Name: Potato Crust Pizza Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb sweet Italian sausage; 6 cups frozen hash brown potatoes; 2 cups Mozzarella cheese; ¼ tsp salt; 4 roma plum tomatoes; 4 oz mushrooms

Looking for a unique spin on classic pizza? This potato crust pizza recipe is a delicious alternative. Crispy hash brown potatoes form the base of this pizza, topped with savoury sweet Italian sausage, melted mozzarella cheese, fresh roma tomatoes, and earthy mushrooms. This delightful dish is sure to impress at your next family dinner or gathering.

Photos of Potato Crust Pizza Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in supermarkets. However, you might need to specifically look for sweet Italian sausage, which is known for its unique blend of spices and sweet flavor. If you have difficulty finding it, you can replace it with your favorite sausage. Also, keep in mind that Roma (or plum) tomatoes are used in this recipe due to their low moisture content and sweet flavor, making them perfect for this pizza.

Ingredients for Potato Crust Pizza

Sweet Italian sausage: A type of sausage known for its slightly sweet taste and unique blend of Italian spices.

Frozen hash brown potatoes: These are used as the base for the pizza crust, giving it a unique, crispy texture.

Mozzarella cheese: With its mild flavor and excellent melting qualities, it is ideal for topping pizza.

Salt: Enhances the other flavors.

Roma plum tomatoes: These tomatoes have less juice which prevents the pizza from becoming soggy.

Mushrooms: These add an earthy flavor.

One reader, Ewart Heflin says:

This potato crust pizza recipe is a game-changer! The crispy hash brown crust adds a unique twist to traditional pizza. The combination of sweet Italian sausage, melted mozzarella, and fresh veggies creates a burst of flavors. It's easy to make and a hit with the whole family. Highly recommended!

Ewart Heflin

Key Techniques for Making Potato Crust Pizza

How to prepare the potato crust: Mix the hash browns, salt, and cheese in a large bowl and spread the mixture evenly on a pizza pan, then pack it down.

How to cook the sausage: Place the sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, stirring to crumble, until evenly browned. Drain the grease and set aside.

How to slice the tomatoes: Thinly slice the tomatoes and set them on paper towels to drain, preventing them from becoming watery when they cook.

How to assemble the pizza: After baking the crust, arrange the tomato slices on the pizza, then sprinkle the remaining cheese, mushrooms, and sausage evenly over the top before returning it to the oven.

How to cool the pizza: Allow the pizza to cool for at least 5 minutes before cutting it into slices.

How To Make Potato Crust Pizza

This is a unique pizza recipe that uses hash browns to make a crispy potato crust! It is then loaded with hearty sausages and toppings for a filling meal.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 45 minutes

Total: 55 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbsweet Italian sausage,casings removed, crumbled
6cupshash brown potatoes,frozen, thawed, shredded
2cupsmozzarella cheese,shredded, divided
¼tspsalt
4roma plum tomatoes
4ozmushrooms,(1 can), sliced, drained

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Coat a 16-inch pizza pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Place the sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring to crumble, until evenly browned. Drain the grease, and set aside.
In a large bowl, toss together the hash browns, salt, and ¾ cup of the cheese until evenly blended. Spread in an even layer on the pizza pan, and pack down.
Slice the tomatoes thinly, and set on paper towels to drain.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes in the preheated oven, until the crust is nicely browned on the top and bottom. Remove from the oven, and arrange tomato slices all over the pizza.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese, mushrooms and sausage evenly over the pizza. Return to the hot oven and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes, until cheese is melted.
Cool for at least 5 minutes before cutting into slices.
Serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 386.41kcal
Fat: 20.99g
Saturated Fat: 12.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.63g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.88g
Carbohydrates: 24.12g
Fiber: 2.99g
Sugar: 2.63g
Protein: 26.16g
Cholesterol: 74.83mg
Sodium: 793.47mg
Calcium: 404.77mg
Potassium: 750.89mg
Iron: 1.84mg
Vitamin A: 141.01µg
Vitamin C: 26.82mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Potato Crust Pizza

When preparing the hash brown potato crust, make sure to press the mixture firmly into the pan. This will ensure that the crust holds together and doesn't crumble when you slice the pizza. Additionally, draining the tomatoes on paper towels before adding them to the pizza helps to prevent the crust from becoming soggy. For an extra flavor boost, consider sautéing the mushrooms before adding them to the pizza. This will release their natural juices and intensify their flavor.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Potato Crust Pizza Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the sausage and slice the tomatoes in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Save time by using pre-shredded mozzarella cheese instead of shredding it yourself.

Opt for pre-sliced mushrooms: To save time, purchase pre-sliced mushrooms instead of slicing them yourself.

