Pizza Archives - Crazy for Crust https://www.crazyforcrust.com/recipes/savory/pizza/ Recipes... With a Slice of Life Sun, 23 Mar 2025 14:41:23 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 https://www.crazyforcrust.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/cropped-favicon-32x32.png Pizza Archives - Crazy for Crust https://www.crazyforcrust.com/recipes/savory/pizza/ 32 32 Copycat Mexican Pizza https://www.crazyforcrust.com/mexican-pizza/ https://www.crazyforcrust.com/mexican-pizza/#comments Wed, 12 Feb 2025 14:53:03 +0000 http://66.147.244.75/~crazyfp4/2011/05/mexican-pizza/ If you love the Taco Bell Mexican Pizza, but don’t always feel like leaving the house to go get it – this is a homemade Mexican pizza recipe copycat! Just like the original but made at home – anytime you want it – it’s so good! I love Taco Bell. I always have! When I…]]>

If you love the Taco Bell Mexican Pizza, but don’t always feel like leaving the house to go get it – this is a homemade Mexican pizza recipe copycat! Just like the original but made at home – anytime you want it – it’s so good!

sliced mexican pizza on a white plate.

I love Taco Bell. I always have! When I was young we’d always stop there with my friends after tap class and my go-to was a Mexican Pizza. I love the combination of taco meat to refried beans with the crunchy tortilla. For a hot minute there they took it off the menu and my heart sank – so I had to recreate it myself!

This easy recipe bakes the tortillas but has all the same ingredients the classic recipe has. You’re going to love it! And, if you are vegetarian, you are in luck! Check out my Vegetarian Mexican Pizza Recipe!

ingredients in mexican pizza laid out on a white counter.

Ingredient Notes

  • Flour Tortillas: These are the crust. You’ll need fajita size (6-inch round).
  • Taco Meat: You can use ground turkey or beef and your favorite taco seasoning. I start with the meat already cooked, making this the perfect leftover meal. We prefer reduced sodium taco seasoning but you can use your favorite.
  • Red Enchilada Sauce: This is the sauce we use in place of pizza sauce. It comes in a can or a jar – you can use green sauce if you prefer.

Click to see the recipe card below for full ingredients & instructions and below the recipe card for process shots.

process shot of mexican pizza.
process shot of mexican pizza.

How to Make Copycat Mexican Pizza Tips

  1. I bake the tortillas to make them crunchy, since it’s easier than frying. Just be sure to spray them with nonstick cooking spray to make sure they crisp up.
  2. Once the tortillas are crunchy, you’ll layer them with beans and taco meat, then another tortilla and the sauce and cheese, just like the original.
  3. Bake again until the cheese is melted – everything is already cooked, you just need to heat them up.
sliced mexican pizza on a white plate.

Storing Leftovers

  • If you have leftover Mexican pizza, just store in an airtight container in the fridge. I don’t recommend freezing these.
  • To reheat them, you can microwave or to make them crunchy, air fry or reheat in oven.
sliced mexican pizza on a white plate.
Print

Copycat Mexican Pizza Recipe

Mexican Pizza recipe is a copycat of my favorite Taco Bell recipe. It contains refried beans, taco meat, cheese, and many other yummy toppings!
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 509kcal
Author Dorothy Kern
Cost $7

Ingredients

  • 8 Fajita Sized Flour Tortillas
  • 1 cup refried beans
  • 1 pound taco meat see note
  • ¼ cup red enchilada sauce
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 small Roma tomato diced

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400°F. Spray a cookie sheet with nonstick cooking spray.
  • Place tortillas on prepared cookie sheet(s). Spray each tortilla evenly with nonstick cooking spray. Bake 3-5 minutes, then flip and bake another 3-5 minutes, watching closely, until they’re browned on each side.
  • Remove tortillas from cookie sheet. Place 4 tortillas on the cookie sheet. Spread each with refried beans. Top with taco meat.
  • Place another tortilla on top the meat and spread with enchilada sauce. Sprinkle with cheese and tomatoes.
  • Bake until cheese is melted and meat is heated through, about 5-8 minutes. Serve hot.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Bake to reheat or use the air fryer!

Notes

  • Taco meat: you can make your favorite taco meat using ground beef or ground turkey. We love using a packet of reduced sodium taco seasoning and following the directions on the packet, but use your favorite. This is a great way to use up leftover meat.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servings | Calories: 509kcal | Carbohydrates: 39g | Protein: 40g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 99mg | Sodium: 1166mg | Potassium: 556mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 689IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 332mg | Iron: 5mg

Other Pizza Recipes

]]> https://www.crazyforcrust.com/mexican-pizza/feed/ 5 No Yeast Pizza Dough Recipe https://www.crazyforcrust.com/no-yeast-pizza-dough-recipe/ https://www.crazyforcrust.com/no-yeast-pizza-dough-recipe/#comments Mon, 03 Feb 2025 13:57:00 +0000 https://www.crazyforcrust.com/?p=52120 You can make pizza dough without yeast and you only need 5 ingredients! Make this No Yeast Pizza Dough Recipe in under 30 minutes you have a delicious dinner on your table fast and you won’t even miss the yeast. So many people have been making my ultimate pizza dough recipe lately but, like with…]]>

You can make pizza dough without yeast and you only need 5 ingredients! Make this No Yeast Pizza Dough Recipe in under 30 minutes you have a delicious dinner on your table fast and you won’t even miss the yeast.

Close-up of a pepperoni pizza with three slices arranged on parchment paper. Melted cheese covers the slices, each topped with several pepperoni slices. A small bowl with extra pepperoni is visible in the background.

So many people have been making my ultimate pizza dough recipe lately but, like with my white bread, I get tons of questions about how to make it without yeast.

A no yeast pizza crust saves time because you don’t have to knead it or wait for rising. Dough won’t rise without yeast, so as soon as it comes together it’s ready to roll out to make your pizza. You can use this dough for or breadsticks, garlic bread, or no yeast bread too! Pizza in under 30 minutes with homemade crust that only has 5 ingredients – this is my go to recipe from now on.

Top-down view of baking ingredients on a white surface, including a glass bowl of flour, small dishes of baking powder and salt, a measuring cup of water, and a small container of oil. Each item is labeled with its name.

Just 5 ingredients:

  • Instead of using yeast you can use baking powder. The correct combination of baking powder to flour and salt will cause the dough to rise in the oven and have a similar texture to a crust with yeast.
  • Besides that you need all the normal homemade pizza ingredients: All-purpose flour, salt, olive oil, and water. And your favorite pizza toppings, of course!
  • If you happen to have self-rising flour, you can easily substitute in this recipe. Instead of the dry ingredients below, just use 2 1/2 cups of self-rising flour.

Click to see the recipe card below for full ingredients & instructions and below the recipe card for process shots.

process shot in no yeast pizza dough
process shot in no yeast pizza dough
A round pizza dough neatly spread on a black baking tray, placed on a light gray countertop. A white kitchen towel with black stripes is partially visible in the top left corner of the image.

