Introduction
If pizza night and crispy potatoes had a delicious baby, it would be Crispy Pizza Smashed Potatoes. And honestly? I don’t think either of them would be mad about it.
The first time I made this recipe, it started as a happy accident. I had a bag of baby potatoes, leftover pizza sauce, and cheese that definitely needed to be used. Instead of choosing between pizza or potatoes, I decided to mash the two ideas together—literally. I boiled the potatoes, smashed them, roasted them until golden, then topped them like mini pizzas.
The result? Absolute magic.
Crispy Pizza Smashed Potatoes have that irresistible contrast we all love: ultra-crispy edges, fluffy centers, melty cheese, and bold pizza flavors in every bite. They’re fun, shareable, customizable, and dangerously addictive. It’s no surprise this recipe has become so popular—it checks every comfort-food box while still being incredibly easy to make.
Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer, a game-day snack, or a side dish that steals the spotlight, these smashed potatoes are guaranteed to disappear fast.
Let’s get into it 🍕🥔
Ingredients
This recipe uses simple, familiar ingredients, but the way they come together is what makes Crispy Pizza Smashed Potatoes unforgettable.
Main Ingredients
- Baby potatoes (Yukon gold or red potatoes work best)
- Olive oil
- Salt and black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Italian seasoning
- Pizza sauce (or marinara)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Mini pepperoni slices
Optional Toppings
- Grated Parmesan
- Fresh basil
- Red pepper flakes
- Black olives
- Mushrooms
- Bell peppers
Ingredient Substitutions & Dietary Options
One of the best things about Crispy Pizza Smashed Potatoes is how flexible they are.
Vegetarian Option
- Skip the pepperoni
- Add mushrooms, olives, spinach, or caramelized onions
Vegan Option
- Use dairy-free mozzarella
- Choose vegan pepperoni or veggie toppings
Gluten-Free
- Naturally gluten-free as long as your pizza sauce and toppings are certified gluten-free
Healthier Swaps
- Use part-skim mozzarella
- Add more veggies and reduce cheese
- Use olive oil spray instead of pouring oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
This recipe is simple, beginner-friendly, and perfect for all skill levels.
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Place the baby potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold, salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15–20 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Tip: You want them soft enough to smash, but not falling apart.
Drain and let them steam dry for a few minutes.
Step 2: Smash the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place the potatoes on the sheet, leaving space between them. Using the bottom of a glass or a potato masher, gently press each potato until flattened but still intact.
Step 3: Season and Roast
Drizzle the smashed potatoes generously with olive oil.
Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping once halfway, until the edges are deeply golden and crispy.
This step is key—the crispiness is what makes Crispy Pizza Smashed Potatoes so irresistible.
Step 4: Add Pizza Toppings
Remove the tray from the oven.
- Spoon a small amount of pizza sauce onto each potato
- Sprinkle generously with mozzarella cheese
- Top with pepperoni or your favorite toppings
Be careful not to overload them—too much sauce can soften the crispy edges.
Step 5: Bake Again
Return the potatoes to the oven and bake for another 8–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
If you love extra browning, switch to broil for the last 1–2 minutes (keep a close eye on them!).
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil, Parmesan, or red pepper flakes.
Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Extra Tips
Serving Suggestions
Crispy Pizza Smashed Potatoes are incredibly versatile:
- Serve as a party appetizer with extra pizza sauce for dipping
- Pair with a fresh green salad for balance
- Add them to a game-day spread with wings and dips
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or burgers
They’re also perfect as a fun alternative to traditional pizza night.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheating:
- Oven or air fryer at 375°F for 8–10 minutes (best method)
- Avoid the microwave if possible—it softens the crispiness
Ingredient Swaps & Variations
Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, try these fun twists:
- Margherita Style: Fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil
- BBQ Pizza Potatoes: BBQ sauce, chicken, red onion
- White Pizza: Alfredo sauce, mozzarella, garlic, spinach
- Spicy Version: Jalapeños, chili flakes, hot honey drizzle
- Breakfast Pizza Potatoes: Cheese, breakfast sausage, cracked egg
This recipe is a blank canvas for creativity.
Nutritional Information
Based on data from Hungry Happens:
https://hungryhappens.net/crispy-pizza-smashed-potatoes/
Approximate per serving:
- Calories: ~220
- Carbohydrates: ~28g
- Protein: ~8g
- Fat: ~9g
- Fiber: ~3g
- Sodium: ~420mg
Values will vary depending on toppings and cheese amounts.
FAQ Section
How long does it take to make Crispy Pizza Smashed Potatoes?
About 45–55 minutes total, including boiling and baking time.
Can I substitute mozzarella cheese?
Yes! Try provolone, cheddar, fontina, or a dairy-free alternative.
Can I freeze Crispy Pizza Smashed Potatoes?
You can freeze the smashed-and-roasted potatoes before adding toppings. Reheat, then add sauce and cheese fresh for best results.
Why aren’t my potatoes crispy?
Make sure:
- The oven is hot enough
- You use enough oil
- You don’t overcrowd the pan
Crispiness needs space and heat.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Absolutely. Cook in batches at 400°F until crispy, then add toppings and cook until melted.
Conclusion
Crispy Pizza Smashed Potatoes are proof that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated to be incredible. They’re crunchy, cheesy, nostalgic, and endlessly customizable—everything we love about pizza, wrapped up in a crispy potato base.
This is the kind of recipe that brings people together. It’s fun to make, even more fun to eat, and guaranteed to spark conversations like, “Okay, who brought these?”
Give them a try, make them your own, and don’t forget to share the recipe and leave a comment with your favorite toppings. Happy cooking 🍕🥔