When you’re craving something bold and full of flavor, this Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza is the answer. Imagine a crispy, golden crust topped with creamy mozzarella, roasted red peppers, and just the right amount of spicy kick from Calabrian chilies. Each bite offers a perfect balance of heat, savory cheese, and the sweet richness of roasted peppers. This pizza is a game-changer it’s exciting, comforting, and sure to become a new favorite. Whether you’re hosting a pizza night or just indulging in a personal slice of heaven, this pizza will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about the experience of biting into a pizza that’s both comforting and adventurous. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Top this pizza with additional ingredients like sausage, mushrooms, or olives to make it your own.

Budget-Friendly: With simple ingredients, you can make a gourmet pizza at home without breaking the bank.

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner when you want something special but don’t have a ton of time.

Customizable: Adjust the spice level by adding more or less of the Calabrian chilies, and you can even swap out the mozzarella for a different cheese.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit for spice lovers and anyone who enjoys a flavorful, hearty pizza.

Ingredients in Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza

Here’s the lineup of ingredients that come together to create this spicy, flavorful pizza:

Pizza Dough: A crispy, chewy base that holds all the toppings perfectly.

Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh and melty mozzarella cheese for that classic pizza texture.

Calabrian Chiles: These spicy, tangy chilies give the pizza a bold kick that’s not overpowering but definitely packs a punch.

Roasted Red Peppers: Sweet, smoky, and slightly charred, these peppers are the perfect counterpoint to the heat from the chilies.

Olive Oil: To brush the crust for an extra layer of flavor and golden crispiness.

Garlic: A little minced garlic brings out the savory flavors in the pizza.

Parmesan Cheese: For a little extra richness and umami on top.

Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a fragrant, herbal note that brightens the whole pizza.

Salt and Pepper: To season everything to perfection.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this bold, spicy pizza:

Preheat Your Equipment

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). This will ensure a crispy crust and nicely melted cheese.

Prepare the Dough

Roll out your pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza stone.

Add the Toppings

Brush the pizza dough with olive oil and sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over the top. Spread the roasted red peppers and Calabrian chilies evenly on the dough.

Add the Cheese

Top the pizza with a generous layer of mozzarella cheese, then sprinkle with parmesan cheese for an extra depth of flavor.

Bake to Perfection

Transfer the pizza to the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve

Remove the pizza from the oven and sprinkle with fresh basil. Slice, serve, and enjoy the spicy, cheesy goodness.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4 servings
Calories per serving: 350 calories

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes

How to Serve Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza

This pizza pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

Serve with a crisp green salad to balance out the heat of the chilies.

Pair with a side of garlic bread for a perfect pizza night combo.

A chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, would complement the spicy heat of the Calabrian chilies beautifully.

For a heartier meal, serve with roasted vegetables or a creamy dipping sauce to cool things down.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

Adjust the amount of Calabrian chilies to suit your spice tolerance—start with a small amount and add more if you like it hotter.

If you prefer a thinner crust, roll out the dough thinner before baking.

For an even smokier flavor, try using smoked mozzarella or adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the crust.

Make sure to brush the dough with enough olive oil to get that golden, crispy finish.

If you want to add protein, cooked sausage, pepperoni, or chicken would be delicious additions.

FAQ’s

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

2. Can I use jarred roasted red peppers instead of fresh?
Yes, jarred roasted red peppers work perfectly fine for this recipe.

3. How spicy are Calabrian chilies?
Calabrian chilies are moderately spicy with a bit of tang. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use provolone, fontina, or even goat cheese for a different flavor.

5. What can I serve with this pizza?
Pair it with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

6. Can I freeze the pizza dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before using.

7. Can I make this pizza vegetarian?
Absolutely! The roasted red peppers and Calabrian chilies are the stars here, so it’s already a great vegetarian option.

8. Can I use fresh chilies instead of Calabrian chilies?
Yes, you can use fresh red chilies, but the flavor may be slightly different. Calabrian chilies have a unique smoky and tangy taste.

9. How do I prevent the pizza from getting soggy?
Make sure to bake the pizza on a hot surface (like a pizza stone) to help keep the crust crispy.

10. Can I make this pizza spicy without the chilies?
If you want the spice without the chilies, you can add red pepper flakes or drizzle a spicy hot sauce on top after baking.

Conclusion

This Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza is everything you want in a pizza crispy, cheesy, and bursting with bold flavors. The combination of spicy chilies, smoky red peppers, and melted mozzarella creates a mouthwatering experience that will leave you coming back for more. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual pizza night with friends, this recipe is sure to be a favorite in your pizza rotation. So, fire up the oven, grab a slice, and enjoy the perfect balance of heat, cheese, and flavor!

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