How to make Pizza Dough without Yeast

  1. Whisk together the dry ingredients in a large bowl and add the liquid.
  2. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula as much as you can. At some point it will be come impossible for it to come together with just a spoon (this is called a “shaggy dough”), so you’ll need to get your hands in there to “knead” it together in to a ball.
  3. Roll pizza crust out on parchment paper, otherwise it will stick to your surface. It’s also easier to transfer to your pan when it’s on parchment paper. Simply roll out your dough to your desired thickness. You can make a thick crust pizza or a thin crust, by just rolling it more or less.
  4. Once you have your pizza dough it’s time to top it with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and your favorite toppings.

How to get a crispy bottom

No matter what your pizza crust recipe, the best way to cook your pizza dough is to start with a hot pan.

Preheat your oven to 450°F before making the dough, and then let the pan preheat in the oven while you’re preparing the crust. Transfer the crust to the hot pan – carefully – either before or after topping with toppings.

The hot pan will cook the crust before the dough itself cooks in the oven, making it crunchier.

A ball of raw dough sits on a wooden cutting board. The dough appears freshly kneaded, with a smooth texture. In the background, a striped kitchen towel is partially visible on a gray surface.

How to use Alternate Flours

Yeast-free pizza dough is much easier to change up for different dietary concerns:

Gluten Free Pizza Dough: use a Gluten Free 1:1 All Purpose Flour (i.e. Bob’s Red Mill light blue bag). Use the same amount as called for in the recipe.

Whole Wheat Pizza Dough: Substitute 1 cup whole wheat flour and use the rest all-purpose.

Bread Flour and White Whole Wheat Flour can be used one-to-one, as can self-rising flour.

And if you’re looking to make a healthier pizza crust, check out my Weight Watchers Pizza Dough Recipe which is very similar to this one, but it uses Greek Yogurt instead of water and oil.

A freshly baked pepperoni pizza on a round black tray, topped with melted cheese and pepperoni slices. A small clear bowl with extra pepperoni is beside the pizza. A striped cloth is partially visible in the top left corner.

Storing No Yeast Pizza Dough

I made an extra batch of dough and put it in the fridge to test how long it lasted, and it was only good overnight. Therefore, I’m advising you to make the crust right before making your pizza, and don’t try to make it ahead of time, unless you’re using it within a few hours. I don’t recommend freezing it unbaked. Once the pizza is baked and cooled you can freeze slices, then reheat in the air fryer to crisp it up.

Expert Tips

Because it won’t have the rising process of yeast, this dough won’t be as chewy and it won’t have that “yeasty” flavor, but it is the perfect way to make pizza crust when you don’t have yeast.

Best Pizza Pans

  • Use a round pizza pan, like I did. Mine is a 10″ round, but you can use any size. If you have a smaller pan but want a thinner pizza, just divide the dough in two to make two pizzas.
  • Use a cookie sheet or jelly roll pan
  • Bake this in a cast iron skillet
  • Divide the dough in quarters to make four personal pizzas.
A freshly baked pepperoni pizza on a round black tray, topped with melted cheese and pepperoni slices. A small clear bowl with extra pepperoni is beside the pizza. A striped cloth is partially visible in the top left corner.
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No Yeast Pizza Dough Recipe

Make my no yeast pizza dough recipe and have pizza in under 30 minutes! This pizza dough is made without yeast and can be made gluten-free, whole wheat or with most different kinds of flour and any toppings.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 349kcal
Author Dorothy Kern
Cost $5

Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups (310g) all purpose flour
  • 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
  • ¾ cup (177ml) water

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 450°F. Spray your pizza or sheet pan with nonstick cooking spray.
  • Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add oil and water and stir until you can’t anymore, then work the dough with your hands until it’s smooth and forms a ball.
  • Place the ball of dough on a floured surface (or on parchment paper) and roll it into desired size (about 9-11-inch circle).
  • Place dough on prepared pan. Top as desired with sauce, cheese and toppings.
  • Bake for about 10-12 minutes, rotating the pan as needed so it cooks evenly.
  • The crust won’t get dark golden, but will look slightly golden and no longer doughy, and the cheese will be melted once it’s done.
  • Serve hot. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Notes

  • Whole Wheat Dough: substitute half whole wheat flour and half all-purpose (1 1/4 cups of each).
    Gluten Free Dough: substitute GF AP 1:1 flour for the all purpose.
  • Substitute the equal amounts of Bread Flour or White Whole Wheat Flour for the All Purpose called for.
  • To substitute Self-Rising Flour use 2 1/2 cups self-rising flour and omit the dry ingredients.
  • You can also divide the dough into 4 pieces to make 4 mini pizzas, or turn your dough into breadsticks.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 349kcal | Carbohydrates: 61g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 297mg | Potassium: 336mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Calcium: 120mg | Iron: 4mg

Pizza Toppings

With this pizza dough without yeast you can make so many different kinds of pizza!

]]> https://www.crazyforcrust.com/no-yeast-pizza-dough-recipe/feed/ 20 French Bread Pizza https://www.crazyforcrust.com/easiest-french-bread-pizza-recipe/ https://www.crazyforcrust.com/easiest-french-bread-pizza-recipe/#respond Tue, 28 Jan 2025 16:27:56 +0000 https://www.crazyforcrust.com/?p=58641 French Bread Pizza combines my two loves: French Bread and Pizza all in one easy dinner! Crunchy, garlicky, and delicious, this easy pizza recipe has your favorite toppings and is the easiest way to make pizza at home in no time at all! We love that making French Bread Pizza easy and fast – no…]]>

French Bread Pizza combines my two loves: French Bread and Pizza all in one easy dinner! Crunchy, garlicky, and delicious, this easy pizza recipe has your favorite toppings and is the easiest way to make pizza at home in no time at all!

Slices of bread topped with melted cheese and pepperoni are arranged on a wooden surface. A striped cloth is partially visible in the background.

We love that making French Bread Pizza easy and fast – no yeast required. It’s the perfect last minute easy dinner recipe, especially if you have leftover bread or if you want to use the second loaf in my two loaf homemade French Bread Recipe! It’s also a great appetizer for a party…or just because you love pizza.

While I’m preferential to a soft French bread pizza, most people like it crunchy and not soggy – so this recipe is geared towards that, although there are notes in the recipe for how to make it soft like I like it!

A loaf of French bread rests on a marble surface, surrounded by small bowls of sliced pepperoni, marinara sauce, shredded cheese, a clove of garlic, and olive oil—perfect components for creating a delicious French bread pizza.

Ingredient Notes

  • French Bread: use any kind you like, but it’s best to get a long loaf of french bread, not a round one.
  • Oil and Garlic: To make the bread crunchy so the pizza sauce doesn’t soak in you’ll need to toast it first, so I give it a slathering of garlic and oil to add tons of flavor.
  • Sauce: I’ll talk about this in variations, but you need some sort of pizza sauce. I love my homemade no-cook pizza sauce but you can also use marinara sauce.
  • Cheese: Mozzarella, of course! I recommend shredding your own cheese for optimal melting. (Packaged shredded cheese is coated to keep it fresh, and sometimes it doesn’t melt as well because of that.) 

