Ingredients
Scale
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
