There’s something wonderfully playful about a Crispy smashed potatoes Pizza—combining two of my family’s absolute favorites into one irresistible dish. Growing up in a small town in southern England, potatoes were a staple on our table, often served simply but lovingly. Now, living in sunny San Diego with my kids, I find joy in reinventing humble ingredients into fun, shareable meals. This recipe is a perfect example: golden, crispy smashed potatoes become the base for all the classic pizza toppings my little ones adore, making dinner both delicious and delightfully hands-on.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Crispy smashed potatoes Pizza
This recipe stands out because it takes the comfort of crispy potatoes and the crowd-pleasing charm of pizza and marries them in a way that’s fresh and fun. First, the crispy edges of smashed potatoes add a fantastic textural contrast that traditional pizza dough can’t match. Second, it’s incredibly versatile—you can customize toppings to suit picky eaters or adventurous foodies alike. Lastly, it’s a fantastic way to get the kids involved in cooking; my little boy’s obsession with dipping led to extra cheese and sauce on every bite, and trust me, that’s a win in any kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Crispy smashed potatoes Pizza
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right potatoes and fresh toppings. I always opt for baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes because they’re the perfect size and texture for smashing and crisping. When it comes to toppings, I lean on quality cheese and fresh herbs, which elevate the dish without complicating it. Using seasonal veggies or your favorite pizza toppings helps keep the recipe personal and exciting.
- 1 ½ pounds baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup pizza sauce or marinara
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Optional toppings: sliced cherry tomatoes, pepperoni, sautéed mushrooms, or bell peppers
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 14g (mostly from cheese and olive oil)
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g (mainly from pizza sauce)
- Sodium: 520mg
Crispy Smashed Potatoes Pizza The Ultimate Comfort Food Mashup
Learn how to make delicious Crispy smashed potatoes Pizza. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right potatoes and fresh toppings. I always opt for baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes because they’re the perfect size and texture for smashing and crisping. When it comes to toppings, I lean on quality cheese and fresh herbs, which elevate the dish without complicating it. Using seasonal veggies or your favorite pizza toppings helps keep the recipe personal and exciting.
- 1 ½ pounds baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup pizza sauce or marinara
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Optional toppings: sliced cherry tomatoes, pepperoni, sautéed mushrooms, or bell peppers
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Place the baby potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cook until tender but not falling apart, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. Using the bottom of a sturdy glass or a potato masher, gently press down each potato until it’s about ½ inch thick but still holds together.
- Arrange the smashed potatoes on the baking sheet in a single layer, leaving a little space between each. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them—the crispier, the better!
- Remove from the oven and spoon a generous tablespoon of pizza sauce over each potato. Sprinkle evenly with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, adding any optional toppings you like.
- Return to the oven for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy warm, preferably with a side of ketchup for dipping if you have little ones like mine!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Crispy smashed potatoes Pizza
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Place the baby potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cook until tender but not falling apart, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. Using the bottom of a sturdy glass or a potato masher, gently press down each potato until it’s about ½ inch thick but still holds together.
- Arrange the smashed potatoes on the baking sheet in a single layer, leaving a little space between each. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them—the crispier, the better!
- Remove from the oven and spoon a generous tablespoon of pizza sauce over each potato. Sprinkle evenly with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, adding any optional toppings you like.
- Return to the oven for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy warm, preferably with a side of ketchup for dipping if you have little ones like mine!
Tips for Making the Best Crispy smashed potatoes Pizza
Getting this dish just right is all about technique and a few little tricks I’ve picked up from years in professional kitchens and family dinners. The crispiness of the potatoes is the star, so don’t rush the baking time. Also, using small, firm potatoes ensures they hold their shape when smashed. My kids taught me that the cheese-to-sauce ratio is everything—too much sauce can make the potatoes soggy, so I like to go light on the sauce and heavy on the cheese.
- Use baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t skip the olive oil drizzle; it’s key for that golden crisp.
- Allow potatoes to cool slightly before smashing to avoid breaking them apart.
- Customize toppings based on what your family loves or what’s in season.
- Make sure the oven is fully preheated to get that perfect crisp.
With these tips, you’ll create a restaurant-quality dish every time. Learn more: related recipe Learn more: Ultimate Comfort Food BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This dish is incredibly versatile and works beautifully for casual weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings where everyone can pick their toppings. I often serve it alongside a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. When the kids are around, a simple side of carrot sticks with ranch dressing keeps things colorful and fun. For adult guests, a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with a twist of lime complements the savory flavors beautifully.
- Pair with a fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Serve alongside roasted or sautéed seasonal vegetables
- Offer a variety of dipping sauces—ketchup, garlic aioli, or ranch
- Accompany with a light, crisp white wine or sparkling water
Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or entertaining friends, this dish never fails to impress and brings a happy buzz to the table.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage ensures you can enjoy leftovers just as much as the fresh dish. I’ve found that reheating with care keeps the potatoes crispy and the cheese melty without drying them out. When life gets busy (and with kids, it often does), having a make-ahead meal like this is a lifesaver.
- Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness
- Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the potatoes soggy
- Make ahead by prepping the smashed potatoes and toppings separately, then assemble and bake when ready
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Crispy smashed potatoes Pizza?
The main ingredients for Crispy smashed potatoes Pizza include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make Crispy smashed potatoes Pizza?
The total time to make Crispy smashed potatoes Pizza includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make Crispy smashed potatoes Pizza ahead of time?
Yes, Crispy smashed potatoes Pizza can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with Crispy smashed potatoes Pizza?
Crispy smashed potatoes Pizza pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is Crispy smashed potatoes Pizza suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, Crispy smashed potatoes Pizza may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Crispy smashed potatoes Pizza inspires you to get creative in your kitchen and enjoy the magic of simple ingredients made special. Cooking, especially with family, is about those moments of joy and connection—imperfect, messy, and full of laughter. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out and what toppings your family chose. Here’s to many delicious, easy meals shared around your table!