Click to see the recipe card below for full ingredients & instructions and below the recipe card for process shots.

Variations

Making pizza is so easy and fun to try different variations for ANY time of day. I’m sharing delicious variations on how to easily switch up this one homemade pizza recipe. Use your favorite pizza toppings!

  • Hawaiian Pizza: use pizza sauce and mozzarella cheese, top with ham and pineapple and bacon.
  • Pesto: use pesto instead of sauce, top with mozzarella and your favorite toppings.
  • BBQ Chicken: use BBQ sauce and mozzarella, then top with sliced red onions and leftover chicken.
  • Breakfast French Bread Pizza: skip the sauce and top with scrambled eggs, sausage or bacon and cheddar cheese.
  • Top your pizza with any veggies you like, bell peppers, tomatoes, olives, etc. Or even fresh basil, oregano, or parsley.
Two sliced baguettes with butter spread on each half are placed on a dark baking tray. The tray is on a white surface.
Four slices of French bread on a baking sheet, topped with tomato sauce, shredded cheese, and pepperoni slices, ready to be baked.

How to make French Bread Pizza

  1. Slice French bread loaf in half horizontally. Just cut carefully so you don’t end up with it thick at one end and skinny at the other.
  2. I like to mix minced garlic with oil and brush it all over the top of the pizza then toast it for a few minutes, just until that “crust” forms on the top so the sauce doesn’t soak in.
  3. Add pizza sauce and desired toppings.
  4. Bake again until cheese is melted.

How to make French Bread Pizza Not Soggy

If putting the sauce on the pizza and baking it seems soggy to you, the best way to avoid a soggy filling is to bake the French bread for 3-5 minutes BEFORE adding the sauce. Brush the bread with olive oil first; this toasts it a bit so the sauce doesn’t soak into the bread. For even more flavor, sprinkle it with garlic powder and/or parmesan cheese.

sliced pizza with pepperoni and olives on top

Storing and Reheating Pizza

  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
  • If you want to keep it crunchy, you should reheat leftovers in the oven at 400°F. Or you can use a toaster oven or air fryer. You can also reheat in the microwave, but it will be soft, not crunchy.

Expert Tips

  • If you prefer a softer pizza (soggy, as some would call it), skip the first bake.
  • You do not have to add the garlic to the oil.
  • You can make French bread pizza in an air fryer! Do the pre-cook at 400°F for a few minutes then the same once the toppings are added. This is my favorite air fryer.
A close-up of French bread pizza topped with melted cheese and pepperoni slices. The bread is toasted, and the pizza is sprinkled with herbs. It rests on a wooden surface.
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French Bread Pizza Recipe

Learn how to make one of our favorites – French Bread Pizza! This easy recipe is the perfect method for making your favorite pizza with your favorite sauce and toppings on french bread instead of pizza dough.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 310kcal
Author Dorothy Kern
Cost $8

Ingredients

  • 1 loaf French Bread
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic
  • ½-1 cup pizza sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Assorted Toppings

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 450°F. Line a cookie sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
  • Slice the french bread in half horizontally. Place both halves face up on prepared cookie sheet. I sometimes cut it in half first to make cutting easier (making 4 halves).
  • Crush garlic in a garlic press and stir into olive oil in a small bowl. Use a pastry brush to rub the oil over the top of the bread.
  • Bake the bread for about 4-5 minutes, or until the edges just get lightly brown and the top has formed a "crust" (don't let the top get too golden).
  • Spread sauce evenly over bread. Top with cheese and toppings.
  • Bake again for 5-12 minutes, or until cheese is melted.
  • Slice and serve hot. Store leftovers in refrigerator.

Video

Notes

  • Don’t like garlic? Skip adding it to the oil.
  • Want it softer? Skip the first bake.

Topping Ideas:

  • Pepperoni, salami, sausage
  • Olives, mushrooms, peppers, onions
  • Ham, pineapple
  • Reheat pizza in the oven or using a toaster oven or air fryer to keep leftovers crunchy.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 310kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 29mg | Sodium: 683mg | Potassium: 181mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 341IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 221mg | Iron: 3mg

Other favorite pizza recipes:

This is the perfect easy 30 minute meal or Friday night dinner – use your favorite toppings. My kids love this!

]]> https://www.crazyforcrust.com/easiest-french-bread-pizza-recipe/feed/ 0 7 Layer Pizza Dip https://www.crazyforcrust.com/7-layer-pizza-dip/ https://www.crazyforcrust.com/7-layer-pizza-dip/#comments Sun, 01 Dec 2024 15:50:31 +0000 https://crazyforcrustcom.bigscoots-staging.com/?p=38940 7 Layer Pizza Dip is an easy hot cheesy dip recipe that is even better than pizza!! The layers of cheese, sauce, and toppings that will be the hit of your party. What will you top it with? Pizza is a huge weakness for me. I could eat it every day and never get tired…]]>

7 Layer Pizza Dip is an easy hot cheesy dip recipe that is even better than pizza!! The layers of cheese, sauce, and toppings that will be the hit of your party. What will you top it with?

over head shot of 7 Layer Pizza Dip Recipe

Pizza is a huge weakness for me. I could eat it every day and never get tired of it. Now I can add Pizza DIP to my love language: This is almost better than the real thing, and it’s definitely easier than making homemade pizza.

  • It’s an gooey easy cheesy dip: a hot appetizer that tastes like pizza without the crust.
  • The crust comes in the form of the dippers, like pretzels or crackers, or Fritos.
  • And this isn’t just your average baked dip – it’s a 7 Layer pepperoni pizza dip with your favorite pizza toppings! All the pizza flavors and lots of cheese without all the hassle.
overhead view of pizza dip recipe

Ingredients Needed

  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese: Be sure to use softened cream cheese to avoid lumps!
  • Spices: Dried basil and oregano, onion powder, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes all add tons of pizza flavor.
  • Cheeses: You’ll need grated Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese and cheddar cheese. I just love adding some cheddar to pizza – reminds me of my favorite childhood restaurant.
  • Pizza sauce: My favorite one is homemade but you can use any from the store too.
  • Toppings: Pick your favorites! Sliced pepperoni, olives, bell peppers – anything!
collage of 6 photos showing How to make pizza dip

How to Make Pizza Dip

  1. Combine the cream cheese, herbs, spices, and Parmesan cheese using a hand mixer in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Spread the cream cheese mixture in a 9” pie pan
  3. Spread the pizza sauce over the top.
  4. Sprinkle both kinds of cheese over the top of the sauce, followed by pepperoni, olives, and bell peppers.
  5. Bake until it’s hot and the cheese is melted. Serve the dip hot.
cheese pull of pizza dip

What to serve with pizza dip?

You can serve all kinds of dippers with this hot pizza dip recipe. Here are a few we like:

Chips: Try some tortilla chips, pita chips, or Fritos.

