Introduction
Experience the perfect fusion of pizza and potato cakes with this innovative recipe. These Potato Pizza Cakes combine the comfort of mashed potatoes with the satisfaction of fresh-baked bread, all enhanced by melted cheese and aromatic seasonings. This unique dish brings together the best of Eastern European comfort food and Italian-inspired flavors, creating an irresistible meal that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 150ml (⅔ cup) whole milk, warm
- 150ml (⅔ cup) water, warm
- 1 tablespoon (15g) sugar
- 0.5 teaspoon (3g) salt
- 2 tablespoons (30g) sour cream
- 7g (2¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 570g (4½ cups) all-purpose flour
For the Filling:
- 500g (1.1 lbs) potatoes, boiled and mashed
- 1 medium onion (about 150g or 1 cup when chopped)
- 30g (2 tablespoons) butter, softened
- 100g (1 cup) grated cheese, plus extra for topping
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 bunch fresh dill, chopped (about ¼ cup)
For the Topping:
- 30ml (2 tablespoons) vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground sweet paprika
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Combine warm milk and water in a large bowl
- Add sugar, salt, sour cream, and yeast
- Stir until yeast dissolves completely
- Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms
- Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic
- Place in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap
- Let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Peel and boil potatoes until tender
- Finely chop onion and sauté until golden brown
- Mash potatoes while still warm
- Mix in butter, cheese, fried onions, chopped dill
- Season with salt and pepper
- Divide into 9 equal portions and shape into balls
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F)
- Divide dough into 9 equal pieces
- Roll each piece into a 15cm (6-inch) circle
- Place potato filling in center of each circle
- Wrap dough around filling, pinching to seal
- Place seam-side down on baking sheet
- Mix oil, minced garlic, and paprika
- Brush tops with garlic-paprika oil
- Sprinkle with additional cheese
- Bake for 30 minutes until golden brown
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 cake):
- Calories: 380
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 390mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 55g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 11g
Timing
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Rising Time: 1 hour
- Bake Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Tips and Tricks
- Use russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for best texture
- Ensure milk and water are warm (110-115°F) for proper yeast activation
- Let potatoes cool slightly before adding cheese to prevent melting
- Don’t overmix mashed potatoes to avoid gumminess
- Score tops lightly before adding oil mixture for decorative effect
- Rotate baking sheet halfway through for even browning
Variations and Substitutions
- Use different cheese varieties (cheddar, mozzarella, gruyere)
- Add cooked bacon bits to the filling
- Include sautéed mushrooms in the potato mixture
- Use roasted garlic instead of fresh
- Add herbs like rosemary or thyme
- Make it spicy with cayenne pepper or chili flakes
Common FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Let come to room temperature before baking.
Can I freeze these pizza cakes?
Yes, freeze after baking. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes.
What type of cheese works best?
Semi-hard cheeses like cheddar, Gouda, or a pizza cheese blend work well.
Why isn’t my dough rising?
Ensure your yeast is fresh and liquids are warm but not hot.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Store baked cakes in airtight container for up to 3 days
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days
- Freeze for up to 3 months
- Reheat in oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes
- Unbaked assembled cakes can be refrigerated overnight
- Prepare potato filling up to 2 days ahead
- Make dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate
These Potato Pizza Cakes combine the best of both worlds – the comfort of mashed potatoes and the satisfaction of freshly baked bread. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or any time you want to serve something uniquely delicious!
