Pizza potatoes is an absolutely delightful dish that fills your belly with rich, comforting flavor. I love this recipe because it’s simple to make and a definite crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up this tasty treat even on your busiest days.
Level: Easy
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Yield: 4 servings
Description
This isn’t your typical pizza—it’s a creative twist that uses potatoes as the base. Instead of a regular crust, I use a box of scalloped potatoes and transform it into a pizza-style casserole. The dish is layered with a zesty tomato sauce, savory pepperoni, and plenty of melty mozzarella cheese. Baked to perfection, these pizza potatoes offer a satisfying blend of flavors and textures in every bite.
Ingredients
• 5 oz. box scalloped potatoes
• 14 oz. can Italian stewed tomatoes
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1/4 tsp. dried oregano
• 3 oz. package sliced pepperoni
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions
- Prepare the Casserole:
o Spray a 1 1/2 quart casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray.
o Add the scalloped potatoes and sauce mix from the box into the dish. - Make the Tomato Mixture:
o In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the Italian stewed tomatoes (with juice), water, and dried oregano.
o Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, remove the pan from the heat. - Combine & Assemble:
o Pour the tomato mixture evenly over the potatoes in the casserole dish. Stir until the ingredients are well combined.
o Arrange the pepperoni slices evenly on top. - Bake:
o Preheat your oven to 375°F.
o Bake the casserole for 50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. - Add the Cheese:
o Remove the dish from the oven, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
o Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. - Serve:
o Remove the dish from the oven and serve hot.
Process Details
• Mixing the Base: I start by combining the scalloped potatoes with their sauce, creating a smooth, flavorful base that holds everything together.
• Enhancing the Tomato Flavor: Bringing the tomato mixture to a boil helps to release its full flavor before it’s poured over the potatoes.
• Final Cheese Bake: Adding the cheese at the end and baking just a little longer lets the mozzarella melt beautifully without overcooking, giving you that classic pizza finish.
Tips for Success
• Stir Thoroughly: Make sure to mix the tomato sauce well so the oregano is evenly distributed for a consistent taste.
• Customize Your Toppings: If you like a bit of spice, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture.
• Watch the Cheese: Keep an eye on the mozzarella during the final bake to ensure it melts perfectly without browning too much.
Serving Ideas
• Main Dish: Enjoy these pizza potatoes as a hearty main course for a casual dinner.
• Party Appetizer: They make a fun and filling appetizer at family gatherings or parties.
• Side Dish: Serve them alongside a fresh salad or garlic bread to round out your meal.
Nutrition Info (Approximate per Serving):
• Calories: 350
• Fat: 15 grams
• Carbohydrates: 45 grams
• Protein: 8 grams
And there you have it—a delicious pizza potatoes recipe that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. This unique twist on pizza turns simple ingredients into a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do, and I’d love to hear your thoughts or any creative twists you add. Happy cooking!