Crackers: Ritz, Wheat Thins, or water crackers are all great, too.

Bread: Spread the dip on baguette slices or use breadsticks as a dipper

Veggies: Celery sticks, carrot sticks, and sliced bell peppers would be a healthy dipper!

BEST Pizza Dip Variations

Just like regular pizza, you can customize this hot pizza dip recipe with your favorite toppings. Here are some options:

Meat: Swap the pepperoni for salami slices, Canadian bacon, cooked and crumbled bacon, or cooked sausage crumbles.

Sauce: Try pesto instead of pizza sauce, or use your favorite jarred marinara sauce.

Cheese: Try using shredded provolone instead of mozzarella or mix in some shredded Parmesan for a different flavor.

Veggies: Cooked mushrooms, canned green chiles, onions, chopped banana peppers… whatever veggie you like on pizza will probably work in this dip!

over head shot of 7 Layer Pizza Dip Recipe

Expert Tip

I like using a 9-inch pie plate but you could also use a similar size baking dish or even a skillet. Just make sure whatever you use is a heat safe dish.

FAQ

Can I make this dip in a crockpot?

Yes, you can! Layer the ingredients in your crockpot and cook the dip on low for four hours or until it’s hot and melty.

How to store leftovers?

Store leftover pizza dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator. I don’t recommend freezing it.

Can you make this ahead?

It’s a great make-ahead dip! Assemble the dip in the pie plate nad chill it until you’re ready to bake it. You can do this up to a day in advance. It may need a little longer baking time.

pizza dip with 7 layers of olives pepperoni cheese and sauce
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7 Layer Pizza Dip Recipe

7 Layer Pizza Dip is an easy hot cheesy dip recipe that is even better than pizza!! There are 7 layers of cheese, sauce, and toppings that will be the HIT of your party.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 12 servings
Calories 205kcal
Author Dorothy Kern
Cost $8

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces (226g) cream cheese room temperature
  • ¼ teaspoon dried basil
  • ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup pizza sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup pepperoni
  • 6 ounces sliced olives
  • ¼ cup green pepper diced

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F.
  • Mix together cream cheese, herbs and spices, and parmesan cheese using a hand mixer in a large bowl. Spread cream cheese mixture in the bottom of a 9” pie plate.
  • Top with pizza sauce, both cheeses, pepperoni, olives, and green peppers.
  • Bake until hot and the cheese is melted, about 15 minutes. Serve hot with chips or crackers.

Video

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 205kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 42mg | Sodium: 488mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g

More Homemade Dips You’ll Love

7 Layer Pizza Dip is an easy hot cheesy dip recipe that is even better than pizza!! There are 7 layers of cheese, sauce, and toppings that will be the hit of your party. Enjoy!

]]> https://www.crazyforcrust.com/7-layer-pizza-dip/feed/ 10 Vegetarian Mexican Pizza https://www.crazyforcrust.com/copycat-mexican-pizza-vegetarian/ https://www.crazyforcrust.com/copycat-mexican-pizza-vegetarian/#comments Thu, 24 Aug 2023 08:17:00 +0000 https://crazyforcrustcom.bigscoots-staging.com/?p=24313 Vegetarian Mexican Pizza is the best taco pizza because it combines some amazing flavors that work so well together. On top of that it’s a copycat, just like the ones from the fast food places.  Copycat Mexican Pizza – Vegetarian! Mexican Pizza is always a good answer, but this one is even better because even…]]>

Vegetarian Mexican Pizza is the best taco pizza because it combines some amazing flavors that work so well together. On top of that it’s a copycat, just like the ones from the fast food places. 

Vegetarian Mexican pizza

Copycat Mexican Pizza – Vegetarian!

Mexican Pizza is always a good answer, but this one is even better because even if you’re vegetarian, you can enjoy this recipe just as much as everyone else. The biggest swap made in this recipe is instead of meat, I used lentils. 

Lentils are great when swapping out meat products. Although the two are quite different, they give similar benefits and they go so well with this pizza. They taste identical to mashed beans! This Taco Bell Copycat is delicious, simple, and even better because it’s homemade!

Ingredients Needed

  • Lentils: The main ingredient in this pizza – you can use any kind of lentil you want. You need them already cooked so it’s a great way to use leftovers.
  • Enchilada sauce: This is what we’re using in place of pizza sauce.
  • Tortillas: You’ll want small fajita tortillas (around 6-inches)
  • Cheddar Cheese: You can use Monterey Jack instead if you would like. Or a combination of both! 

How to make vegetarian mexican pizza

  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a cookie sheet with foil and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
  • Place lentils and 2 tablespoons enchilada sauce in a food processor or blender and blend until thick, like refried beans.
  • Place 4 tortillas on prepared cookie sheet and bake until the bottoms are crispy, just a few minutes. Turn and cook a few minutes on the opposite side. (Watch them carefully, they burn easily and fast.)
  • Spread half the mashed lentils on one tortilla and sandwich it with another. Repeat with remaining lentils and tortillas. Spread an additional tablespoon of enchilada sauce on each pizza and top with cheese. Bake until cheese is melted, just a few minutes.
  • Top with shredded lettuce and tomato for serving.
  • It is easy to double this recipe to make a larger serving!
Vegetarian Mexican pizza

Expert Tips

  • It’s easy to make a single serving or multiple servings of this recipe. I make a big batch of lentils at once and use them up over the week by throwing a handful in salads or soup. It’s easy to make these as a last minute leftover dinner or quick lunch.
  • I prefer baking the tortillas, but you can fry them if you want, or use crunchy tostada shells. I also love flour tortillas best but corn work just as good.
  • I personally think traditional red enchilada sauce to season the mashed lentils is the best, but use what you love.

FAQs

Does it matter what kind of lentils I use?

You can use whatever lentils you like!

How do you store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container. 

Vegetarian Mexican pizza
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Vegetarian Mexican Pizza

Copycat Mexican Pizza – just like from the fast food place but it’s healthier and vegetarian and you can make it at home!
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 2 pizzas
Calories 400kcal
Author Dorothy Kern
Cost 6

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cooked lentils
  • 4 tablespoons enchilada sauce divided
  • 4 6” tortillas
  • ½ cup shredded lettuce
  • ½ roma tomato diced
  • ½ cup shredded cheese cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a combination

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a cookie sheet with foil and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
  • Place lentils and 2 tablespoons enchilada sauce in a food processor or blender and blend until thick, like refried beans.
  • Place 4 tortillas on prepared cookie sheet and bake until the bottoms are crispy, just a few minutes. Turn and cook a few minutes on the opposite side. (Watch them carefully, they burn easily and fast.)
  • Spread half the mashed lentils on one tortilla and sandwich it with another. Repeat with remaining lentils and tortillas. Spread an additional tablespoon of enchilada sauce on each pizza and top with cheese. Bake until cheese is melted, just a few minutes.
  • Top with shredded lettuce and tomato for serving.
  • It is easy to double this recipe to make a larger serving!

