Why Make This Recipe
Pepperoni Pizza is a classic favorite for many people. It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re having a movie night, a birthday party, or just a cozy dinner at home, this pizza is sure to satisfy. With its gooey cheese, savory pepperoni, and crispy crust, it’s hard to resist!
How to Make Pepperoni Pizza
Ingredients
- 1 container refrigerated pizza dough (Ensure it is at room temperature before rolling.)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (For brushing the dough.)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (Add more for stronger flavor if desired.)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (Can substitute with Italian herb mix.)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (Gooey and melty, essential for pizza.)
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese (Adds sharpness.)
- 5 ounces mini pepperonis (Can substitute with regular pepperoni slices.)
- ¼ cup pickled jalapeños, diced (For added spice.)
- to taste Marinara sauce for dipping (Optional, serve on the side.)
Directions
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Preparation: Preheat the oven to the temperature recommended on the pizza dough package. Make sure your pizza dough is at room temperature for easy rolling.
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Assembly: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into your desired shape. Transfer the dough to a pizza stone or baking sheet. Brush the surface of the dough with olive oil. Sprinkle minced garlic and Italian seasoning evenly over the top.
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Add the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, spreading it out to cover the dough. Scatter the mini pepperonis and diced jalapeños on top.
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Baking: Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for the time recommended on the dough package or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
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Serving: Allow the pizza to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping, if desired.
How to Serve Pepperoni Pizza
Slice the pizza into wedges and serve it hot. You can pair it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It is best enjoyed immediately, but can still be delicious the next day!
How to Store Pepperoni Pizza
If you have leftovers, let the pizza cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven or microwave before serving.
Tips to Make Pepperoni Pizza
- For a crispier crust, pre-bake the dough for a few minutes before adding toppings.
- Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or cheddar for a twist on flavor.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and jalapeños to suit your taste.
Variation
You can easily customize this pizza! Add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions. If you’re a fan of different meats, consider adding sausage or bacon.
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade pizza dough?
Yes, homemade pizza dough works great! Just ensure it’s stretched or rolled out to your desired thickness.
2. Can I freeze the leftover pizza?
Yes, you can freeze slices of the pizza. Just wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap before freezing.
3. What if I don’t have all the cheeses?
No problem! You can use any cheese you have on hand. Just make sure it melts well for the best results.