby potatoes and boil them for 15-20 minutes or until they are easily pierced with a fork, ensuring they are cooked through but still firm enough to smash.
2. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 425° Fahrenheit (220° Celsius) to prepare for roasting the potatoes.
3. Smash Potatoes: Drain the boiled potatoes and allow them to cool slightly. Transfer them to a large baking sheet and use a bowl, mug, or heavy glass to gently smash each potato to about ¼-inch thickness, creating a flat surface for roasting.
4. Season and Roast: Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil, then evenly sprinkle them with garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes until the potatoes turn golden brown and develop a crispy texture.
5. Add Toppings: Remove the potatoes from the oven and spoon about 2 teaspoons of pizza sauce onto each smashed potato. Top each with about 1 tablespoon of the grated cheese blend and sprinkle with dried oregano. Return the potatoes to the oven and roast for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Notes

• Use a mix of cheeses like parmesan, asiago, provolone, and mozzarella for the best flavor and melt.
• Be careful when smashing the potatoes to avoid breaking them apart completely.
• If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes with the seasonings.
• These potatoes are best served hot out of the oven for maximum crispiness.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.