Pizza Fries Recipe
Pizza fries combine crispy baked potato wedges with melted mozzarella, pepperoni, and Italian seasonings for a satisfying main course that merges two beloved dishes. This Italian-inspired comfort food delivers the flavors of pizza in a handheld, shareable format. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping to complete the experience.
Ingredients
- 1.2 kg (2.6 lb) russet potatoes, cut into 8 mm (⅜ inch) wedges
- 45 ml (3 tablespoons) olive oil
- 8 g (1.5 teaspoons) dried oregano
- 4 g (1 teaspoon) garlic powder
- 4 g (1 teaspoon) kosher salt
- 2 g (½ teaspoon) freshly cracked black pepper
- 200 g (7 oz) whole milk mozzarella, shredded
- 80 g (2.8 oz) sliced pepperoni
- 30 g (1 oz) grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
- 15 ml (1 tablespoon) fresh basil, chopped
- 240 ml (1 cup) marinara sauce for serving
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
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Wash potatoes and cut them into uniform 8 mm wedges. Pat completely dry with paper towels to remove surface moisture.
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In a large bowl, combine olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the dried potato wedges and toss until evenly coated.
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Spread wedges in a single layer on prepared baking sheets. Bake for 20-22 minutes, stirring halfway through, until edges are golden and potatoes are tender.
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Remove baking sheets from oven. Distribute mozzarella evenly over the hot fries, then arrange pepperoni slices on top.
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Return to oven for 8-10 minutes until cheese is completely melted and pepperoni edges curl slightly.
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Remove from oven and sprinkle immediately with Parmigiano-Reggiano and fresh basil while cheese is still hot.
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Transfer to a serving platter and serve immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Substitutions
- Use dairy-free mozzarella alternative for lactose-free option; reduce final baking time by 1-2 minutes as it melts faster
- Replace pepperoni with sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for vegetarian version
- Substitute sweet potatoes for russet potatoes and reduce initial baking time to 18 minutes
- Use fresh mozzarella (fior di latte) instead of whole milk mozzarella for creamier texture
Tips
- Pat potatoes completely dry after washing to ensure crispiness; moisture prevents proper browning
- Cut all wedges to uniform thickness so they cook evenly; thinner pieces will crisp while thicker stay tender
- Add cheese and pepperoni only after the first bake to prevent cheese from burning; timing is critical for perfect melt
- Serve immediately while cheese is hot and peaked; the dish loses texture and appeal as it cools
Pizza fries represent modern Italian-American fusion cooking, combining the casual comfort of American-style potato fries with authentic pizza toppings and seasonings from southern Italy. This creative dish reflects how Italian cuisine continuously evolves outside Italy while maintaining its core flavor principles of quality mozzarella, tomato, and aromatic herbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Pizza Fries Recipe take to make?
Pizza Fries Recipe takes about 50 minutes total — 15 minutes of prep and 35 minutes of cooking — and makes 4 servings.
What can I substitute in Pizza Fries Recipe?
You can adapt it easily: Use dairy-free mozzarella alternative for lactose-free option; reduce final baking time by 1-2 minutes as it melts faster; Replace pepperoni with sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for vegetarian version; Substitute sweet potatoes for russet potatoes and reduce initial baking time to 18 minutes.
How should I store leftover Pizza Fries Recipe?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days and reheat gently before serving.
How much protein is in Pizza Fries Recipe?
Each serving of Pizza Fries Recipe has about 28g of protein and 695 calories.
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