Savory BBQ Bacon Pizza Recipe

Are you ready to elevate your pizza game with a flavor-packed delight? Look no further than our Barbecue Bacon Pizza Smoky recipe! This pizza is the epitome of mouthwatering goodness, combining the rich, smoky notes of barbecue sauce with crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and a hint of spice. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings together comfort and bold taste effortlessly, making it perfect for casual dinners or family game nights.

The magic begins with a base of smoky barbecue sauce, topped with a generous helping of shredded mozzarella and smoked gouda (or cheddar) cheese. Add in some savory cooked bacon, shredded chicken, and thinly sliced red onions for a burst of flavor in every bite. The finishing touch of smoked paprika and fresh cilantro or scallions takes this pizza to the next level of deliciousness.

Whether you’re using store-bought pizza dough for convenience or opting for a homemade crust, this recipe is a winner. Feel free to customize by swapping out ingredients like chicken for pulled pork or turkey, or experimenting with different cheese varieties. Get ready to savor the cheesy, smoky goodness of our Barbecue Bacon Pizza Smoky – a modern twist on a classic that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

Quick Benefits

• Ultimate Party Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings and game nights, this pizza is a crowd-pleaser with its sweet smoky flavors and cheesy goodness.
• Convenient Leftovers: Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat for a quick and delicious meal, or freeze individual slices for easy snacks.
• Versatile: Customize with different cheeses, meats, or veggies to suit your preferences or use up leftovers from other meals.
• Easy Preparation: Whether using store-bought or homemade dough, this pizza comes together easily with simple ingredients and preheating tips for a perfect crust.

Why You’ll Love This Savory BBQ Bacon Pizza Recipe Recipe

• Ultimate Flavor Combination: Sweet and smoky barbecue sauce, gooey cheese, crispy bacon, and flavorful chicken create a taste explosion that will leave you craving more.
• Comfort Food Made Easy: This recipe offers big bold flavors without the hassle of complicated steps, making it perfect for a satisfying and stress-free meal.
• Versatile and Adaptable: You can easily customize this pizza with your favorite ingredients like different cheeses, meats, or vegetables to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Family Favorite: The cheesy stretch from the smoked gouda, combined with the savory bacon topping, will have everyone fighting over the last slice, making it a perfect dish for family game night or gatherings.
• Make-ahead and Freezer-friendly: Leftovers can be easily stored and reheated, making it a convenient option for meal prep or a quick snack whenever you need it.
• California Classic with a Twist: Inspired by the famous California barbecue chicken pizza, this bacon version adds a modern twist that is sure to become a new family tradition.
• Perfect Pairings: Enjoy this pizza with a simple green salad, roasted corn, or as an appetizer for entertaining. Pair it with a cold beer or homemade lemonade for a complete and satisfying meal experience.

Ingredients for Savory BBQ Bacon Pizza Recipe

Dough and Base

• 1 pizza dough ball, homemade or store-bought
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Sauce and Cheese

• 50 g shredded smoked gouda or cheddar
• 120 ml smoky barbecue sauce (such as hickory or chipotle-style)
• 100 g shredded mozzarella cheese

Toppings

• 4 strips cooked bacon, chopped
• 30 g red onion, thinly sliced
• 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 60 g cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced

Garnish (optional)

• Chopped fresh cilantro or scallions

Pro Tips for Savory BBQ Bacon Pizza Recipe

To make the best Barbecue Bacon Pizza, consider preheating your baking sheet or pizza stone before assembling the pizza. This step helps to create a crisp base, especially when using store-bought dough. Additionally, brushing the edges of the pizza with olive oil before baking will give them a beautiful golden finish and enhance the overall flavor.

Experiment with different cheese options to customize your pizza. While smoked gouda is recommended for its creamy texture and smokiness, smoked cheddar, provolone, or extra mozzarella can also deliver a rich, smoky taste. Feel free to mix and match cheeses based on your preferences or what you have on hand for a delicious twist on this classic recipe.