Multi-task: While the crust is baking, use that time to prepare the toppings to maximize efficiency.

Organize your workspace: Before starting, make sure all ingredients and utensils are easily accessible to avoid wasting time searching for items.

Invest in a good quality pizza pan: Using a high-quality pizza pan can help ensure even cooking and prevent sticking, saving time and effort in the long run.

Substitute Ingredients For Potato Crust Pizza Recipe

sweet italian sausage - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be seasoned with Italian herbs and spices to mimic the flavor of sweet Italian sausage.
frozen hash brown potatoes - Substitute with shredded zucchini: Shredded zucchini can provide a similar texture and can be seasoned to add flavor to the crust.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone cheese has a similar mild flavor and melts well, making it a good substitute for mozzarella.
roma plum tomatoes - Substitute with cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes can add a sweet and juicy burst of flavor, and their smaller size makes them a great alternative for topping the pizza.
mushrooms - Substitute with bell peppers: Bell peppers can add a crunchy texture and sweet flavor, similar to mushrooms, and provide a pop of color to the pizza.

Presentation Tips for a Delicious Potato Crust Pizza

Elevate the pizza crust: Instead of a traditional pizza crust, use a base of frozen hash brown potatoes to create a unique and flavorful crust that will surprise and delight the judges.
Artfully arrange the toppings: Take the time to carefully slice the plum tomatoes and arrange them in an eye-catching pattern on top of the pizza. This attention to detail will showcase your precision and culinary expertise.
Balance the flavors: Ensure that the sweet Italian sausage is evenly distributed and that the mozzarella cheese is perfectly melted, creating a harmonious blend of flavors in every bite.
Incorporate fresh herbs: Garnish the pizza with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor that will elevate the dish to a new level of sophistication.
Pay attention to texture: Consider adding a touch of crunch by incorporating thinly sliced mushrooms as a topping, providing a delightful contrast to the tender sausage and gooey cheese.
Present with finesse: When plating the pizza, use a delicate touch to ensure that each slice is impeccably arranged, demonstrating your attention to detail and commitment to delivering a visually stunning dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Potato Crust Pizza

Skillet: A skillet is a flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. It's a versatile tool for cooking the Italian sausage in this recipe.
Pizza pan: A pizza pan is a round, shallow pan with a flat bottom, designed to bake pizzas. It's essential for creating the potato crust pizza.
Paper towels: Paper towels are absorbent towels used to drain excess moisture from ingredients, such as the sliced tomatoes in this recipe.
Baking sheet: A baking sheet is a flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking and cooking. It's used to bake the potato crust for the pizza.
Skillet: A skillet is a versatile tool for cooking and is used to brown the Italian sausage in this recipe.
Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for slicing and preparing ingredients, such as the roma plum tomatoes and mushrooms in this recipe.

Storing and Freezing Potato Crust Pizza: A Guide

Allow the potato crust pizza to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the crust from becoming soggy and ensure that the toppings stay in place.
To store leftover pizza in the refrigerator, place the slices in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Properly stored, the pizza will last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
If you want to freeze the pizza for later consumption, follow these steps:
1. Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
2. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag, labeling it with the date of freezing.
3. Potato crust pizza can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat refrigerated pizza, place the slices on a baking sheet and heat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.
For frozen pizza slices, you can either:
1. Thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat them in the oven as described above, or
2. Place the frozen slices directly on a baking sheet and heat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.
To maintain the best quality and texture of the potato crust, it's recommended to consume the pizza within the suggested storage times and to reheat it in the oven rather than using a microwave, which can make the crust soggy.

How To Reheat Leftover Potato Crust Pizza

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover potato crust pizza slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted. This method helps restore the crispiness of the potato crust while evenly heating the toppings.
For a quicker option, use a toaster oven. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and place the pizza slices directly on the rack. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted. Keep an eye on the pizza to prevent burning.
If you prefer a softer crust, microwave the leftover pizza slices on a microwave-safe plate. Place a damp paper towel over the slices to prevent them from drying out. Microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, depending on the number of slices and your microwave's power. The tomatoes and mushrooms will be tender, and the cheese will be melted.
For a crispy crust without using an oven, reheat the pizza slices in a skillet or griddle. Place the skillet over medium heat and add the pizza slices. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted. This method helps create a crispy crust while melting the cheese and heating the sausage topping.
If you have an air fryer, use it to reheat your leftover potato crust pizza. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the pizza slices in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the toppings are heated through. This method provides a crispy crust without the need for additional oil.

Interesting Trivia About Potato Crust Pizza

Potato crust pizza is a unique and delicious alternative to traditional pizza crusts. It offers a gluten-free option for those with dietary restrictions and provides a crispy and flavorful base for your favorite pizza toppings.