Notes

  • Use any kind of lentils you like, as long as you start with them already cooked.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 400kcal | Carbohydrates: 54g | Protein: 21g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 22mg | Sodium: 878mg | Potassium: 524mg | Fiber: 11g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 614IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 253mg | Iron: 6mg

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]]> https://www.crazyforcrust.com/copycat-mexican-pizza-vegetarian/feed/ 5 Zucchini Pizza https://www.crazyforcrust.com/roasted-zucchini-pizza-with-homemade/ https://www.crazyforcrust.com/roasted-zucchini-pizza-with-homemade/#comments Wed, 19 Jul 2023 09:04:00 +0000 http://66.147.244.75/~crazyfp4/2011/08/roasted-zucchini-pizza-with-homemade-sauce/ Stop what you’re doing and try this Zucchini Pizza with an incredible homemade pizza sauce and from scratch dough! We love this when we’re craving vegetarian pizza or when zucchini is in season! Whether you know me or not, I’m sure you can guess what my favorite part of the pizza is. Here’s a hint:…]]>

Stop what you’re doing and try this Zucchini Pizza with an incredible homemade pizza sauce and from scratch dough! We love this when we’re craving vegetarian pizza or when zucchini is in season!

pizza with sliced zucchinis on top.

Whether you know me or not, I’m sure you can guess what my favorite part of the pizza is. Here’s a hint: I’M CRAZY FOR CRUST!  Before you say, “Ewww!!! Zucchini doesn’t belong on pizza!!!” just stick with me for a moment because this may be the weird pizza recipe you’ll end up falling in love with. 

Once I learned how easy it was to make my own pizza sauce, I vowed to never buy store-bought sauce again. This pizza is one of my go-to Friday night dinners!

ingredients in zucchini pizza.

Ingredients Notes

  • Pizza Crust: you can start with homemade pizza dough or store-bought pizza dough. Either way is fine. I’ve even done this with my 2 ingredient dough!
  • Zucchini: I had 2 medium zucchini so I used one for each pizza. 

Click to see the recipe card below for full ingredients & instructions and below the recipe card for process shots.

process shot of zucchini pizza.
process shot of zucchini pizza.
process shot of zucchini pizza.

How to make zucchini pizza

  1. Spread out your pizza dough on a piece of parchment paper. You can also use store bought dough, the kind from a can, or even Boboli or similar.
  2. Make thin slices of zucchini so they cook all the way and aren’t too thick.
  3. My homemade pizza sauce is amazing if you want to use it!
  4. I don’t pre-cook my zucchini but if you want it more roasted and done, then I recommend roasting slices for about 5 minutes before topping the pizza.
  5. Always cook homemade pizza at a high temperature (400-450°F). It’s even good if you preheat the pan so the crust starts to cook as soon as the pizza hits it.
pizza with sliced zucchinis on top.

Expert Tips

  • Choose a pizza dough that’s gluten-free if you prefer
  • Make your own homemade sauce – you won’t be sorry.
  • Don’t like the crunch of al dente zucchini? Cook it first for a few minutes while the oven preheats.

FAQs

Can I use a store-bought crust?

Yes! Use any kind of pizza crust you like.

How do you reheat pizza?

You can microwave your pizza but I find the best results in the oven. I usually toast mine for about 2-5 minutes. 

Can you put raw zucchini on pizza?

Yes. Zucchini doesn’t need to be cooked beforehand but I love the added flavor it gives when roasted ahead. 

pizza with sliced zucchinis on top.
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Zucchini Pizza Recipe

Zucchini Pizza is an easy dinner recipe – use store bought or homemade pizza dough to make a pizza with raw zucchini on top.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Rest Time 10 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 8 slices
Calories 88kcal
Author Dorothy Kern
Cost $8

Ingredients

  • 1 recipe pizza crust or store bought
  • ½ to 1 cup pizza sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 thinly sliced zucchini (small)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 450°F.
  • Stretch and pat pizza dough with floured hands to fill greased 12-inch pizza pan or baking sheet.
  • Spread with pizza sauce. Top with cheese. Top with zucchini.
  • Bake on lowest oven rack for 12 to 15 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and crust is browned.
  • Cool just a minute or so before slicing and serving.

Notes

It’s important that your zucchini is very thinly sliced so that it starts to cook while the pizza is in the oven.

Nutrition

Serving: 1slice | Calories: 88kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 22mg | Sodium: 249mg | Potassium: 67mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 256IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 144mg | Iron: 0.3mg

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]]> https://www.crazyforcrust.com/roasted-zucchini-pizza-with-homemade/feed/ 7 Turkey Cheese Stromboli https://www.crazyforcrust.com/turkey-cheese-stromboli/ https://www.crazyforcrust.com/turkey-cheese-stromboli/#respond Sun, 12 Feb 2023 10:44:00 +0000 https://www.crazyforcrust.com/?p=61609 Turkey Cheese Stromboli is going to be a quick and easy recipe you’ll want to make all the time! This is the perfect dinner or appetizer, filled with deli turkey and cheese and it starts with a refrigerated pizza dough. What is a Stromboli? Stromboli is a turnover type recipe, rolled pizza dough with sauce…]]>

Turkey Cheese Stromboli is going to be a quick and easy recipe you’ll want to make all the time! This is the perfect dinner or appetizer, filled with deli turkey and cheese and it starts with a refrigerated pizza dough.

close up of sliced Stromboli

Table of Contents

What is a Stromboli?

Stromboli is a turnover type recipe, rolled pizza dough with sauce and cheese and Italian meats. A classic Stromboli has pepperoni and sometimes ham, but this version uses turkey, making it the perfect alternative to those traditional pizza flavors. We all love pizza, but sometimes you want a little something different.

You will love this recipe because it’s:

  • SO easy: starts with refrigerated pizza dough
  • Something different: uses turkey instead of ham and pepperoni
  • Is super melty from all the cheese!
ingredients in Stromboli

6 Ingredients Needed

  • Pizza Dough: I used a can from the refrigerated section. You can use regular or thin crust. If you want to make the dough from scratch you can use my Ultimate Pizza Crust (cut the dough in half to make two).
  • Pizza Sauce: Unlike calzones, Stromboli always has pizza sauce. I used my favorite pizza sauce recipe but you can use your favorite store brand.
  • Turkey: Just regular deli turkey works best. You can buy the packaged kind or ask the deli to slice some fresh.
  • Cheese: I used Cooper® Sharp cheese in this recipe because I like the pairing with the deli turkey. Plus it melts amazing!

Click to see the recipe card below for full ingredients & instructions and below the recipe card for process shots.

What’s the best cheese for Stromboli?

