Take your homemade pizza game to the next level with this Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza — a fiery, cheesy, and unforgettable combination. The star of the show is Calabrian chili paste: spicy, smoky, and deeply savory. Paired with sweet roasted red peppers, melty mozzarella, and a crispy golden crust, this pizza brings bold Italian flavor to every bite.
Whether you’re making pizza night extra special or just want to spice things up, this pizza is perfect for anyone who loves a little heat with their cheese.
🛒 Ingredients
For the dough (or use 1 store-bought pizza crust):
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon sugar
For the toppings:
- 1 tablespoon Calabrian chili paste (adjust to taste)
- ½ cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1 ½ cups shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup ricotta cheese (optional for creamy pockets)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough (Skip if using store-bought)
- In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until dough comes together.
- Knead on a floured surface for 7–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled in size.
Step 2: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
Step 3: Prepare the Pizza
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza peel.
- Spread Calabrian chili paste over the crust as your sauce — use more or less depending on your heat preference.
- Top with shredded mozzarella, roasted red peppers, dollops of ricotta (if using), and Parmesan.
- Drizzle olive oil over the top for extra richness.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
Step 5: Finish & Serve
Remove from the oven. Top with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like it extra spicy. Slice and serve hot.
🍽 Nutrition Info (per slice – serves 8)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
Values may vary depending on crust thickness and cheese types used.
✅ Tips & Tricks
- Adjust the heat: Calabrian chili paste is spicy. Start with less and add more to taste.
- No Calabrian chili paste? Use crushed Calabrian chilis or a spicy arrabbiata sauce.
- Make it smoky: Add a handful of smoked mozzarella or provolone for extra depth.
- Add protein: Sliced spicy sausage, soppressata, or prosciutto pairs beautifully.
- Crispier crust: Bake directly on a preheated pizza stone or steel.
🍴 Serving Suggestions
Pair this spicy pizza with:
- A cool arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
- A crisp lager or chilled red wine (like Lambrusco)
- Garlic knots or marinated olives on the side
This pizza is perfect for Friday nights, date nights, or impressing guests with bold flavors.
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