Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza is a bold and flavorful twist on a classic, combining the smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers with the fiery kick of Calabrian chilies. The rich tomato base, gooey melted cheese, and perfectly crisp crust create the ultimate balance of heat, sweetness, and savory goodness. Every bite is packed with vibrant flavors that make this pizza truly unforgettable.
The first time I made this pizza, I wanted something with a little heat but not overpowering—just enough to keep things exciting. The roasted red peppers added a subtle smokiness, while the Calabrian chilies brought just the right amount of spice. The combination was incredible, making for a pizza that was both comforting and full of bold, dynamic flavors.
What I love about Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza is how it brings a gourmet feel to a simple, homemade dish. Whether you’re making it for a casual pizza night or impressing guests, this pizza delivers on both flavor and texture. Serve it with a drizzle of honey for a hint of sweetness, or enjoy it as is—either way, it’s a fiery, delicious favorite you’ll want to make again and again!
Perfect for:
- Spicy food lovers
- Casual gatherings
- Pizza nights
- Game day snacks
- Italian cuisine enthusiasts
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 9 reasons why this Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza will become a favorite in your kitchen:
- Bold and Spicy Flavor: Calabrian chilies bring an addictive heat that perfectly complements the sweetness of roasted red peppers.
- Restaurant-Quality Pizza at Home: Get a gourmet-style pizza without needing a wood-fired oven.
- Perfectly Balanced Heat: The spice level is bold but not overwhelming, making it enjoyable for all.
- Crispy and Chewy Crust: Achieve a perfect balance of crunch and chew with a well-proofed dough.
- Simple Yet Sophisticated: Minimal ingredients allow the quality flavors to shine.
- Versatile Toppings: Customize the pizza with additional ingredients like olives, sausage, or ricotta.
- Great for Sharing: This pizza is perfect for entertaining or enjoying with family and friends.
- Quick and Easy to Make: Simple steps make this a go-to recipe for any night of the week.
- Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Calabrian chilies to match your heat preference.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including dough rising time)
- Preparation Time: 1 hour
- Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
- Servings: 4-6 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 12g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 15g
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Toppings:
- ½ cup pizza sauce (or crushed San Marzano tomatoes)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1 tablespoon Calabrian chilies, finely chopped
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan (optional, for serving)
Ingredient Highlights
- Calabrian Chilies: Known for their smoky, fruity heat, these chilies elevate the flavor profile.
- Roasted Red Peppers: Provide natural sweetness and a tender texture to balance the spice.
- San Marzano Tomatoes: If using fresh or canned, they give an authentic, rich base to the pizza sauce.
- Olive Oil: Enhances the crust and adds depth of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
- Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, mix warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add olive oil and the yeast mixture.
- Knead the Dough: Knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 45-60 minutes until doubled in size.
Prepare the Toppings:
- Slice the Roasted Red Peppers: Drain and pat them dry before slicing into thin strips.
- Chop the Calabrian Chilies: Adjust the quantity based on your spice preference.
Assemble the Pizza:
- Preheat Oven: Heat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, shape the dough into a 12-inch circle.
- Add Sauce: Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border.
- Layer the Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the sauce.
- Add Toppings: Distribute the roasted red peppers and Calabrian chilies over the cheese.
- Season and Drizzle: Sprinkle oregano and crushed red pepper flakes. Drizzle olive oil over the top.
Bake the Pizza:
- Transfer to Oven: Carefully place the pizza on the preheated stone or baking sheet.
- Bake: Cook for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbling.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, top with fresh basil and grated Parmesan, then slice and serve hot.
How to Serve
Here are 8 serving suggestions for Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza:
- With a Side Salad: Pair with a simple arugula salad for a refreshing contrast.
- As an Appetizer: Serve small slices as a starter for an Italian-themed meal.
- With a Spicy Marinara Dip: Offer a side of marinara for dipping the crust.
- Topped with Fresh Ricotta: Dollop ricotta cheese on top before serving for extra creaminess.
- With Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a hearty meal.
- As a Party Snack: Cut into small squares for a shareable appetizer.
- Drizzled with Hot Honey: A touch of honey balances the heat beautifully.
- With a Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle of balsamic reduction adds a sweet, tangy finish.
Additional Tips
- Preheat Your Pizza Stone: A hot surface helps achieve a crisp, pizzeria-style crust.
- Use High-Quality Cheese: Fresh mozzarella melts better and enhances flavor.
- Drain Roasted Peppers Well: Excess moisture can make the pizza soggy.
- Stretch the Dough Evenly: This ensures a consistent texture and prevents thin spots.
- Add Fresh Basil After Baking: This keeps the basil vibrant and flavorful.
Recipe Variations
- Meat Lovers’ Version: Add spicy Italian sausage or pepperoni.
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cheese and a cauliflower crust.
- White Pizza: Swap tomato sauce for a garlic-olive oil base.
- Extra Spicy: Increase the Calabrian chilies and add spicy salami.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pizza dough.
- Sweet and Spicy: Drizzle hot honey over the pizza for a unique twist.
- Four Cheese Version: Add provolone, gouda, or fontina for extra cheesiness.
- Mushroom and Onion: Add sautéed mushrooms and caramelized onions for depth.
Special Equipment
- Pizza Stone or Baking Steel: Helps achieve a crisp crust.
- Rolling Pin: For evenly shaping the dough.
- Pizza Cutter: Ensures clean slices.
- Baking Peel: For easy pizza transfer to the oven.
FAQ Section
- What are Calabrian chilies?
Calabrian chilies are small, spicy red peppers from Italy known for their fruity heat and smoky flavor. They add a bold kick to this pizza without overpowering the other ingredients. - How spicy is this pizza?
The spice level is medium, with a warm, lingering heat. If you prefer it milder, you can reduce the amount of Calabrian chili or use a sweet pepper alternative. - Can I make this pizza less spicy?
Yes! Reduce the Calabrian chilies or replace them with mild roasted red peppers. - What cheese pairs best with this pizza?
Fresh mozzarella, ricotta, or burrata work beautifully to complement the spicy-sweet flavors. Parmesan or pecorino adds a salty depth. - Can I use jarred roasted red peppers?
Absolutely! Jarred roasted red peppers are a great shortcut. Just drain them well and pat dry before adding them to your pizza. - What kind of crust works best?
A thin, crispy crust allows the flavors to shine, but a chewy Neapolitan-style dough also pairs well with the spicy-sweet toppings. - Can I add meat to this pizza?
Yes! Spicy turkey sausage, turkey pepperoni, or prosciutto complement the Calabrian chili’s heat and the sweetness of the roasted red peppers. - How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer for the best texture. - Can I make this pizza without a pizza stone?
Yes! Use a preheated baking sheet or cast-iron skillet to achieve a crispy crust. A pizza steel is another great alternative. - What toppings go well with this pizza?
Try caramelized onions, fresh basil, goat cheese, or a drizzle of hot honey for extra layers of flavor.
Conclusion
Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza is a bold and flavorful twist on classic pizza, combining the smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers with the vibrant heat of Calabrian chilies. The rich tomato base, melty cheese, and perfectly crisp crust create a harmony of textures and flavors, making every bite irresistibly delicious. Spicy, smoky, and slightly sweet, this pizza is a must-try for anyone who loves a little heat with their slice.
Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, this pizza is perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or whenever you’re craving something bold and satisfying. Add your favorite toppings, like fresh basil, burrata, or a drizzle of hot honey, to make it your own.
I can’t wait to see how your Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your delicious creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!