Baked Potato Pizza: A Deliciously Different Dinner Recipe
Are you tired of the same old pizza routine? Looking for a fun, creative, and satisfying way to enjoy both pizza and baked potatoes? Then look no further! This baked potato pizza recipe combines the comfort of a loaded baked potato with the deliciousness of a classic pizza, creating a surprisingly delightful and crowd-pleasing meal. It’s a fantastic way to use leftover baked potatoes, get creative with toppings, and enjoy a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different toppings and sauces to create your own signature baked potato pizza. Whether you’re a meat lover, a vegetarian, or prefer a spicy kick, the possibilities are endless!
Why Baked Potato Pizza?
You might be thinking, “Baked potato pizza? That sounds a little strange.” But trust me, the combination works! Here’s why:
* **Unique and Fun:** It’s a departure from the ordinary and a great conversation starter.
* **Comfort Food Fusion:** Combines two beloved comfort foods into one amazing dish.
* **Versatile and Customizable:** Adapt the recipe to your taste and dietary preferences.
* **Easy to Make:** Requires minimal effort and is perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Great for Leftovers:** An excellent way to use up leftover baked potatoes.
* **Kid-Friendly:** Kids will love creating their own personalized baked potato pizzas.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is very forgiving, and you can adjust the quantities of ingredients based on your preferences. Here’s a basic list to get you started:
* **Baked Potatoes:** 2-4 large baked potatoes, cooked and cooled slightly. Russet potatoes are a classic choice, but Yukon Gold or red potatoes also work well.
* **Olive Oil:** For brushing the potato halves.
* **Pizza Sauce:** Your favorite pizza sauce, store-bought or homemade. About 1/2 to 3/4 cup depending on potato size.
* **Cheese:** Shredded mozzarella cheese is a must, but feel free to add other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or Parmesan.
* **Toppings (Endless possibilities!):**
* **Meat:** Cooked and crumbled bacon, cooked sausage (Italian, breakfast, chorizo), pepperoni, ham, shredded chicken, pulled pork.
* **Vegetables:** Diced onions, bell peppers (red, green, yellow, orange), mushrooms, olives (black or green), tomatoes (diced or sliced), spinach, corn, jalapenos (for a spicy kick).
* **Herbs:** Fresh basil, oregano, parsley, chives.
* **Other:** Sour cream or Greek yogurt (for topping after baking), green onions, ranch dressing, hot sauce.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste.
Equipment
* Baking sheet
* Knife
* Cutting board
* Pizza cutter or knife
* Spoon or spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make delicious baked potato pizza:
**Step 1: Prepare the Baked Potatoes**
* If you don’t already have cooked baked potatoes, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the potatoes clean and pierce them several times with a fork. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until they are soft and easily pierced with a fork. Let them cool slightly before handling.
* Alternatively, you can microwave the potatoes for a quicker cooking time. Pierce them several times with a fork and microwave on high for 5-8 minutes, or until they are soft.
* Cut the baked potatoes in half lengthwise. Gently scoop out some of the potato flesh, leaving a border of about 1/4 inch. This will create a well for the toppings and prevent the pizza from becoming soggy. Reserve the scooped-out potato for another use, like mashed potatoes or potato soup.
**Step 2: Assemble the Pizza**
* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
* Lightly brush the cut sides of the potato halves with olive oil. This will help them crisp up in the oven.
* Season the potato halves with salt and pepper to taste.
* Spread pizza sauce evenly over the cut sides of the potato halves. Use enough sauce to cover the surface, but don’t overdo it, or the pizza will be soggy.
* Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
* Add your desired toppings. Get creative and layer them on! Remember to cook any raw meat toppings beforehand.
* Sprinkle a little more cheese on top of the toppings to help them adhere.
**Step 3: Bake the Pizza**
* Place the assembled baked potato pizzas on a baking sheet.
* Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown, and the potatoes are heated through. The exact baking time will depend on your oven and the thickness of the potato halves.
**Step 4: Garnish and Serve**
* Remove the baked potato pizzas from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
* Garnish with fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley.
* Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, if desired.
