Coatings are disclosed which provide single-layer-coated paperboard having good smoothness and printability. Low density organic pigments (LDOP) are used in some of the coatings. Certain coatings when applied as single-layer coatings at 6 lb/3000 ft2 (9.8 g/m2) and higher gave Parker PrintSurf values less than 2.5 microns. Certain coatings when applied as base coats and then top coated gave PrintSurf values less than 2.0 microns for uncalendered samples.