For a quick and easy snack or meal, consider making extra Barbecue Bacon Pizza to have leftovers. Store individual slices in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat them in a hot oven for about seven minutes to bring the crust back to life and melt the cheese perfectly. You can also freeze slices for later enjoyment; simply wrap them tightly and bake straight from frozen whenever a craving strikes.

How to Make Savory BBQ Bacon Pizza Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Surface

Preheat the oven to 245°C (475°F) with a pizza stone or heavy baking tray inside to heat up.

Step 2: Shape and Prepare Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to the desired thickness. Brush the outer edge with olive oil for a golden crust.

Step 3: Apply Sauce and Layer Cheeses

Evenly spread barbecue sauce on the dough, leaving a border. Top with mozzarella and smoked gouda or cheddar.

Step 4: Add Protein and Aromatics

Evenly spread shredded chicken, chopped bacon, and thin slices of red onion on the surface. Sprinkle smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.

Step 5: Bake Pizza

Place the prepared pizza on the preheated stone or baking tray. Bake for 10-13 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Take out of the oven and let cool for 2 to 3 minutes. Top with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired. Slice and serve immediately while hot.

Storage Tips

After enjoying your delicious Barbecue Bacon Pizza, store any leftovers properly to keep them fresh. Place leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat the slices in a hot oven for about seven minutes. This will help revive the crust and melt the cheese, making the pizza taste just as good as fresh.

If you have more pizza than you can eat in a few days, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then store them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat, you can pop the frozen pizza slices directly into the oven without thawing. This is a convenient way to enjoy a quick and tasty snack or meal whenever you crave that smoky, cheesy goodness of your Barbecue Bacon Pizza.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have smoked gouda, you can easily swap it with smoked cheddar, provolone, or simply extra mozzarella cheese. These alternatives will still provide a rich and smoky flavor to your barbecue bacon pizza.

If you’re looking to make this pizza vegetarian, you can skip the chicken altogether or substitute it with pulled pork, beef, or even more vegetables. Mushrooms or grilled peppers are excellent choices to maintain a smoky flavor profile without the meat.

For a quicker option, store-bought pizza dough works well in this recipe and can save you time. However, if you prefer homemade dough, it is also a great choice and can add a personal touch to your pizza creation.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation of your Barbecue Bacon Pizza, consider serving it on a rustic wooden board or a vibrant platter. Garnish the pizza with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro and thinly sliced scallions for a burst of color and freshness. For added flair, drizzle a zigzag of extra barbecue sauce on top before slicing and serving to enhance the smoky flavor profile.

For a fun twist, cut the Barbecue Bacon Pizza into smaller, bite-sized squares and serve them as an appetizer at your next gathering. Pair these mini pizza squares with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or spicy chipotle mayo to offer a customizable and interactive dining experience for your guests. This creative presentation will surely be a hit and make your pizza night a memorable one!

FAQs for Savory BBQ Bacon Pizza Recipe

Can I use store-bought pizza dough instead of making homemade dough?

Yes, store-bought pizza dough works well and saves time. Homemade dough is also a great choice if preferred.

Can I substitute smoked gouda with other cheeses?

Smoked cheddar, provolone, or extra mozzarella can substitute for gouda and still deliver a rich, smoky taste.

Can I make this pizza without chicken or with a different protein?

Yes, you can omit the chicken or replace it with pulled pork, beef, or extra vegetables for variation.

Any tips for getting a crispy base and golden edges on the pizza?

Preheating your baking sheet or pizza stone ensures a crisp base. Brushing edges with oil adds a golden finish.

Conclusion

I hope this recipe for Barbecue Bacon Pizza Smoky brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine. The combination of sweet barbecue sauce, crispy bacon, and smoky cheeses creates a flavor explosion that is sure to satisfy any pizza lover. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or hosting a gathering with friends and family, this pizza is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings and make this recipe your own. Whether you switch up the cheeses, try different meats, or add some extra veggies, the possibilities are endless. The beauty of homemade pizza is that you can tailor it to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

So, fire up your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a slice of pure deliciousness with this Barbecue Bacon Pizza Smoky. It’s a dish that never fails to impress and is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Happy cooking and even happier eating!