Barbecue Bacon Pizza [35 Minutes] (2024)

Barbecue Bacon Pizza merges the smoky flavors of barbecue with the rich, comforting taste of bacon on a pizza canvas, creating a dish that’s both uniquely American and universally appealing.

This recipe reimagines the traditional pizza with a bold twist, incorporating the sweet and tangy taste of barbecue sauce, the savory bite of bacon, and the gooeyness of melted cheese.

Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner, a game night, or simply indulging in a solo culinary adventure, this pizza promises to deliver an unforgettable taste experience.

Why You’ll Love Barbecue Bacon Pizza

You’ll love Barbecue Bacon Pizza for its perfect blend of flavors and textures. The smoky barbecue sauce complements the crispy, savory bacon, while the melted cheese adds a creamy richness.

Fresh toppings like onions and bell peppers add a crunchy, refreshing contrast.

This pizza is easy to make and offers a delicious departure from the usual tomato-based pizzas, making it a favorite for both kids and adults.

Expert Tips and Tricks

• Pre-cook bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy before adding it to the pizza to avoid excess grease and ensure a perfect texture.
• Use quality barbecue sauce: A good-quality barbecue sauce makes a big difference in flavor. Choose one with a balance of sweetness and smokiness.
• Par-bake the crust: Par-bake the pizza crust for a few minutes before adding the toppings to ensure it stays crispy.
• Even topping distribution: Spread toppings evenly to ensure each bite has a balance of flavors.
• Watch the oven: Keep an eye on the pizza while it bakes to prevent the crust from burning and ensure the cheese melts perfectly.

Recipe Variations & Possible Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pizza crust to accommodate dietary needs.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute regular cheese with dairy-free cheese alternatives.
• Vegetarian: Replace bacon with smoked tempeh or a plant-based bacon substitute.
• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Different Cheeses: Use a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and gouda for a richer flavor.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve Barbecue Bacon Pizza hot from the oven, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness.

Pair it with a side salad, such as a crisp coleslaw or mixed greens, to balance the rich flavors of the pizza.

For beverages, a cold beer, a glass of chilled white wine, or a refreshing iced tea makes perfect accompaniments.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze individual slices on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat slices in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted. Alternatively, use an air fryer for a quick and even reheat.

Recipe FAQs

• Can I use pre-made pizza dough? Yes, pre-made pizza dough works well and saves time.
• What type of bacon is best? Thick-cut bacon provides a nice texture and flavor but any type of bacon can be used.
• Can I make this pizza on a grill? Yes, grilling adds an extra smoky flavor. Pre-cook the bacon and use a pizza stone for best results.
• How do I prevent the pizza from being too greasy? Ensure the bacon is well-cooked and drained of excess fat before adding it to the pizza.
• Can I add other toppings? Absolutely, feel free to add toppings like red onions, bell peppers, or pineapple for additional flavors.

Detailed Ingredient Breakdown

• Pizza Dough: The base of the pizza, providing a crispy and chewy texture.
• Barbecue Sauce: Acts as the sauce, adding a smoky and tangy flavor.
• Bacon: Adds a savory, crispy element to the pizza.
• Cheese: Provides creamy richness and helps bind the toppings together.
• Onions and Bell Peppers: Add a crunchy, fresh contrast to the rich flavors.
• Cilantro or Parsley: Fresh herbs that add a burst of flavor and color.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Why is my dough dry? Ensure you’re using the right amount of water in the dough recipe. If it’s still dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it reaches the right consistency.
• Why is my pizza soggy? Ensure you par-bake the crust and pre-cook the bacon to prevent excess moisture. Also, avoid overloading the pizza with too many wet ingredients.
• Why is my pizza burning? Monitor the baking time and temperature closely. Using a pizza stone can help distribute heat more evenly.
• Why is my cheese not melting? Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded, as the latter often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.
• Why are my toppings uneven? Spread toppings evenly across the pizza to ensure each bite has a balanced flavor and texture.

Flavor Science

The combination of smoky barbecue sauce and savory bacon works wonderfully because of the complementary flavors.

Barbecue sauce provides a sweet and tangy base that contrasts nicely with the salty, umami-rich bacon.

The cheese adds a creamy texture that binds the toppings together and balances the overall flavor profile.

Fresh toppings like onions and bell peppers contribute a crunch and subtle sweetness, enhancing the pizza’s complexity.

The final sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a bright, aromatic finish, making each bite a perfect blend of flavors.

Barbecue Bacon Pizza

Yield: 8 slices

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Discover the perfect blend of smoky and savory with our Barbecue Bacon Pizza recipe. Featuring crispy bacon, tangy barbecue sauce, and melted cheese on a golden crust, this easy-to-make pizza is a delicious twist on a classic favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (preferably smoky)
• 8 ounces bacon, cooked and chopped
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat.
2. Prepare Dough: Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness, then transfer to a piece of parchment paper.
3. Pre-bake Crust: Pre-bake the crust for 5-7 minutes until it’s slightly golden.
4. Add Toppings: Spread the barbecue sauce evenly over the pre-baked crust, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the chopped bacon, then the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, and finally, the red onion slices.
5. Bake: Transfer the pizza (with the parchment paper) to the hot pizza stone or a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, then sprinkle with fresh cilantro or parsley before slicing and serving.

Notes

For an extra crispy crust, brush the edges with a little olive oil before baking.

Allow the pizza to rest for a few minutes after baking for easier slicing.

Experiment with different barbecue sauces to find your perfect match.

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 8Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving:Calories: 462Total Fat: 22gSaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 56mgSodium: 1283mgCarbohydrates: 43gFiber: 1gSugar: 14gProtein: 22g