While a classic Stromboli recipe uses mozzarella, I used Cooper® Sharp cheese instead. I love the way it melts in this recipe, plus the flavor goes better with turkey than any other kind of cheese. Last year I made Fudge with Cooper® Cheese and so I knew how good it melted, making it perfect for inside the Stromboli!

how to make turkey cheese Stromboli process shot photo

How to make this Easy Stromboli Recipe

  • Dough: Unroll pizza dough onto parchment paper and stretch to a 10×15-inch rectangle. Spread sauce over crust, leaving a 2-inch border around the edges.
  • Fill: Add the turkey in a single layer, then sprinkle with cheese.
  • Roll: Roll the Stromboli into a tight spiral, using the parchment to help you roll. Get it as tight as you can.
  • Brush and Bake: Center the Stromboli, seam side down, on the parchment paper. Place on a large rimmed baking sheet. Cut dashes diagonally across the top of the crust. Brush the crust with melted butter and sprinkle with Italian seasoning. Bake for about 28-33 minutes or until the top is golden brown and dough is cooked through.
hand brushing butter over Stromboli

Expert Tips

  • Be sure your oven is preheated before baking. You want the high heat to help brown the outside and cook it through.
  • You’ll want to let it cool slightly before slicing so the cheese can set a bit and doesn’t run out of the cut dough.
  • Variations: you can also make Stromboli with beef using deli roast beef or ham.
  • Serve a Stromboli as a simple dinner or use it as an appetizer for a party.
  • You can serve it with a side of pizza sauce or ranch for dipping.
  • If you want to make the dough from scratch use my Ultimate Pizza Dough recipe but cut it in half to make two (or freeze half for later).
  • Store leftover Stromboli in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave or air fryer.
close up of sliced Stromboli

FAQs

Do stromboli have sauce in them?

I use pizza sauce in my stromboli recipe, but you can use pesto or barbecue sauce or even ranch. Or omit the sauce!

Is stromboli fried or baked?

While you could make this in the air fryer, this is baked in the oven.

close up of sliced Stromboli
Print

Turkey Cheese Stromboli Recipe

An easy stromboli recipe filled with turkey and cheese – this is the perfect dinner or appetizer.
Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 10 servings
Calories 132kcal
Author Dorothy Kern
Cost $8

Ingredients

  • 1 13.8 ounce can pizza dough (or ½ of my ultimate crust recipe)
  • ½ cup (130g) pizza sauce
  • 6 ounces (171g) deli turkey
  • 2 cups (175g) shredded Cooper® Sharp cheese
  • 1 tablespoon butter melted
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400°F. Lay out a large sheet of parchment paper or a silicone baking mat on your work surface.
  • Unroll pizza dough onto parchment paper and stretch to a 10×15-inch rectangle .
  • Spread sauce over crust, leaving a 2-inch border around the edges.
  • Add the turkey in a single layer, then sprinkle with cheese.
  • Roll the Stromboli into a tight spiral, using the parchment to help you roll. Get it as tight as you can.
  • Center the Stromboli, seam side down, on the parchment paper. Place on a large rimmed baking sheet. Cut dashes diagonally across the top of the crust.
  • Brush the crust with melted butter and sprinkle with Italian seasoning. Bake for about 28-33 minutes or until the top is golden brown and dough is cooked through.
  • Cool at least 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with additional pizza sauce for dipping.

Notes

  • You can use store bought pizza sauce or use my homemade recipe.
  • Want to make the dough from scratch? Make my ultimate pizza crust and cut the dough in half.
  • Use any meat you want to switch up the flavor – roast beef or ham would also be delicious.
  • Be sure your oven is preheated before baking. You want the high heat to help brown the outside and cook it through.
  • You’ll want to let it cool slightly before slicing so the cheese can set a bit and doesn’t run out of the cut dough.
  • Serve a Stromboli as a simple dinner or use it as an appetizer for a party.
  • You can serve it with a side of pizza sauce or ranch for dipping.
  • Store leftover Stromboli in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave or air fryer.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 132kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 36mg | Sodium: 746mg | Potassium: 114mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 354IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 298mg | Iron: 1mg

Melty Cheese Recipes

This post has been sponsored by Cooper® cheese and includes tracking links. For more information about tracking links and how to opt out, please visit All About Do Not Track (https://allaboutdnt.com/) prior to clicking any links found in this post. Cooper® is a regional household favorite cheese, and it’s a family tradition across the Northeast. Cooper® Sharp is a top-tier cheese so you know you’re getting quality. It’s made with milk and hand-selected aged cheese without any unpronounceable ingredients! It’s creamy and flavorful and can be sliced, shredded, cubed and it melts like a dream.

Turkey Cheese Stromboli is an Easy Stromboli recipe made with turkey and cheese! This twist on a classic recipe is an easy dinner for any day of the week.

]]> https://www.crazyforcrust.com/turkey-cheese-stromboli/feed/ 0 Sausage Pesto Pizza Recipe https://www.crazyforcrust.com/mushroom-sausage-pesto-pizza/ https://www.crazyforcrust.com/mushroom-sausage-pesto-pizza/#comments Fri, 03 Feb 2023 12:00:00 +0000 https://crazyforcrustcom.bigscoots-staging.com/?p=24025 Homemade Pesto Pizza with sausage and mushrooms – this is an easy pizza recipe method. It’s cheesy and SO delicious – if you love pesto you’re going to love it on pizza. BEST Pesto Pizza Recipe with Sausage Don’t you just love pesto pizza? How the juicy Italian sausage sits over the melted mozzarella cheese…]]>

Homemade Pesto Pizza with sausage and mushrooms – this is an easy pizza recipe method. It’s cheesy and SO delicious – if you love pesto you’re going to love it on pizza.

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round pizza with sausage and white cheese on top

BEST Pesto Pizza Recipe with Sausage

Don’t you just love pesto pizza? How the juicy Italian sausage sits over the melted mozzarella cheese and the kitchen is filled with the aroma of basil. Best part? This pesto sausage pizza recipe has delicious variations and can easily be customized to your liking.

Enjoy homemade pizza week after week by switching up from the traditional tomato sauce to pesto. This simple recipe is one of my many favorite pizza recipes and will surely be yours too! 

Ingredients Needed

Feel free to customize the pizza toppings, you can use more or less of what I used depending on your taste.

  • Italian sausage: You can use links and remove the casing, or buy bulk sausage.
  • Mushrooms: stems removed, diced
  • Recipe pizza dough: or store bought pizza dough
  • Pesto: my homemade pesto recipe or buy from the store
  • Mozzarella cheese: freshly shredded. You can also use a mix of both mozzarella and gorgonzola cheese for extra flavor. 

Pesto Pizza Toppings

What makes mushrooms and sausage perfect for this pesto pizza recipe? The nutty, garlic, basil, salty flavor of the pesto pairs so well with the spicy Italian sausage. Mushrooms just add body and flavor; the earthy mushroom flavor pairs nicely with anything herbs and garlic. I also love this pesto pizza with caramelized onions! 

