Pizza: Your Canvas for Menu Innovation

From fast-casual spots to fine dining operations, pizza appears on a third of all menus. And according to operators, it’s not going anywhere, with 47% expecting pizza sales to increase.¹ Diners can’t get enough, as 66% say they’ve had pizza within the week.¹ The only thing that’s changing is what’s on top: global influences, regional mashups, and out-of-left-field toppings like mashed potatoes. Consumers say the most important factor in a pizza is the toppings—in fact, 69% said great toppings are “extremely important.”¹

What does all this mean for your operation? Well, pizza is the ultimate canvas for creative ingredient choices, so don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Operators are getting bolder with fusion flavors, comfort food crossovers, and premium ingredient pairings, and consumers are eating it up (literally).

Pizza and Mashed Potatoes: A Mashup Made in Topping Heaven

Of all the trending pizza toppings growing out there, mashed potatoes just may be the one you don’t want to miss out on. Why?

• Mashed potatoes may already be on your menu, offering an easy road to innovation.
• They’re a flexible ingredient that can be adjusted for seasonal limited-time offers. Think classic mashed for those cold winter nights, redskin mashed for bright summer days, and sweet potato mashed for some seasonal fall spice.
• Finally, the uniqueness factor can create a specialty pizza worthy of social media buzz without adding expensive, supply-constrained ingredients.

Real-World Success with Pizza and Potatoes

Across the country, chefs are pushing the boundaries of what can go on a pizza. At Pizzaiolo in Oakland, California, seasonal combinations shine, like the restaurant’s standout pizza topped with potatoes, pancetta, fontina, rosemary, and a fried egg. Meanwhile, Bar in New Haven, Connecticut, has achieved cult status with its signature mashed potato pizza, which has become a menu staple and customer obsession. Mashed potatoes are even appearing in mashups, such as at Pizza Lucé in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Its Baked Potato Pizza features a garlic mashed potato base and broccoli, tomato, cheddar cheese, and bacon toppings. In Maine, Portland Pie offers a super comforting, twice-baked potato pizza with mashed potatoes, caramelized onions, bacon, and cheddar. The mouthwatering possibilities are endless.

A Slice of Mashed Potato Inspiration

Ready to try your own unique pizza build? Consider these sensational combos:

• Mashed Potato Pizza with Roasted Brussels Sprouts, Bacon, and Caramelized Onions: Start with a smooth mashed potato base and top with roasted sprouts, crispy bacon, and sweet caramelized onions for a visually striking, flavor-packed option.
• Savory Sting Pizza: Sweet heat meets comfort when creamy mashed potatoes join spicy sausage, feta, and a hot honey drizzle.
• Jamaican Jerk Pizza: Mashed potatoes pair with spicy jerk chicken, mozzarella, pineapple salsa, and habanero aioli for an island-inspired twist.

Top It All Off

If you’re looking to break the mold with your pizza menu and create memorable items your guests will return for, think beyond the usual toppings. Mashed potatoes deliver comfort, versatility, and innovation all in one scoop. Explore our products, more recipes, and other resources to maximize your creativity.

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¹SNAP! Keynote, Pizza, Datassential, 2024