Pizza Stuffed Potato Nests

These Pizza Stuffed Potato Nests are a fun mash-up of two favorites: pizza and mashed potatoes. Golden potato nests are filled with marinara, sausage and pepperoni, then smothered in bubbly mozzarella.

Crispy mashed potato nests filled with marinara, pepperoni, Italian sausage and gooey mozzarella. Pizza night meets comfort food! They're a great gluten-free alternative to pizza crust and a sure way to get picky eaters excited about dinner. Let everyone choose their own toppings for a fun family meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Pizza flavor in a fun new form
• Gluten-free friendly
• Customizable with any toppings
• Kids absolutely love them

Ingredients for Pizza Stuffed Potato Nests

• 2 1/2 lbs (1.1 kg) russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 3 tbsp butter
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 lb (225 g) Italian sausage, browned and crumbled
• 1 cup (240 ml) marinara or pizza sauce
• 24 mini pepperoni slices (or 12 regular, quartered)
• 1/2 cup (75 g) diced green bell pepper
• 1 1/2 cups (150 g) shredded mozzarella
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Ingredient Notes

• Sauce: Use a thick pizza sauce or marinara so the nests stay crisp.
• Pepperoni: Mini pepperoni crisps up beautifully into little cups.
• Mozzarella: Low-moisture mozzarella melts best without getting watery.

Full measurements and printable instructions are in the recipe card below.

How to Make Pizza Stuffed Potato Nests

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

Boil the potatoes in salted water for 15-18 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well and let them steam dry for 2 minutes.

Step 3

Mash the potatoes with the butter, then stir in the egg yolks, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt and pepper until smooth.

Step 4

Divide the mash into 8 mounds on the baking sheet. Use the back of a spoon to press a deep well in the center of each to form a nest with tall sides.

Step 5

Bake the empty nests for 15 minutes until they start to firm up and turn lightly golden.

Step 6

Spoon 1-2 tablespoons of marinara into each nest.

Step 7

Add the sausage, bell pepper and half the pepperoni.

Step 8

Top with mozzarella, the remaining pepperoni and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.

Step 9

Bake 12-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the pepperoni is crisp.

Step 10

Garnish with basil and serve with extra warm marinara.

Tips for the Best Results

• Don't overfill with sauce or the nests may get soggy.
• Use pre-cooked toppings.
• Broil 1-2 minutes at the end for extra browned cheese.

Variations to Try

• Make a veggie version with olives, peppers and mushrooms.
• Try BBQ chicken pizza nests.
• Add ricotta for a white pizza twist.

What to Serve With It

Serve with a Caesar salad, garlic knots or roasted broccoli.

Storage and Reheating

Use your favorite pizza toppings; just keep wet veggies like mushrooms pre-cooked. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer for 8-10 minutes to keep the edges crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?

Yes, about 4 cups. Mix in egg yolks and Parmesan first.

Are these gluten-free?

Yes, if your sausage and pepperoni are gluten-free.

Can I reheat them?

Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F to keep them crispy.

Final Thoughts

Pizza night will never be the same! These cheesy potato nests are fun to make and even more fun to eat.

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