Although I prefer the sausage and mushrooms on this pesto pizza recipe, anything pairs great with pesto! 

pesto pizza with mushrooms and sausage

How to make this Pesto Pizza Recipe

  1. Prepare: Preheat the oven to 450°F. Place a cookie sheet, pizza pan, or pizza stone in the oven to preheat.
  2. Cook: Remove sausage meat from their casings. Add olive oil to the pan and cook over medium-high heat until brown and cooked through. Drain fat and let cool.
  3. Make: Roll out pizza dough to desired shape on parchment paper. (Dust with flour if needed.) Spread with pesto and sprinkle it with cheese, sausage, and mushrooms.
  4. Bake: Transfer pesto pizza to the oven and bake for 8-12 minutes. Cool slightly before slicing and eating. 
round pizza with sausage and white cheese on top

Expert Tips

  • To fully control your pizza ingredients, try this ultimate pizza dough recipe. It’s easy and  you can make one thicker crust pizza or two thin crust, depending  on what you’re craving! Win-win! 
  • For an alternative and more “foodie” flavor combo try a combination of cheeses (mozzarella and gorgonzola).
  • To make this vegetarian, skip the Italian sausage and add other pizza toppings like red pepper flakes and fresh basil leaves. 

FAQs

What goes with pesto on pizza?

Anything! I love Italian sausage and mushrooms on this recipe. 

Can I use store bought dough for pizza?

You can! It’s a quicker way to make this recipe and equally just as good.

What’s the best way to reheat pizza?

I pop it in the oven for about 5 minutes for ultra freshness but you can heat up your pesto pizza in the microwave! 

Have You Made This Recipe?

Leave a rating by clicking the stars below!

round pizza with sausage and white cheese on top
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Mushroom Sausage Pesto Pizza Recipe

Mushroom Sausage Pesto Pizza – everyone loves pizza night! This easy dinner recipe has pesto for the sauce and it goes so well with the sausage and mushroom topping! Use a store bought dough or make my ultimate pizza dough recipe for the crust!
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 363kcal
Author Dorothy Kern
Cost $10

Ingredients

  • 2-3 Italian Sausage links
  • 4 white or cremini mushrooms stems removed, diced
  • 1 recipe pizza dough or store bought
  • ½ cup pesto or more, to taste
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 450°F. Place a cookie sheet, pizza pan, or pizza stone in the oven to preheat.
  • Remove sausage meat from their casings. Cook over medium-high heat until brown and cooked through. Drain fat and let cool.
  • Roll out pizza dough to desired shape on parchment paper. (Dust with flour if needed.) Spread with pesto (use up to the full jar depending on how much you want; I used about 3/4 of the jar). Sprinkle with cheese, sausage, and mushrooms.
  • Transfer pizza to oven and bake for 8-12 minutes. Cool slightly before slicing and eating.

Video

Notes

You can use more pesto than called for, if you prefer (or less).

Nutrition

Calories: 363kcal | Carbohydrates: 26g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 45mg | Sodium: 879mg | Potassium: 124mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 500IU | Vitamin C: 0.7mg | Calcium: 171mg | Iron: 1.9mg

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We LOVE this recipe – it’s the perfect twist on a regular pizza recipe. Make homemade dough and top it with your favorite toppings!

]]> https://www.crazyforcrust.com/mushroom-sausage-pesto-pizza/feed/ 9 Cheesy Bacon Ranch Pizza Recipe https://www.crazyforcrust.com/cheesy-bacon-ranch-french-bread-pizza/ https://www.crazyforcrust.com/cheesy-bacon-ranch-french-bread-pizza/#comments Mon, 30 Jan 2023 11:00:00 +0000 https://crazyforcrustcom.bigscoots-staging.com/?p=21739 Bacon Ranch French Bread Pizza is an easy dinner recipe with the best sauce! Ranch dressing is mixed with the pizza sauce and topped with extra cheese and bacon. This ranch pizza recipe is the perfect easy weeknight meal!  Bacon Ranch Pizza on French Bread I mean, it’s bacon and ranch on pizza! That’s already…]]>

Bacon Ranch French Bread Pizza is an easy dinner recipe with the best sauce! Ranch dressing is mixed with the pizza sauce and topped with extra cheese and bacon. This ranch pizza recipe is the perfect easy weeknight meal! 

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Slices of cheesy bacon ranch french bread pizza on wooden cutting board

Bacon Ranch Pizza on French Bread

I mean, it’s bacon and ranch on pizza! That’s already a winner, but it’s also so easy to make you don’t have to wait for the weekend to try it. With a few shortcuts, this cheesy ranch pizza is totally doable on a weeknight.

If you’re one of those people who like to dip your pizza crusts in ranch dressing (we are all guilty at our house), you are going to love the flavors of this bacon ranch pizza recipe! The pizza sauce and ranch dressing are mixed together before you bake the pizza. Of course, feel free to add a little more ranch on the side for dipping. – no judgment here!

The French bread pizza with ranch is cheesy, bacon-y, and all about the ranch flavor. If you’re looking for a way to switch up pizza night, this easy Bacon ranch french bread pizza is the recipe to try!

Ingredients you’ll need

  • Crusty French Bread: You can also use sourdough bread or make my homemade french bread recipe.
  • Ranch Dressing: I used Hidden Valley® Simply Ranch Classic Ranch dressing.
  • Pizza Sauce: You mix pizza sauce with the ranch for a yummy sauce. Use my homemade pizza sauce or store bought.
  • Cheese: Shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella or a mix – your choice. TIP: shred it yourself for best melting results.
  • Bacon: Cook it and then crumble it.
  • Sliced green onions: For garnish

How to make Pizza with Ranch

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a cookie sheet with foil and spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. Slice the loaf of french bread lengthwise through the center, so you have two long pieces. Place them cut side up on the cookie sheet.
  3. Combine the ranch dressing and pizza sauce in a small bowl. Top the french bread with the sauce, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top and then add the bacon and onions.
  4. Bake the French bread pizza with ranch for 10 to 12 minutes or until the cheese is melted. Slice the ranch pizza into pieces and serve them hot.
Slices of cheesy bacon ranch french bread pizza on wooden cutting board

Variations 

If bacon and ranch on pizza wasn’t enough for you, then you should try some of these add-ons to it. You’ll love how easy it is to switch up this simple ranch pizza recipe!

Protein: Feel free to add chicken, pepperoni, salami, or even cooked ground sausage if you want to add more flavor.

Cheese: I love cheddar cheese on this pizza, but shredded mozzarella or provolone would work great, too. Or, do a mix of different kinds of cheese.

Garnishes: Serve the hot bacon ranch pizza with more sliced green onions on top or sprinkle some chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese over the top. 

This bacon ranch pizza is a crunchy, gooey cheesy pizza with the tang of ranch in every bite! It’s so easy to make you’ll want it in your dinner rotation – enjoy!

FAQs

How to make french bread pizza not soggy

The best tip for making non-soggy French bread ranch pizza is to take it easy on the sauce. Don’t layer on too much otherwise, it will soak through the bread. My recipe has the perfect amount, so it turns out perfectly!

How to store leftover french bread pizza

French bread pizza is best when it’s made, but leftovers will keep in the refrigerator for up to two days.

What’s the best way to reheat french bread pizza?

