Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza

Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza

Get ready for a slice of pure magic this Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza brings the heat, the sweet, and the savory all in one glorious bite. Imagine gooey melted cheese, roasted red peppers that are just the right amount of smoky-sweet, and those zippy little Calabrian chilis that add a fiery kick in the best way possible. It’s bold. It’s beautiful. It’s the kind of pizza that turns a regular night into a flavor celebration. Trust me, your pizza game is about to level up in a major way.

This pizza isn’t just delicious it’s personality-packed. Whether you’re craving something unique, hosting a cozy pizza night with friends, or treating yourself after a long week, this combo is a total winner. It’s spicy, sweet, and ultra-satisfying.

Why You’ll Love Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza

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, game day, or just when you need something exciting and cheesy in your life.

Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients with bold flavors that feel gourmet without the price tag.

Quick and Easy: Prep it fast, bake it hot, and enjoy in under 30 minutes.

Customizable: Dial up the spice, switch the cheese, or toss on your favorite toppings this one’s open to interpretation.

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

Ingredients in Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza

Every element plays a flavorful role this is a pizza with attitude.

Pizza Dough: Your favorite store-bought or homemade dough works great. It’s the foundation for all that melty magic.

Roasted Red Peppers: Smoky, tender, and just a touch sweet they bring depth and a pop of vibrant color.

Calabrian Chilis (Chili Paste or Whole): The spicy stars! These Italian beauties bring bold, tangy heat that’s totally addictive.

Mozzarella Cheese: Melts to perfection, giving you that classic stretchy, cheesy goodness.

Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty kick that deepens every bite.

Olive Oil: A light drizzle before and after baking gives the crust that golden glow and elevates the flavor.

Garlic (minced): Because garlic makes everything better adds depth and aroma.

Fresh Basil (optional): For a pop of freshness and color right before serving.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Preheat Your Equipment

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you’re using a pizza stone or steel, place it in the oven now to heat up with it.

Combine Ingredients

In a small bowl, mix the Calabrian chili paste with olive oil and minced garlic. This becomes your spicy base layer instead of traditional tomato sauce.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel

Lightly flour your surface and stretch or roll out your pizza dough to your desired thickness. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet or preheated pizza stone.

Assemble the Dish

Brush your chili-garlic oil over the dough, covering the surface. Add shredded mozzarella, evenly distributed roasted red pepper strips, and sprinkle on the Parmesan. Add small dollops of extra chili paste if you’re feeling adventurous.

Cook to Perfection

Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Finishing Touches

Remove from the oven and let cool for 2–3 minutes. Top with fresh basil if using, and finish with a light drizzle of olive oil or extra chili oil if you love the heat.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice it up and dig in while it’s hot and gooey. Perfect on its own or paired with a crisp salad or a cold drink.

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~390
(Note: values may vary based on ingredients used)

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes

How to Serve Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza

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 for balance
  • Garlic knots or breadsticks for that classic pizza night feel
  • A glass of chilled white wine or citrusy sparkling water
  • Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sweet contrast to the spice
  • Add a fried egg on top for a brunch twist

Additional Tips

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

  • Use a pizza stone for an extra crispy bottom
  • Don’t overload with toppings less is more with this flavor-packed combo
  • Let the dough rest at room temp for easier stretching
  • Add crushed red pepper flakes if you want even more fire
  • Swap mozzarella for burrata or fontina for a fancy twist
  • Roast your own peppers for extra smoky depth
  • Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat in a skillet for crispiness
  • Want it vegetarian? It already is!
  • Add a sprinkle of oregano or chili flakes for even more flavor
  • Use naan or flatbread for a quick personal-sized version

FAQ’s

1. What are Calabrian chilis?
They’re spicy, slightly smoky Italian chili peppers often packed in oil or made into a paste.

2. Where can I find Calabrian chilis?
Look in the Italian section of your grocery store, or order online in jarred or paste form.

3. Can I make this pizza less spicy?
Yes use fewer chilis or mix the paste with more olive oil to mellow it out.

4. Is this pizza vegetarian?
Totally! Just be sure your cheeses are made without animal rennet.

5. Can I add meat?
Absolutely. Spicy sausage or pepperoni pair great with the peppers and chilis.

6. What kind of dough works best?
Any pizza dough! Store-bought, homemade, thin crust, thick crust it’s all good.

7. Can I grill this pizza?
Yes! Just pre-cook the dough slightly, then add toppings and finish on the grill.

8. Can I use jarred roasted red peppers?
Definitely. Just drain and pat them dry before using.

9. What’s a good cheese substitute for mozzarella?
Fontina, provolone, or even burrata work beautifully.

10. Can I make it ahead?
You can prep the toppings and dough ahead, but bake just before serving for best texture.

Conclusion

This Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza is everything you want in a pizza bold, beautiful, and bursting with flavor. With the sweet smokiness of roasted red peppers and the spicy zing of Calabrian chilis, every bite is an experience. It’s easy enough for weeknights, impressive enough for guests, and guaranteed to spice up your pizza routine. One slice and you’ll be hooked promise.

Print
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Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza

Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza

  • Author: Andy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 1 medium pizza (23 servings) 1x
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza is a bold, spicy-sweet artisan-style pizza layered with roasted red peppers, creamy mozzarella, and a zesty Calabrian chili oil for a kick of heat in every bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ball pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/3 cup pizza sauce or crushed San Marzano tomatoes
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
  • 23 tsp Calabrian chili paste or chopped Calabrian chilis
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
  • Optional: burrata or ricotta dollops, grated Parmesan

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while preheating.
  2. Roll out pizza dough on a floured surface into a 10–12 inch round.
  3. Transfer dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza peel.
  4. Spread pizza sauce evenly over the base.
  5. Top with shredded mozzarella, roasted red pepper strips, and Calabrian chili paste (dollop or swirl).
  6. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle garlic powder over the top.
  7. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
  8. Remove from oven, top with fresh basil and optional burrata or Parmesan. Slice and serve hot.

Notes

  • For more heat, add extra Calabrian chili or crushed red pepper flakes.
  • Use naan or flatbread for a quick version.
  • Pairs well with a drizzle of honey for a sweet contrast to the heat.
  • Make it vegetarian by ensuring your cheese is rennet-free.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/3 pizza
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: calabrian chili pizza, roasted red pepper pizza, spicy vegetarian pizza, artisan pizza, gourmet pizza

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