Spicy Pepperoni Pan Pizza Recipe
This Spicy Pepperoni Pan Pizza features a crispy homemade dough base topped with a rich blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, zesty pizza sauce infused with red chili flakes and Italian seasoning, spicy pepperoni slices, tangy pepperoncini, and a drizzle of hot honey for a perfect balance of heat and sweetness. The pan-baking method ensures a golden crust and melty cheese, making it an irresistible treat for spice lovers.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 1 10-inch pizza (serves 3-4)
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
Pizza Dough
- ¾ cup warm water (187 ml)
- 2 teaspoons instant dry yeast (6 grams)
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (296 grams)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil plus extra for drizzling (20 grams)
- 1 teaspoon salt
Toppings
- 5 ounces shredded sharp cheddar
- 3 ounces shredded mozzarella
- ¾ cup pizza sauce
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3 ounces sliced pepperoni
- 2 tablespoons sliced pepperoncini
- 2 tablespoons hot honey
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine ¾ cup warm water, 2 teaspoons instant dry yeast, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture is frothy, indicating the yeast is activated.
- Mix and Knead Dough: Add 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and 1 teaspoon salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare Pan and Shape Dough: Lightly oil a 10-inch pan and stretch or roll the risen dough to fit the pan evenly. Drizzle a little olive oil on top of the dough for extra crispiness.
- Add Sauce and Seasonings: Spread ¾ cup pizza sauce evenly over the dough. Sprinkle ½ teaspoon red chili flakes and ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning on top to infuse flavor and heat.
- Add Cheeses and Toppings: Generously sprinkle 5 ounces shredded sharp cheddar and 3 ounces shredded mozzarella over the sauce. Arrange 3 ounces sliced pepperoni and 2 tablespoons sliced pepperoncini evenly on the cheese layer.
- Bake the Pizza: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the pizza pan in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Finish with Hot Honey: Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately drizzle 2 tablespoons hot honey over the top for a sweet and spicy finish.
- Serve: Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving hot.
Notes
- Ensure water is warm but not hot to activate the yeast properly.
- For a crisper crust, preheat the pizza pan in the oven before placing the dough.
- Adjust red chili flakes to your preferred spice level.
- Hot honey can be substituted with chili-infused olive oil for less sweetness.
- Store leftovers refrigerated and reheat in a skillet or oven for best texture.
