If you’re ready to spice up your pizza night, meet your new obsession: Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza. This beauty brings the smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers together with the unmistakable kick of Calabrian chili paste, all nestled on a pillowy, golden crust. Creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and a shower of fresh basil make every bite bright, fiery, and altogether irresistible. Whether you’re looking to wow a table of friends or treat yourself to a flavor-packed meal, this pizza is destined to become a regular on your menu.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every component in Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza shines — simple, quality ingredients are the secret to a craveable crust, dreamy toppings, and unforgettable heat. Each one brings something special, so don’t skip or swap unless you have to!
- Pizza dough: The foundation of your pizza, whether store-bought or lovingly homemade, sets the stage for every delicious layer.
- Pizza sauce or crushed San Marzano tomatoes: Brings a bright, tangy freshness that complements the spicy and creamy toppings perfectly.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into ooey-gooey goodness, adding that classic stretch and satisfying texture.
- Roasted red peppers (sliced): Their sweet, smoky flavor balances all the heat, adding vibrant color and juicy bursts in each bite.
- Calabrian chili paste: The star of the show, this chili paste delivers deep heat and a flavorful, fruity spice that makes the pizza sing.
- Ricotta cheese (dolloped): Adds pockets of creamy, rich indulgence to mellow the chilis and bring balance.
- Olive oil: A final drizzle ensures a glossy finish and enhances all the robust flavors.
- Dried oregano: An herby, classic Italian touch that unites all the toppings beautifully.
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish): Adds aromatic freshness and a pop of fragrant green, right before serving.
- Optional crushed red pepper: For those who really love the heat, a sprinkle brings the fire!
How to Make Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Equipment
Let’s get things hot! Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside as it heats; this step is essential for a golden, crisp bottom that can handle piles of toppings without going soggy.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
Lightly flour your work surface and roll out your pizza dough into a 12-inch round. Don’t stress about perfect circles—it’s rustic! Carefully transfer your dough onto a piece of parchment paper, which makes it much easier to move onto your hot stone or pan.
Step 3: Build Your Delicious Layers
Now the flavor party begins. Spread the pizza sauce (or crushed tomatoes) evenly over the dough, leaving a small border all around for the crust. Next, sprinkle a generous, even layer of shredded mozzarella. Scatter the roasted red pepper slices for those sweet, smoky hits in every slice. Dollop on ricotta for craveable creaminess, then drizzle your Calabrian chili paste all across the top—it’s okay if it looks rustic! Finish with a sprinkle of dried oregano.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Using the parchment, transfer your pizza to the preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for 12–14 minutes, keeping an eye as the crust turns beautifully golden and the cheese is bubbling with hints of caramelization.
Step 5: Finishing Touches and Garnish
Once the Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza is out of the oven, drizzle with a little olive oil for luscious sheen and extra flavor. Add plenty of fresh basil leaves for that signature Italian aroma. Give it a minute or two to settle, slice, and enjoy immediately.
How to Serve Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of good garnishes! A handful of torn fresh basil brings incredible aroma and a pop of color. If you want even more heat, a quick shake of crushed red pepper is always welcome. Finally, a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt firms up the flavors, turning your Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza into an eye-catching centerpiece worthy of a dinner party—or just your weeknight palate.
Side Dishes
This pizza pairs effortlessly with a simple green salad dressed in a lemony vinaigrette, which helps cool down those smoky chilis. A side of marinated olives or a crisp fennel salad adds crunch and brightness. If you’re feeling indulgent, pour a glass of cold white wine—the acidity is magic with the creamy, spicy toppings.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza into squares instead of triangles for a fun, party-style bite. Serve on a rustic wooden board, scattering extra basil or microgreens around for a restaurant-style look. For an even more interactive spread, offer small bowls of extra ricotta, chili paste, or roasted peppers on the side so guests can customize their toppings as they go.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow have slices left, let them cool completely before storing. Place the pizza in an airtight container or wrap well in foil, then store in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors deepen and mellow, so a next-day slice is a treat!
Freezing
To freeze, arrange cooled slices in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. Frozen Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza keeps for up to two months and makes for a superb instant meal.
Reheating
Heat leftovers in a 400°F (200°C) oven directly on the rack or on a baking sheet for 6–8 minutes, until the cheese is melty again and the crust is re-crisped. You can reheat in a skillet over medium heat, too—just cover loosely and let that bottom get crispy.
FAQs
Can I make Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza without Calabrian chili paste?
You can substitute with your favorite chili paste or crushed red pepper flakes if you’re in a pinch, but the unique fruity heat of Calabrian chili paste really does make this pizza special.
What’s the best way to roast red peppers if I want to make them at home?
Simply roast whole red peppers under a broiler or over a gas flame until charred, then let them steam in a covered bowl for 10 minutes and peel off the skins. Slice and use as desired!
Can I make this pizza gluten-free?
Absolutely—use a good gluten-free pizza dough, found in many stores or made at home, to enjoy all the flavors of Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza safely.
Is there a vegan version of this pizza?
You can easily make it vegan by using dairy-free cheeses and a plant-based ricotta. The bold flavors of the sauce and chilis mean none of the excitement is lost.
How spicy is this pizza?
The Calabrian chili paste brings a noticeable but manageable heat. Adjust the amount to your personal spice tolerance, and let guests add more at the table if they’re feeling adventurous.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza, you’ll be hooked. It’s an easy way to taste a piece of Italy with those spicy, creamy, and smoky elements mingling together perfectly. Gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and get ready for a slice that truly delivers on flavor!
Print
Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza Recipe
- Total Time: 29 minutes
- Yield: 1 (12-inch) pizza 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a flavor-packed Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza topped with creamy ricotta and a kick of spice. This gourmet pizza is a perfect blend of heat and savory goodness.
Ingredients
Pizza Dough:
- 1 ball pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Pizza Toppings:
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or crushed San Marzano tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers (sliced)
- 1 tablespoon Calabrian chili paste
- 1/4 cup ricotta cheese (dolloped)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Optional crushed red pepper for extra heat
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C) with a pizza stone or baking sheet inside.
- Prepare Dough: Roll out the pizza dough into a 12-inch round on a floured surface and transfer to parchment paper.
- Add Toppings: Spread pizza sauce, mozzarella, red peppers, ricotta, Calabrian chili paste, and oregano on the dough.
- Bake: Transfer pizza to the preheated stone or sheet and bake for 12–14 minutes until golden.
- Finish: Drizzle with olive oil, garnish with basil, and serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust Calabrian chili paste to taste preference.
- Pair with a green salad or white wine for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of pizza)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
