Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza: A Spicy Twist on Classic Pizza

This Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza is a flavorful take on the traditional pizza, combining the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the heat of Calabrian chilies. Topped with a rich marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil, this pizza is the perfect balance of spicy, savory, and fresh. The Calabrian chilies bring a unique and bold flavor that adds depth to every bite, while the roasted red peppers provide a sweet contrast. With a pre-made pizza crust, this dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight meal or a weekend treat.

Perfect for spice lovers or anyone craving something different from the usual pizza offerings, this pizza is sure to stand out. It’s also customizable to suit your preferences—feel free to add extra toppings or adjust the heat level to your liking. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family meal or impressing guests, this pizza is guaranteed to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfect Balance of Heat and Sweet

The combination of Calabrian chilies and roasted red peppers creates an irresistible contrast between spicy and sweet, ensuring a complex flavor profile in every bite.

2. Quick and Easy to Prepare

With just a few simple ingredients and a pre-made pizza crust, this pizza comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.

3. Melted Mozzarella Cheese

The melted mozzarella cheese adds richness and creaminess that perfectly complements the spicy and tangy flavors of the toppings.

4. Customizable Toppings

Feel free to add more ingredients like olives, onions, or sausage to make this pizza your own.

5. Fresh and Flavorful Garnish

The fresh basil leaves bring an aromatic and refreshing element to this dish, brightening up the spicy flavors and adding a beautiful touch.

Ingredients

• Pre-made pizza crust
• Marinara sauce
• Roasted red peppers (sliced)
• Calabrian chilies (chopped)
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Variations

• Add Protein: Top your pizza with Italian sausage, pepperoni, or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
• Add Vegetables: Consider adding additional veggies like onions, mushrooms, or arugula for more texture and flavor.
• Make It Spicier: If you love heat, add more Calabrian chilies or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before serving.
• Cheese Swap: If you prefer a different cheese, try using provolone, goat cheese, or a mix of your favorite Italian cheeses.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s fully heated for baking the pizza.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

Place your pre-made pizza crust on a baking sheet. You can use parchment paper to prevent sticking or lightly grease the sheet with oil.

Step 3: Spread the Sauce

Evenly spread the marinara sauce over the pizza crust, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.

Step 4: Add the Toppings

Top the sauce with sliced roasted red peppers, chopped Calabrian chilies, and shredded mozzarella cheese, making sure to distribute the ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Bake the Pizza

Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the pizza from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of freshness. Slice and serve hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Watch the Crust: If using a thinner crust, keep an eye on it while baking to ensure it doesn’t burn.
• Use High-Quality Cheese: For the best melt and flavor, opt for high-quality shredded mozzarella.
• Control the Heat: Adjust the amount of Calabrian chilies to your preferred spice level. You can also substitute with milder peppers if desired.
• Use a Pizza Stone: If you have one, baking on a pizza stone will help achieve an extra crispy crust.

How to Serve

Serve this Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza immediately after baking. Pair it with a simple side salad, such as a mixed greens salad with balsamic dressing, for a complete meal. This pizza is great for a casual dinner or as part of a pizza night with friends or family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes to ensure the crust stays crispy.

Freezing

You can freeze this pizza after baking. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It will keep for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, place the pizza slices on a baking sheet and heat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is melted.

FAQs

1. Can I use a homemade pizza crust?

Yes, feel free to use a homemade crust if you prefer. Just pre-bake it slightly before adding the toppings to ensure it cooks fully.

2. Can I make this pizza ahead of time?

You can prepare the pizza up to the point of baking and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. This way, you can quickly bake it when you’re ready to eat.

3. Can I substitute the Calabrian chilies?

If you don’t have Calabrian chilies, you can substitute them with another type of chili like Fresno or jalapeño, or even use red pepper flakes for some heat.

4. How do I store leftover pizza?

Leftover pizza should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crust’s crispiness.

5. Can I freeze this pizza?

Yes, this pizza can be frozen after baking. Wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy.

6. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add extra vegetables like onions, mushrooms, or spinach to the pizza before baking for added flavor and nutrition.

7. Is this pizza spicy?

Yes, the Calabrian chilies add a spicy kick to this pizza. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of chilies or omit them entirely.

8. Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, you can swap the mozzarella for provolone, goat cheese, or any other cheese that melts well.

9. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, store-bought marinara sauce works perfectly for this recipe. Just be sure to choose a high-quality sauce for the best flavor.

10. Can I add meat to this pizza?

Yes, you can add meats like sausage, pepperoni, or grilled chicken for a heartier pizza.

Conclusion

The Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza is a bold and exciting twist on the classic pizza. With its spicy Calabrian chilies, sweet roasted red peppers, and melty mozzarella cheese, it’s the perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this pizza is sure to satisfy. The best part? It comes together in just 25 minutes, making it an easy and delicious choice for any occasion.

Print