I like to toast my french bread pizza in the oven at 400F. You can also microwave your pizza on high for up to one minute. 

Have You Made This Recipe?

Leave a rating by clicking the stars below!

Cheesy Bacon Ranch French Bread Pizza
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Cheesy Bacon Ranch French Bread Pizza Recipe

Cheesy Bacon Ranch French Bread Pizza – this easy dinner recipe combines ranch with PIZZA! Ranch is mixed with pizza sauce and topped with extra cheese and bacon. The perfect weeknight meal!
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings 10 -12 servings
Calories 372kcal
Author Dorothy Kern
Cost $8

Ingredients

  • 1 about 12.5 ounces loaf French Bread or Sourdough Bread
  • ⅔ cup Hidden Valley® Simply Ranch Classic Ranch dressing
  • ½ cup pizza sauce
  • 4 cups shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella or a mix
  • 6 slices cooked bacon crumbled
  • 2 green onions sliced small, optional

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a cookie sheet with foil and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
  • Slice loaf of bread horizontally. Place two halves face up on the cookie sheet.
  • Stir together ranch dressing and pizza sauce in a small bowl. Coat each bread half with sauce.
  • Sprinkle with cheese, then bacon, then onions.
  • Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until cheese is melted.
  • Serve immediately. May be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days, but best the day it’s made.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Slice of pizza | Calories: 372kcal | Carbohydrates: 17g | Protein: 17g | Fat: 27g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Cholesterol: 61mg | Sodium: 748mg | Sugar: 3g

Other Pizza Recipes

]]> https://www.crazyforcrust.com/cheesy-bacon-ranch-french-bread-pizza/feed/ 10 Pizza Sauce from Scratch https://www.crazyforcrust.com/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce/ https://www.crazyforcrust.com/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce/#comments Fri, 27 Jan 2023 11:15:00 +0000 https://crazyforcrustcom.bigscoots-staging.com/?p=38661 5-Minute Homemade NO COOK Pizza Sauce recipe from scratch – this recipe is ready in 5 minutes with pantry ingredients you already have! I promise it’s better than the best jarred pizza sauce – it has the best flavor that’s even better than the pizza parlor. Homemade pizza is one of the best things in…]]>

5-Minute Homemade NO COOK Pizza Sauce recipe from scratch – this recipe is ready in 5 minutes with pantry ingredients you already have! I promise it’s better than the best jarred pizza sauce – it has the best flavor that’s even better than the pizza parlor.

jar of pizza sauce on a cutting board

Homemade pizza is one of the best things in the entire world, isn’t it? I mean, I could eat pizza every single day and be happy with no problems. Plus, it’s so much cheaper and you can make it exactly how you want especially when you make your own homemade pizza sauce recipe.

I used to buy premade sauce, but once I learned how to make homemade pizza dough, I decided I needed to learn how to make easy pizza sauce, too. Store-bought is fine in a pinch, but this is the best pizza sauce you’ll ever eat!

  • It’s no cook making it so easy – no need to simmer or boil or wait for it to cool or worry that it’s overcooked.
  • It’s pizza sauce without tomato paste – just canned tomatoes!
  • You could use marinara sauce, but pizza sauce is actually different and makes your pizza taste way better.
  • This recipe works – I’ve been making it for over 10 years and everyone always loves it! It makes all the difference in your pizza recipes.
close up of jar of pizza sauce

Important Ingredients Needed

  • Tomatoes: Save time by using canned diced tomatoes or canned whole tomatoes. Don’t use plain tomato sauce – you won’t get as rich of a flavor. Use a good quality tomato brand, like San Marzano. In a pinch you can use crushed tomatoes – but you do not need tomato paste.
  • Olive Oil: I use extra-virgin olive oil
  • Red wine vinegar: Adds a bit of acidity and flavor
  • Garlic: A must – only use FRESH garlic!
  • Italian Seasoning: I always have the mix in my pantry!
  • Honey: I think the honey is a little bit of a secret ingredient. Adding it balances out the acidity from the tomatoes and the vinegar – you can’t even tell it’s in there, but it makes a difference.
  • Red pepper flakes: Just a half tsp makes all the difference!

Substitutions

  • I always use either diced tomatoes or whole tomatoes, depending on what I have in my pantry.
  • You can swap sugar or agave for the honey to make this a vegan pizza sauce.
  • If you don’t have Italian Seasoning, you can use dried oregano, dried basil, thyme and rosemary. I don’t usually use fresh herbs because I always have dried on hand.
  • Feel free to add a few pinches of onion powder if you like that flavor in your sauce.
4 photos showing how to make sauce

How To Make Homemade Pizza Sauce

  1. Add tomatoes, extra virgin olive oil, and the rest of the ingredients to a blender or food processor.
  2. Pulse until the tomatoes are broken down and all of it is combined.
  3. Pour the sauce into a fine mesh strainer and let the excess liquid drain out.
  4. When you’re ready, spread the sauce on your pizza dough and top with shredded mozzarella cheese and your favorite toppings. We love pepperoni!
Close up of pizza sauce in a glass jar

Expert Tips

  • Straining the sauce is really important. You want to remove all of the extra juices so your sauce doesn’t make your pizza soggy. Different brands of canned tomatoes have different amounts of liquid, so you may need to drain a lot or a little liquid depending on what you use. If you don’t have a mesh strainer, you can line a bowl with a few paper towels and pour the sauce on top to drain the juices through the towels.
  • Now’s the time to use a good quality brand of tomatoes. Since you’re not cooking the sauce, which would develop and concentrate the flavors, you don’t want to use a poor-quality can of tomatoes. I recommend using Hunt’s, Contadina, or San Marzano tomatoes.
  • This recipe makes enough for two pizzas, depending on how big they are. It’s one of the best sauces you’ll ever taste – just add your favorite toppings.
  • You can also use this as a dip for breadsticks!

Storing Pizza Sauce

  • The sauce will keep well for up to three days in the refrigerator.
  • You can put it in the freezer for up to a month in an airtight container.

FAQ

How many pizzas does this make? Can you double this recipe?

This is good for about two 12-inch round pizzas. You can also double the recipe easily.

Can this be made with an immersion blender?

You can use a blender or an immersion blender in place of the food processor.

close up of jar of pizza sauce
Print

No Cook Pizza Sauce Recipe

Easy Homemade NO COOK Pizza Sauce – this recipe is ready in 5 minutes with ingredients you already have! Homemade pizza is just minutes away.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 16 servings
Calories 14kcal
Author Dorothy Kern
Cost $6

Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes (or canned whole tomatoes)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • ½ teaspoon pepper flakes

Instructions

  • Place all ingredients in a food processor and pulse until combined.
  • Pour sauce into a fine mesh strainer and let the excess liquid drain out.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to one month.
  • This makes enough sauce for about 2 pizzas, depending on size.

Video

Notes

You can use whole canned tomatoes too if you prefer.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tablespoon | Calories: 14kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Fat: 1g | Sodium: 31mg | Sugar: 1g

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