Description: Sweet, smoky, and savory—this barbecue bacon pizza is loaded with bold flavors from tangy BBQ sauce, crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and your favorite toppings. A guaranteed hit for pizza night. This recipe elevates the classic pizza experience by combining the irresistible flavors of barbecue, bacon, and cheese. It’s perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, a game-day gathering, or any occasion where you want a crowd-pleasing dish. The combination of sweet and smoky barbecue sauce, crispy bacon, and melted mozzarella creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The addition of red onion adds a sharp, tangy bite, while the optional red pepper flakes provide a subtle kick. Whether you use store-bought dough for convenience or make your own for a truly homemade experience, this recipe is versatile and easy to customize. Feel free to add your favorite toppings like grilled chicken, pineapple, or jalapenos to create your own signature barbecue bacon pizza. This recipe is designed to be simple and straightforward, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, gourmet-style pizza without spending hours in the kitchen. The key is to use high-quality ingredients and to not overcrowd the pizza, ensuring that each flavor shines through. The crust should be crisp and golden, the cheese bubbly and melted, and the bacon perfectly crisp. It’s a delightful dish that brings together the best of comfort food with a unique twist.
Ingredients:
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade) – The foundation of our pizza. Store-bought dough offers convenience, while homemade dough provides a unique, personalized touch.
- ½ cup barbecue sauce – The tangy and sweet base. Choose your favorite brand or variety for a customized flavor.
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese – The gooey, melty goodness that binds everything together. Low-moisture mozzarella is recommended for optimal melting and texture.
- ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon – The star of the show! Crispy bacon adds a smoky, savory crunch that complements the barbecue sauce perfectly.
- ½ cup cooked, shredded chicken (optional) – An excellent addition for extra protein and heartiness. Grilled or rotisserie chicken works well.
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion – Adds a sharp, tangy bite that cuts through the richness of the other ingredients.
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – For a touch of heat and spice. Adjust the amount to your preference.
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish) – Adds a pop of freshness and visual appeal.
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up while you prepare the pizza. Preheating the stone or sheet is crucial for achieving a crispy crust. The high temperature ensures that the pizza cooks quickly and evenly.
Step 2: On a lightly floured surface, roll or stretch the pizza dough into a 12-inch circle. Aim for a uniform thickness to ensure even cooking. If using store-bought dough, let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes to make it easier to work with.
Step 3: Transfer the rolled-out dough to a piece of parchment paper. This makes it easy to transfer the pizza to the hot stone or baking sheet without making a mess.
Step 4: Spread the barbecue sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Don’t overdo it with the sauce, as too much can make the crust soggy.
Step 5: Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the barbecue sauce, creating a generous layer of cheesy goodness. Make sure to cover the entire surface, but avoid piling it too high.
Step 6: Add the cooked, crumbled bacon, shredded chicken (if using), and thinly sliced red onion. Distribute the toppings evenly for balanced flavor in every bite.
Step 7: If desired, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the toppings for a touch of heat. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference.
Step 8: Carefully transfer the pizza with the parchment paper onto the hot pizza stone or baking sheet in the preheated oven. The hot surface will help to create a crispy crust.
Step 9: Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted. Keep a close eye on the pizza to prevent burning.
Step 10: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. Sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro for a fresh, vibrant garnish.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Barbecue Bacon Pizza is a winner for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make, even for novice cooks. The recipe requires minimal preparation and cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Secondly, the combination of flavors is simply irresistible. The sweet and tangy barbecue sauce, smoky bacon, and gooey mozzarella create a harmonious blend that appeals to a wide range of palates. The addition of red onion and cilantro adds a refreshing contrast, preventing the pizza from becoming too heavy or monotonous. Moreover, this recipe is highly customizable. You can easily swap out the toppings to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For example, you can add pineapple for a tropical twist, jalapenos for extra heat, or vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms for added nutrition. Lastly, this pizza is a crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for parties, game-day gatherings, or simply a fun family dinner.
COOKING Rating
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the pizza hot, fresh out of the oven.
- Pair it with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
- Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing, for added flavor.
- Serve with a side of coleslaw or potato salad for a classic barbecue-inspired meal.
- Enjoy with your favorite beverage, such as iced tea, lemonade, or beer.
Tips:
- For a crispier crust, preheat your pizza stone or baking sheet for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- If using store-bought dough, let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes to make it easier to work with.
- Don’t overload the pizza with toppings, as this can make the crust soggy.
- If you don’t have a pizza stone, you can use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- For a spicier pizza, add more crushed red pepper flakes or use a spicy barbecue sauce.
- Get creative with your toppings! Try adding pineapple, jalapenos, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
12 minutes
Total Time:
27 minutes
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 420 Kcal per slice (based on 8 slices) Protein: 20g (estimated) Sodium: 700mg (estimated)
Conclusion
This Barbecue Bacon Pizza is a surefire way to impress your family and friends. With its irresistible combination of flavors, easy preparation, and customizable nature, it’s a recipe that you’ll turn to again and again. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a casual dinner, or simply craving a delicious homemade pizza, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a pizza experience like no other! The smoky bacon, tangy barbecue sauce, and gooey cheese create a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. It’s a culinary adventure that brings the best of barbecue flavors to your pizza night, making every slice a delightful experience. This recipe is more than just a pizza; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that come together in perfect harmony. From the crispy crust to the bubbly cheese and the savory toppings, every element is carefully balanced to create a truly unforgettable dish. So go ahead, give it a try, and discover why this Barbecue Bacon Pizza is a must-have recipe for any pizza lover.
Questions and Answers about this Recipe
Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! While mozzarella is the classic choice for pizza, you can experiment with other cheeses to suit your taste. Provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses would all work well. Just keep in mind that different cheeses have different melting properties, so the texture and flavor of the pizza may vary slightly.
Q2: Can I make this pizza ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the dough and toppings ahead of time, but it’s best to bake the pizza just before serving for optimal flavor and texture. If you need to prep in advance, roll out the dough and store it in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap. You can also chop the vegetables and cook the bacon ahead of time and store them in separate containers in the refrigerator. Assemble the pizza just before baking.
Q3: Can I grill this pizza instead of baking it in the oven?
A: Yes, grilling the pizza is a great option, especially during the summer months. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Place the pizza dough directly on the grill and cook for a few minutes until the bottom is slightly charred. Then, flip the dough and add the toppings. Close the lid and cook for another few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Q4: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Certainly! Simply omit the bacon and chicken from the recipe. You can add other vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini, to compensate for the missing protein. You can also add a vegetarian bacon substitute for a similar flavor profile.
Q5: How can I make the crust crispier?
A: There are several ways to achieve a crispier crust. First, make sure your pizza stone or baking sheet is preheated for at least 30 minutes before baking. Second, use a high-quality pizza dough that is not too wet. Third, avoid overloading the pizza with toppings, as this can make the crust soggy. Finally, you can brush the crust with olive oil before baking to help it crisp up.
