Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza Recipe

Get ready for a slice of bold, irresistible flavor with this Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza. Spicy, sweet, and utterly crave-worthy, this pizza brings together the mellow smokiness of roasted red peppers, the heat of Calabrian chilies, and a touch of honey, all nestled on a sesame-sprinkled crust. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as perfect for cozy nights in as it is for lively gatherings, offering a vibrant spin on classic pizza that might just become your new obsession.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need a complicated shopping list to create this delicious showstopper. Every ingredient in this Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza recipe plays a key part, bringing heat, richness, or a little crunch to each bite.

• Pizza dough ball (⅓–½ lb): The foundation for your pizza, offering a chewy and crisp texture; if you prefer homemade, go for it, but store-bought works beautifully as well.
• Sesame seeds, for sprinkling: These add a nutty crunch to the crust and make this pizza visually pop.
• Marinara sauce (⅓ cup): Provides a sweet, tangy base that complements the spicy and smoky toppings perfectly.
• Crushed Calabrian chili paste (2 tbsp): The star ingredient bringing a unique, vibrant heat and a punch of umami flavor.
• Roasted red peppers (1 jar, 16 ounces, drained and sliced): Lend a gentle smokiness and vivid red color to every slice.
• Fish sauce (2 tsp): Optional but highly recommended for an extra layer of savory depth.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (¾ cup): Melts into that perfect, gooey pizza topping.
• Shredded provolone cheese (¾ cup): Adds creaminess and just a hint of sharpness to the cheese blend.
• Dried oregano (1 tsp): Scattered over for a hint of classic Italian fragrance and flavor.
• Honey, for serving: A light drizzle at the end adds a delicate sweetness that balances the spicy kick.

How to Make Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 450° F. A hot oven is crucial for that irresistibly crisp, golden crust that makes this Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza shine. Set out all your ingredients and allow them to come closer to room temperature if you have the time—it helps everything come together perfectly later.

Step 2: Shape the Dough and Prep the Crust

On a lightly floured surface, gently stretch, press, or roll your pizza dough into a thin circle, roughly 10–12 inches across. Transfer the dough to a baking sheet lined with parchment for easy cleanup. Lightly brush the edge of the dough with olive oil and sprinkle generously with sesame seeds, pressing them lightly so they stick. This gives your crust a gorgeous golden crunch and a subtle, nutty flavor.

Step 3: Build Your Flavor Base

Spread the marinara sauce evenly, leaving a small border for the sesame-crusted edge. Spoon and swirl the crushed Calabrian chili paste directly over the sauce—don’t be shy! Arrange the roasted red peppers over the sauced dough, spreading them out so every bite gets some of that sweet, smoky flavor.

Step 4: Layer and Season

If you’re using fish sauce, drizzle it across the toppings at this stage; it quietly brings a savory, umami punch that people will love, even if they can’t quite put their finger on it. Sprinkle on the dried oregano for a classic herby undertone. Generously scatter both the mozzarella and provolone cheese all over, making sure it reaches the edges for those crispy, cheesy bites.

Step 5: Bake and Finish

Slide your creation into the oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye out: the ideal Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza is golden around the edges, bubbling with molten cheese, and a little char on those peppers is perfection. When it’s done, remove the pizza, sprinkle with another tiny pinch of dried oregano, and finish with a lacy drizzle of honey. This last touch is pure magic, offsetting the chili’s heat with a kiss of sweetness.

How to Serve Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza

Garnishes

A scattering of fresh basil leaves instantly livens up every slice of Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza, while a dusting of grated parmesan ups the savoriness. If you want to turn up the heat, sprinkle some extra Calabrian chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil right before serving.

Side Dishes

Bright, crisp salads work like a charm with this pizza—think arugula with shaved parmesan or a tangy fennel-citrus mix. For gatherings, set out small bowls of marinated olives or a simple antipasto platter to keep things festive and varied alongside the Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider slicing your pizza into smaller strips or squares for a party-friendly appetizer. For a memorable touch, serve on a wooden board garnished with extra roasted red peppers and a few spoons of Calabrian chili paste on the side, letting guests adjust their heat level as they like.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover leftover Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza slices tightly and store them in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay delicious for up to three days. Separate layers with parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and tuck them into a sealed freezer bag. They’re best enjoyed within two months. This makes it easy to pull out just what you need for a quick, flavor-packed meal or snack.

Reheating

For the crispiest results, reheat Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza in a 400° F oven or toaster oven for a few minutes until the crust is revived and cheeses are melty. Microwaving works too, but tends to soften the crust.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of chili paste if I can’t find Calabrian?

Absolutely! While Calabrian chili paste brings a special fruity heat, you can substitute with other Italian chili pastes, harissa, or even a spoonful of your favorite hot sauce in a pinch. Adjust the quantity to match your spice preference.

What if I don’t eat fish sauce?

No worries—you can simply skip it, or use a plant-based umami booster like a dash of soy sauce or a hint of miso paste. The Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza will still be full of robust, balanced flavors.

Can I make this pizza gluten-free?

Yes! Use your favorite gluten-free pizza dough as the base. Most of the toppings are naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy this delicious pizza with just a simple swap.

Is there a way to make it extra cheesy?

Go ahead and add more mozzarella or experiment with other cheeses like fontina or smoked gouda. Just don’t overdo it, or the pizza may get soggy—aim for a well-balanced cheese layer.

How spicy is Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza?

It has a moderate, pleasant heat that lingers rather than overwhelms. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a bit less chili paste and add more after baking if you crave extra fire.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a pizza that captures the perfect marriage of sweet, smoky, spicy, and salty, Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza is the answer. It’s comforting, surprising, and incredibly easy to pull off at home. Gather your friends or treat yourself to something special—you absolutely deserve it!

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