Is Making Potato Crust Pizza at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this potato crust pizza recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of the ingredients in your area. While sweet Italian sausage and mozzarella cheese can be pricier, the use of frozen hash brown potatoes makes it more budget-friendly. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25. Considering the quantity and the satisfaction it brings, the overall verdict rating for this recipe would be 8 out of 10.

Is Potato Crust Pizza Healthy or Unhealthy?

This potato crust pizza recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The crust is made from hash browns, which are high in carbohydrates and often fried in oil, adding extra fat and calories.
The recipe calls for a significant amount of cheese, which is high in saturated fat and sodium.
Sausage is also high in saturated fat and sodium, and may contain preservatives and additives.
The recipe lacks fiber-rich ingredients, such as whole grains or vegetables, which are essential for a balanced diet.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the hash browns with shredded zucchini or cauliflower for a low-carb, nutrient-dense crust alternative. Squeeze out excess moisture before baking to ensure a crispy texture.
Use a reduced-fat cheese or a smaller amount of regular cheese to decrease the saturated fat content.
Opt for a leaner protein source, such as grilled chicken or turkey sausage, to reduce the amount of saturated fat.
Add more vegetables to the toppings, such as bell peppers, onions, and spinach, to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the pizza.
Use a whole wheat or cauliflower-based pizza crust for added fiber and nutrients.
Experiment with homemade tomato sauce using fresh herbs and spices, which can add flavor without relying on excessive amounts of cheese or meat.

Editor's Opinion on the Potato Crust Pizza Recipe

This potato crust pizza recipe offers a unique twist on a classic favorite. The combination of sweet Italian sausage, crispy hash brown crust, and flavorful toppings creates a delightful medley of textures and flavors. The use of roma tomatoes and mushrooms adds a fresh and earthy dimension to the dish, while the mozzarella cheese provides a gooey, indulgent finish. The recipe's simplicity and bold flavors make it a standout choice for a casual dinner or a fun gathering. It's a creative and satisfying take on traditional pizza that is sure to impress and delight your guests.

Enhance Your Potato Crust Pizza Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a garlic parmesan crust.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Crispy brussels sprouts drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze.

Honey Sriracha Glazed Carrots: Tender carrots roasted and glazed with a spicy honey sriracha sauce.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Potato Crust Pizza

Loaded Baked Potato Soup: This creamy and hearty soup is perfect for a cozy night in. It's loaded with bacon, cheddar cheese, and green onions for a delicious twist on a classic baked potato.

Italian Sausage and Pepper Pasta: This savory pasta dish is packed with flavor from sweet Italian sausage, bell peppers, and onions. It's a quick and easy meal that the whole family will love.

Fruit Tart with Vanilla Pastry Cream: Indulge in a delightful dessert with a buttery tart crust filled with vanilla pastry cream and topped with an assortment of fresh fruits. It's a beautiful and delicious treat for any occasion.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Potato Crust Pizza Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these delectable stuffed mushrooms, filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Indulge in the creamy goodness of this spinach and artichoke dip, served with warm, crispy bread for dipping. A crowd-pleasing appetizer that will leave everyone coming back for more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with molten chocolate when you cut into it. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and richness.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Create a creamy and luscious strawberry cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust. Top it with fresh strawberries and a drizzle of strawberry sauce for a burst of fruity flavor in every bite.

Why trust this Potato Crust Pizza Recipe:

This recipe offers a unique twist on traditional pizza by using sweet Italian sausage and a crispy potato crust. The combination of flavors and textures creates a delicious and satisfying dish that is sure to impress. With the addition of mozzarella cheese, roma tomatoes, and mushrooms, this recipe provides a well-balanced and flavorful meal. The step-by-step instructions ensure a successful outcome, and the use of high-quality ingredients guarantees a delicious result. Trust in this recipe to elevate your pizza experience and delight your taste buds with its savory and hearty flavors.

Share your thoughts on this Potato Crust Pizza Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

Can I use regular sausage instead of sweet Italian sausage?

Yes, you can use regular sausage if you prefer. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still work well with the other ingredients.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes, you can use fresh potatoes, but you will need to grate them and squeeze out any excess moisture before using them as a crust. This will ensure that the crust bakes properly.

Can I add other toppings to the pizza?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the toppings to your liking. You can add bell peppers, onions, olives, or any other toppings you enjoy on your pizza.

Can I make the pizza ahead of time and reheat it later?

While the pizza is best when fresh, you can make it ahead of time and reheat it in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This will help maintain the crispy texture of the crust.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use different types of cheese to suit your taste. Cheddar, provolone, or a blend of different cheeses can be used as a delicious alternative to mozzarella.