Short Rib Pizza with Smoked Gouda Cream Sauce

Okay, let’s talk about pizza but not just any pizza. This Short Rib Pizza with Smoked Gouda Cream Sauce is a flavor bomb that takes your average slice to a whole new level. Imagine tender, melt-in-your-mouth short ribs layered on a rich, smoky, cheesy sauce, all nestled on a crispy crust. It’s indulgent, it’s cozy, and it’s basically what food dreams are made of.

Whether you’re throwing a casual dinner party, planning a cozy date night in, or just feel like treating yourself (because you deserve it!), this pizza is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Trust me you’re going to fall head over heels for it.

Why You’ll Love Short Rib Pizza with Smoked Gouda Cream Sauce

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Great for pizza night, dinner parties, or turning leftovers into something next level.

Budget-Friendly: Uses short ribs and cheese sauce in a way that stretches the ingredients beautifully.

Quick and Easy: Once the short ribs are cooked, the rest comes together quickly and easily.

Customizable: You can swap in other cheeses or toppings if you’re feeling creative.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Short Rib Pizza with Smoked Gouda Cream Sauce

This combo is savory, cheesy, and downright irresistible. Here’s how it all comes together:

Cooked Short Ribs: Tender, juicy, and packed with deep flavor—these are the stars of the show.

Pizza Dough: Your favorite store-bought or homemade dough will do the trick.

Smoked Gouda Cheese: Creamy, nutty, and slightly smoky this cheese brings a whole lot of personality.

Heavy Cream: Creates that rich, velvety base for the cheese sauce.

Garlic: Adds depth and a little kick to the sauce.

Parmesan Cheese: Boosts that savory, cheesy flavor even more.

Red Onion (optional): For a bit of sweet bite and extra color.

Fresh Herbs (like thyme or parsley): For brightness and a pop of green.

Olive Oil: Helps get that perfectly golden crust and finish.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat your oven to 475°F (or as high as your oven safely goes). A hot oven means a crispy crust and bubbling cheese yes, please.

Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan over medium heat, add cream and garlic. Bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in smoked Gouda and Parmesan until melted and smooth.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface, then transfer it to a baking sheet or pizza stone brushed with olive oil.

Assemble the Dish: Spread the creamy Gouda sauce over the dough, leaving a small border. Top with shredded short rib meat, red onion slices, and a sprinkle of herbs.

Cook to Perfection: Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the toppings are sizzling. Keep an eye on it ovens can vary!

Finishing Touches: Remove from the oven, drizzle with a touch of olive oil, and scatter on fresh herbs.

Serve and Enjoy: Slice it up and dig in while everything’s hot and melty. Pair it with a crisp salad or your favorite drink for the perfect meal.

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~560
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve Short Rib Pizza with Smoked Gouda Cream Sauce

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

• A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Garlic knots or crusty bread for extra dipping
• A glass of red wine or craft beer
• Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or asparagus
• A small cup of tomato soup on the side

Additional Tips

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

• Use leftover short ribs to save time
• If short on time, substitute with shredded rotisserie beef or brisket
• Don’t overdo the sauce a thin layer goes a long way
• Let the dough come to room temp before stretching
• Preheat your pizza stone if using one for an extra crispy crust
• Try adding caramelized onions for a sweet-savory twist
• Add crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick
• Use smoked mozzarella if you can’t find smoked Gouda
• Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a gourmet finish
• Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor

FAQ’s

1. Can I make this pizza with store-bought short ribs?
Yes! Leftover or pre-cooked short ribs work beautifully here.

2. What if I don’t have smoked Gouda?
Regular Gouda, smoked mozzarella, or even cheddar will work in a pinch.

3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely just store it in the fridge and reheat gently when ready.

4. How do I reheat leftovers?
Bake in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warm and crispy.

5. Can I freeze this pizza?
You can freeze the dough and cooked short ribs separately. Assemble fresh for best texture.

6. What kind of crust works best?
Thin or hand-tossed works great just avoid super thick crusts, which can overpower the toppings.

7. Can I use a white sauce base instead of cream?
Sure! A simple béchamel or Alfredo would be a tasty alternative.

8. Do I need to cook the onions beforehand?
Not necessary thinly sliced raw red onions will soften and sweeten while baking.

9. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written, but just swap in gluten-free pizza dough to make it so!

10. Can I grill this pizza?
Yes! Preheat your grill with a stone or heavy pan and cook the pizza over indirect heat until bubbly.

Conclusion

This Short Rib Pizza with Smoked Gouda Cream Sauce isn’t just dinner it’s an experience. Rich, savory, and unapologetically indulgent, it’s the kind of recipe that’ll have everyone asking for seconds (and thirds). Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself to something special, this pizza brings all the comfort and excitement you crave one irresistible slice at a time.

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