This Pepperoni and Roasted Jalapeno Pesto Pan Pizza combines the classic flavors of pepperoni with a spicy twist from the roasted jalapeno pesto. Topped with gooey mozzarella and parmesan cheeses, it’s the perfect balance of heat and savory goodness.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pizza dough
- 1/2 cup roasted jalapeno pesto
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- Roll out the pizza dough on a baking sheet.
- Spread the roasted jalapeno pesto over the dough.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the pesto.
- Arrange the pepperoni slices on top of the cheese.
- Sprinkle the parmesan cheese over the pepperoni.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
- Slice and serve hot.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the pepperoni with vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
- Extra Heat: For a spicier pizza, add extra roasted jalapenos or drizzle some hot sauce over the top after baking.
- Cheese Variety: Swap the mozzarella with provolone, gouda, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor.
- Thin Crust: Use a thinner pizza dough for a crispier crust.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes to restore crispness, or microwave for a quicker option.
10 FAQs
- Can I use homemade pizza dough?
- Yes, you can use your favorite homemade pizza dough for a more personalized touch.
- Can I use a different type of pesto?
- Yes, feel free to substitute the roasted jalapeno pesto with traditional basil pesto or sun-dried tomato pesto for a different flavor.
- Can I freeze this pizza?
- Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pizza on a baking sheet, then transfer it to a plastic wrap or freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- What other toppings would pair well with this pizza?
- Try adding olives, red onions, or fresh basil for added flavor.
- How can I make this pizza spicier?
- Add extra roasted jalapenos, sprinkle chili flakes, or drizzle with a spicy hot sauce before serving.
- Can I use pre-sliced pepperoni?
- Yes, pre-sliced pepperoni works just as well as the traditional sliced ones. Simply layer them evenly over the pizza.
- Can I make this pizza dairy-free?
- Yes, use dairy-free cheese alternatives like vegan mozzarella and skip the parmesan cheese.
- What if I don’t have pesto?
- You can substitute with a simple tomato sauce or any other sauce of your choice, though the unique flavor of pesto adds a special touch to this pizza.
- How do I know when the pizza is done?
- The pizza is done when the crust is golden brown, and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
- Can I add meat other than pepperoni?
- Yes, sausage, bacon, or even grilled chicken would be great options to complement the pesto sauce.
Conclusion
The Pepperoni and Roasted Jalapeno Pesto Pan Pizza is a perfect combination of spicy, savory, and cheesy goodness. With its bold flavors and easy preparation, it’s a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
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Pepperoni and Roasted Jalapeno Pesto Pan Pizza
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
A rich and creamy pasta dish packed with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a flavorful ranch dressing sauce. Topped with melted cheddar and fresh parsley, this comforting dish is perfect for any dinner occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the diced chicken over medium heat until no longer pink.
- Add the cooked bacon, ranch dressing, and shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can use low-fat ranch dressing and reduced-fat cheddar cheese.
- Feel free to swap penne for other pasta shapes like rotini or fusilli for a different texture.
- Add some extra veggies like spinach or broccoli to make it more hearty and colorful.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes