Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, don’t you think? Whether mashed, fried, baked, or scalloped, these starchy gems always find a way into our hearts (and bellies). They’re versatile, satisfying, and a universal favorite. But just when we thought we’d seen it all, a viral TikTok recipe has turned this humble veggie into a sensational dish we didn’t know we needed: Smashed Jacket Potato Pizza.
Yes, you read that right—potatoes and pizza, together at last. If your mouth isn’t watering yet, keep reading because this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
What Exactly Is a Smashed Jacket Potato Pizza?
Think of it as the perfect mash-up (pun intended) of two comfort food classics: pizza and baked potatoes. This recipe starts with baked potatoes, smashes them flat to create a pizza-like base, crisps them up in the oven, and then piles on your favorite pizza toppings. It’s crispy, cheesy, saucy, and everything you love about both dishes combined into one irresistible meal.
The concept comes courtesy of TikTok creator @emilyscooking_, whose video has gone viral for all the right reasons. Her version includes tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni, but the beauty of this dish lies in its endless customization possibilities.
How to Make Smashed Jacket Potato Pizza
Ready to try it yourself? Here’s a step-by-step guide that will have you whipping up this genius dish in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large baked potatoes (cooled to handle)
- 2-3 tablespoons garlic butter (melted)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Toppings of your choice (pepperoni, veggies, etc.)
Instructions:
- Prep Your Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and brush it generously with garlic butter. Sprinkle Parmesan and cheddar cheese directly onto the parchment in small piles, spaced out to accommodate your potatoes. - Smash the Potatoes
Place a baked potato on top of each cheese pile. Using the bottom of a pan or a large, flat spatula, gently smash the potatoes until they’re about ½ inch thick. Don’t worry if they’re a bit uneven—that’s part of the charm! Brush the tops with more garlic butter. - Bake Until Crispy
Pop the smashed potatoes into the oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and slightly crispy. This step is key to achieving the perfect potato crust. - Add Your Toppings
Remove the potatoes from the oven and spread tomato sauce over each one. Sprinkle generously with mozzarella cheese and add your chosen toppings—pepperoni, veggies, or even leftover roasted chicken. - Bake Again
Return the tray to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. - Serve and Enjoy
Let the Smashed Jacket Potato Pizzas cool slightly before serving. Pair them with your favorite dips like ranch, marinara, or garlic aioli for an extra layer of flavor.
Creative Twists to Make It Your Own
The beauty of Smashed Jacket Potato Pizza is its versatility. You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
1. BBQ Bliss
Swap out tomato sauce for BBQ sauce and top with shredded pulled pork, red onions, and a sprinkle of smoked Gouda.
2. Vegetarian Delight
Load up on fresh veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach. Add a sprinkle of feta cheese for a tangy twist.
3. Sweet and Savory
Use sweet potatoes as your base and top with prosciutto, arugula, and a drizzle of honey for a gourmet spin.
4. Party-Perfect Minis
Use small potatoes (like baby reds or fingerlings) and create mini versions with various toppings. They’re ideal for appetizers or party snacks.
5. Festive Flair
For a visually stunning platter, use a mix of white, red, and blue potatoes. Perfect for holidays or special occasions!
Why This Recipe Is a Game-Changer
Let’s be honest: potatoes and pizza are both universally loved. Combining them is like uniting two superstars for a blockbuster hit. Here’s why this dish is a must-try:
- Simplicity: It’s easy to make with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
- Customizable: Whether you’re a meat lover, vegetarian, or somewhere in between, you can adapt this recipe to fit your taste.
- Crowd-Pleaser: From picky kids to gourmet foodies, everyone will be asking for seconds.
- Comforting and Fun: It’s a dish that feels indulgent but also brings a playful twist to dinner.
Final Thoughts
Smashed Jacket Potato Pizza is more than just a recipe—it’s a revelation. It combines the comforting familiarity of baked potatoes with the universally beloved flavors of pizza, creating a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a creative way to use leftover baked potatoes, or an impressive dish for your next gathering, this recipe ticks all the boxes.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab some potatoes and get smashing—you won’t regret it!
