Irresistible BBQ Bacon Pizza

Craving a slice of comfort with a twist? Look no further than this mouthwatering Barbecue Bacon Pizza recipe that will have your taste buds singing with joy. Recreating the flavors of that beloved BBQ pizza joint near my college, this pizza strikes the perfect balance of smoky barbecue sauce, crispy bacon, and tangy red onion. Each bite is a burst of savory goodness that will have you reaching for more.

I remember the first time I made this Barbecue Bacon Pizza for my family and friends – it was an instant hit! Even the most die-hard pepperoni fans couldn’t resist its allure. The secret lies in the sweet-smoky barbecue sauce that replaces the traditional pizza sauce, creating a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting. Topped with a generous helping of gooey mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheese, this pizza is a celebration of all things savory and delicious. So fire up your oven, gather your loved ones, and get ready to experience the magic of homemade Barbecue Bacon Pizza like never before.

Quick Benefits

Perfect balance of sweet and smoky flavors
Rich and flavorful, satisfying as a meal on its own
Versatile – great for parties, customizable with different toppings
Reheats well in the oven for crispy leftovers

Why You’ll Love This Irresistible BBQ Bacon Pizza Recipe

Perfect Balance of Flavors: The sweet-smoky barbecue sauce, crispy bacon, tangy red onion, and sharp cheddar cheese create a flavor explosion in every bite.
Restaurant-Quality Taste: Tastes like something from a real pizzeria but made in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Family and Crowd Favorite: Even picky eaters love it – proven by the author’s brother-in-law and teenage daughter’s friends who couldn’t get enough.
Versatile and Customizable: Add grilled chicken, try different barbecue sauces, or add toppings like pineapple or jalapeños to suit your preferences.
Tips for Perfect Pizza: Learn from the author’s mistakes to avoid soggy pizza, overwhelming sauce, and chewy reheated slices.
Great for Parties: A unique twist on traditional pizza that pairs perfectly with cold beer for game days or gatherings.
Homemade Comfort: Experimenting with familiar ingredients in new ways can lead to a delicious, comforting meal that beats takeout any day.

Ingredients for Irresistible BBQ Bacon Pizza

Pizza Base

1 cup barbecue sauce (preferably smoky)
1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)

Toppings

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish (optional)
½ red onion, thinly sliced
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
8 ounces bacon, cooked and chopped

How to Make Irresistible BBQ Bacon Pizza

Step 1: Preheat oven

Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone in the oven to heat, if available.

Step 2: Prepare dough

On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to your preferred thickness and transfer it to a piece of parchment paper.

Step 3: Pre-bake crust

Bake the crust for 5-7 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 4: Add toppings

Evenly spread barbecue sauce over pre-baked crust, leaving a small border. Top with chopped bacon, mozzarella, cheddar cheeses, and red onion slices.

Step 5: Bake pizza

Place the pizza (with parchment paper) onto a preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden brown.

Step 6: Garnish and serve

Take out of the oven, allow to cool briefly, then garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before cutting and serving.

Storage Tips

To store the finished barbecue bacon pizza, it is best to wrap any leftover slices individually in foil or place them in an airtight container. This will help maintain the freshness and prevent the pizza from drying out in the refrigerator. When ready to enjoy the leftovers, you can reheat the slices in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes. This will help crisp up the crust and restore the flavors of the pizza, ensuring a delicious eating experience.

If you have leftover pizza that you won’t be consuming within a few days, you can freeze individual slices wrapped in foil. Freezing the pizza slices is a convenient way to preserve them for later consumption. When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen pizza slices, simply unwrap them and reheat them in the oven until heated through. Avoid using the microwave to reheat the pizza as it can make the crust chewy and affect the overall texture of the dish. By storing and reheating the barbecue bacon pizza properly, you can continue to savor its delicious flavors even after the initial baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have bacon on hand or prefer a different protein, you can easily substitute it with cooked sausage, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even diced ham. These alternatives will still provide that savory and meaty element to complement the smoky barbecue sauce and cheese.

For a vegetarian version, you can omit the bacon altogether and add sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even some grilled eggplant for a hearty and flavorful twist. These veggies will add a nice texture and depth of flavor to the pizza while still maintaining the balance of sweet and tangy flavors.

If you’re looking to change up the cheese blend, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as gouda, provolone, or even smoked gouda for a more complex flavor profile. Mixing and matching cheeses can add a new dimension to the pizza while still providing that gooey, melty goodness that everyone loves.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun twist on serving this barbecue bacon pizza, try cutting it into smaller squares or triangles as appetizers for your next gathering. This bite-sized version allows guests to enjoy the perfect balance of flavors in every bite without committing to a whole slice. Pair these mini pizzas with toothpicks for easy snacking and watch them disappear in no time!

To elevate your barbecue bacon pizza experience, consider adding a dollop of tangy sour cream or a drizzle of spicy sriracha on top before serving. The creamy and zesty additions provide a delightful contrast to the rich smoky flavors of the pizza, creating a burst of complexity that will leave your taste buds wanting more. This simple yet creative touch will take your homemade pizza game to the next level and impress even the most discerning foodies at your table.

FAQs for Irresistible BBQ Bacon Pizza

Can I use a different type of cheese for this pizza?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. Some good alternatives to mozzarella and cheddar for this barbecue bacon pizza include gouda, provolone, or even a blend of Monterey Jack and pepper jack for some extra kick.

Can I make this pizza vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can easily make this pizza vegetarian by omitting the bacon or replacing it with vegetarian bacon or smoked tofu strips for a similar smoky flavor. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives to enhance the flavors and textures.

How can I prevent the pizza from becoming soggy?

Pre-baking the pizza crust for a few minutes before adding the toppings helps create a barrier that prevents the crust from becoming soggy. Additionally, make sure not to overload the pizza with barbecue sauce or other wet ingredients, as this can also lead to sogginess. A well-drained topping like the cooked bacon will also help maintain the pizza’s crispiness.

Can I freeze the pizza dough for later use?

Yes, you can freeze pizza dough for later use. If you have leftover pizza dough or want to prepare it in advance, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to use it, let the dough thaw in the refrigerator overnight before bringing it to room temperature and shaping it into a pizza crust.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Barbecue Bacon Pizza is not just a recipe—it’s a delicious journey of flavors that brings friends and family together. Whether you’re a pizza purist or an adventurous foodie, this pizza has a way of winning hearts and taste buds. The sweet and smoky barbecue sauce, crispy bacon, and melted cheese create a symphony of flavors that will have everyone coming back for more.

So, next time you’re craving a slice of something special, remember the magic of Barbecue Bacon Pizza. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a family gathering, or simply treating yourself to a cozy night in, this pizza is sure to impress. Get creative with toppings, experiment with different barbecue sauces, and make it your own. Embrace the joy of homemade pizza that tastes even better than your favorite pizzeria. Let Barbecue Bacon Pizza be your go-to recipe for creating unforgettable moments around the table.