Get ready for an irresistible showstopper with a bold kick: Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza. This pizza is the perfect marriage of sweet, smoky roasted red peppers and fiery, flavorful Calabrian chilis on a bubbly, golden crust with melty cheese. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just want to spice up your next pizza night, this recipe brings big Italian flavors with very little fuss. Prepare for bite after bite of cheesy, saucy, spicy goodness!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza is how each simple ingredient transforms into something unforgettable. Every choice here matters, from your dough to the final sprinkle of basil, ensuring every slice bursts with color, texture, and flavor worth savoring.
- Pizza dough: Whether homemade or store-bought, a good dough gives your pizza that chewy-crisp foundation we all crave.
- Marinara or pizza sauce: This layer sets the stage for all the flavors to mingle, so pick a sauce you love.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a creamy, stretchy blanket, creating that iconic pizza pull and mild flavor balance.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: A savory punch of umami that brings depth and a hint of nuttiness to each bite.
- Jarred Calabrian chilis: The heart of the heat! Adjust the amount for a milder or bolder experience.
- Roasted red bell peppers: Their sweetness and soft texture contrast perfectly with the spicy chilis.
- Olive oil: Just a drizzle helps meld the toppings and encourages bubbling, golden edges.
- Dried oregano: A pinch of classic Italian herb flavor that ties everything together.
- Fresh basil leaves: For a vibrant, fragrant finishing touch that screams freshness.
- Cornmeal or flour for dusting: Prevents sticking and adds a subtle crunch to your crust’s bottom.
How to Make Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Crank your oven up to 500°F, or as hot as it safely goes. If you have a pizza stone, pop that in now to get it ripping hot; otherwise, a baking sheet works perfectly. This high heat is what gives your Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza that classic airy, slightly blistered crust.
Step 2: Shape the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, stretch or roll your dough into a rough 12-inch circle. Don’t worry about achieving perfection—those little irregularities only make it feel more rustic and homemade. Transfer the dough to a cornmeal- or flour-dusted pizza peel or baking sheet to keep it from sticking later.
Step 3: Sauce and Cheese
Spread your favorite marinara or pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving about a half-inch border for that golden, puffy edge. Next, shower on the shredded mozzarella and then sprinkle the Parmesan. They’ll melt together, forming a gooey layer that perfectly cradles the bold toppings to come.
Step 4: Toppings Galore
Scatter the roasted red pepper strips and sliced Calabrian chilis over the cheese, distributing them so every bite offers a mix of sweet, spicy, and creamy. Drizzle the olive oil over the whole pizza and finish with a sprinkle of dried oregano. Trust me, this is where the aroma magic begins!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
This is the moment where everything transforms. Gently slide your pizza onto the preheated stone or baking sheet, then bake for 8 to 12 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden, the cheese is bubbling, and the chilis are just lightly singed. The kitchen will smell absolutely intoxicating.
Step 6: Finish and Slice
Let your pie rest for a couple of minutes after baking—tough as that may be! Garnish with plenty of fresh basil leaves for a burst of herbal freshness. Now, slice into wedges and get ready for that first outrageously satisfying bite.
How to Serve Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza
Garnishes
Nothing elevates a just-baked pie quite like the right garnish. A tumble of torn fresh basil is mandatory, but don’t be afraid to go further! A little drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil or a spoonful of Calabrian chili oil goes a long way. For even more Italian flair, finish with flaked sea salt or a shower of extra Parmesan.
Side Dishes
Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza pairs beautifully with simple sides. A crisp green salad tossed with lemony vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while grilled vegetables or a cool antipasto platter round out your meal. Even a bowl of marinated olives or garlicky white bean dip can make pizza night feel like an Italian feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Make it a pizza party centerpiece by slicing it into small, shareable squares and arranging on a big wooden board. Or pair your Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza with mini shots of tomato soup as a cozy starter at gatherings. For an elegant night in, serve with a chilled glass of crisp white wine or a sparkling Italian soda.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, wrap slices tightly in foil or store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors of the Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza meld deliciously overnight, making for an amazing quick lunch or midnight snack.
Freezing
Pop any extra slices in a freezer-safe bag with parchment between layers. When you’re craving pizza later, just reheat straight from the freezer—Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza freezes beautifully, retaining its satisfying chew and kick.
Reheating
For the meltiest cheese and crispiest crust, reheat your pizza slices in a hot oven (425°F for about 7 minutes, directly on the rack) or in a hot skillet for a few minutes with a lid on top. The microwave works in a pinch, but it won’t keep your crust snappy.
FAQs
How spicy is Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza?
The heat level is quite customizable! Calabrian chilis offer a complex, fruity heat that isn’t overwhelming, especially balanced by the sweet roasted red peppers and creamy cheese. Use less or rinse the chilis for a milder experience, or pile them on for extra fire.
Can I use another type Main Course
You can substitute with other jarred hot Italian chilis, pickled cherry peppers, or even a touch of crushed red pepper flakes, but authentic Calabrian chilis really do provide a distinctive flavor and slow-building heat.
What’s the best way to get a crisp bottom crust?
Preheating your baking surface—whether it’s a pizza stone or a sturdy baking tray—is the secret. Dusting your peel or baking sheet with cornmeal or flour helps too, so your Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza lifts off easily with a beautifully crisp base.
Can I make the pizza dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! Store-bought dough keeps things easy, but if you make homemade dough, you can do it up to three days ahead and keep it in the fridge, or freeze it for up to a month. Let it come to room temperature before shaping for best results.
Is Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza vegetarian?
Yes, as written, this recipe is completely vegetarian! To add extra protein, try sprinkling on cooked Italian sausage or pepperoni—just be sure to adjust for spice.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a pizza that breaks the ordinary, Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza is calling your name. It’s a vibrant, memorable pie that never disappoints—spicy, savory, sweet, and endlessly satisfying. Gather your ingredients and treat yourself (and your lucky friends!) to a slice of something truly special tonight.
Print
Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 1 12-inch pizza (serves 2–3)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the bold flavors of Calabrian chilis and roasted red peppers with this delicious homemade pizza recipe. The perfect combination of spicy and savory, this Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
Pizza Dough:
- 1 pound pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
Toppings:
- 1/2 cup marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced jarred Calabrian chilis (adjust to heat preference)
- 1/2 cup roasted red bell peppers (sliced into thin strips)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Cornmeal or flour for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 500°F (or as high as it will safely go) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
- Prepare the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, stretch or roll out the pizza dough into a 12-inch round. Sprinkle cornmeal or flour on a pizza peel or another baking sheet and transfer the dough onto it.
- Add Toppings: Spread marinara sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan cheeses, roasted red peppers, and Calabrian chilis over the dough. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with oregano.
- Bake: Transfer the pizza onto the preheated stone or baking sheet and bake for 8–12 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves, slice, and enjoy!
Notes
- For a spicier kick, use more Calabrian chilis or add Calabrian chili oil before serving.
- Add Italian sausage or pepperoni for extra protein, or rinse chilis for a milder flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/3 pizza
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
