Imagine biting into the most irresistible fusion of comfort food that combines the crispy goodness of baked potatoes with the mouthwatering flavors of pizza. These Crunchy Pizza Potato Cups are about to become your new obsession - a game-changing recipe that transforms ordinary potatoes into a crowd-pleasing sensation that will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for game nights, parties, or when you're craving something uniquely delicious, these potato cups are the ultimate crowd-pleaser that bridges the gap between classic comfort food and gourmet appetizers.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, baked and hollowed
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Italian seasoning to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the baked potatoes by washing them thoroughly. Pierce each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Bake the potatoes directly on the oven rack for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until they are completely soft when pierced with a fork.
- Remove potatoes from the oven and let them cool for 10 minutes until they are comfortable to handle.
- Carefully cut each potato in half lengthwise and gently scoop out the interior, leaving a thin layer of potato attached to the skin to create a sturdy cup.
- Brush the inside of each potato cup with a light coating of olive oil to enhance crispiness.
- Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce inside each potato cup, ensuring even coverage.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously into each potato cup.
- Arrange pepperoni slices on top of the cheese, distributing them evenly.
- Dust the filled potato cups with Italian seasoning and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Place the potato cups back on the prepared baking sheet and return to the oven.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and the edges of the potato cups are golden and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 3-5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.
- Garnish with additional fresh herbs like basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot as an appetizer or side dish.
Tips
- Choose the right potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russet for the best texture and easiest hollowing.
- Ensure even baking by selecting potatoes of similar size and piercing them thoroughly before initial baking.
- Let potatoes cool slightly before scooping to prevent burning your hands and to help maintain the potato's structure.
- For extra crispiness, brush potato cups with olive oil and consider broiling for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
- Don't overload the cups - a thin layer of sauce and moderate cheese helps maintain the structural integrity.
- Experiment with toppings: Try different cheeses, swap pepperoni for vegetarian options, or add fresh herbs for extra flavor.
- Serve immediately for the best texture, as the potato cups can become soggy if left sitting too long.
- For meal prep, you can partially prepare the cups in advance and finish baking just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