* Drizzle with ranch dressing or hot sauce for extra flavor.
* Slice the baked potato pizzas with a pizza cutter or knife, if desired.
* Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
* **Use Leftover Baked Potatoes:** This recipe is perfect for using up leftover baked potatoes. Just make sure they are stored properly in the refrigerator and are still fresh.
* **Get Creative with Toppings:** The possibilities are endless! Experiment with different combinations of meats, vegetables, cheeses, and sauces to create your own signature baked potato pizza.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Skip the meat toppings and load up on vegetables. Some great vegetarian options include mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, olives, spinach, corn, and tomatoes.
* **Make it Spicy:** Add jalapenos, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to give your baked potato pizza a spicy kick.
* **Use Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, provolone, Parmesan, or pepper jack.
* **Add a Garlic Butter Crust:** Before adding the sauce and toppings, brush the cut sides of the potato halves with garlic butter for an extra layer of flavor.
* **Make Mini Baked Potato Pizzas:** Use small potatoes like fingerling potatoes or baby potatoes to make mini baked potato pizzas that are perfect for appetizers or snacks.
* **Try Different Sauces:** Instead of pizza sauce, try using pesto, BBQ sauce, or Alfredo sauce as a base.
* **Use a Pizza Stone:** If you have a pizza stone, preheat it in the oven and bake the baked potato pizzas directly on the stone for a crispier crust.
* **Broil for Extra Crispness:** For an extra crispy top, broil the baked potato pizzas for a minute or two at the end of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
Baked potato pizza is a complete meal on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to make it even more enjoyable:
* **Serve with a Salad:** A simple green salad or a Caesar salad is a great accompaniment to baked potato pizza.
* **Serve with Soup:** A warm bowl of tomato soup or potato soup complements the baked potato pizza perfectly.
* **Serve as an Appetizer:** Cut the baked potato pizzas into smaller pieces and serve them as appetizers at a party or gathering.
* **Pair with a Drink:** A cold beer, a glass of wine, or a refreshing soda pairs well with baked potato pizza.
Make-Ahead Instructions
* You can bake the potatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to make the pizza, simply cut the potatoes in half and proceed with the recipe.
* You can also assemble the pizzas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply place them in the oven and bake as directed.
Storage Instructions
* Store leftover baked potato pizza in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
* Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
* You can also reheat in the microwave, but the crust may not be as crispy.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
*Note: Nutritional information will vary depending on the ingredients and toppings used.*
* Calories: 300-500 per serving
* Fat: 15-30g
* Saturated Fat: 8-15g
* Cholesterol: 40-80mg
* Sodium: 500-1000mg
* Carbohydrates: 30-50g
* Fiber: 5-10g
* Sugar: 5-10g
* Protein: 10-20g
Recipe Card
**Baked Potato Pizza**
**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 20 minutes
**Total Time:** 35 minutes
**Servings:** 2-4
**Ingredients:**
* 2-4 large baked potatoes, cooked and cooled slightly
* Olive oil, for brushing
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* 1/2-3/4 cup pizza sauce
* 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
* Toppings of your choice (cooked bacon, sausage, pepperoni, ham, chicken, vegetables, etc.)
* Optional toppings: sour cream, green onions, ranch dressing, hot sauce, fresh herbs
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut baked potatoes in half lengthwise. Gently scoop out some of the potato flesh, leaving a 1/4 inch border. Reserve scooped potato for other uses.
3. Lightly brush the cut sides of the potato halves with olive oil.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Spread pizza sauce evenly over the cut sides.
6. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
7. Add your desired toppings.
8. Sprinkle with a little more cheese.
9. Place the assembled pizzas on a baking sheet.
10. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Garnish with fresh herbs, sour cream, ranch dressing, or hot sauce, if desired.
12. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Enjoy Your Baked Potato Pizza!
This baked potato pizza recipe is a fun, delicious, and customizable way to enjoy a different kind of pizza. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or any time you’re craving something unique and satisfying. So gather your ingredients, get creative with your toppings, and enjoy this delicious twist on a classic comfort food!
Bon appétit!