Hot Honey Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The magic in this recipe lies in the combination of bold flavors and textures. The spicy pepperoni, creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, and the addition of hot honey create a savory yet slightly sweet profile that's irresistible. With a crispy crust and the freshness from basil, this pizza is a satisfying, well-balanced meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• ¾ cup marinara sauce (reduced for a thicker consistency)
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese (or a blend of mozzarella and provolone)
• 15 slices of pepperoni
• ⅓ cup ricotta cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons hot honey

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 550°F (or the highest temperature your oven can reach).
2. Stretch the pizza dough into a 14-inch circle, leaving about 1 inch for the crust.
3. Spread marinara sauce over the dough, leaving the crust edges.
4. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce, followed by the pepperoni slices.
5. Mix the ricotta cheese with fresh basil and dollop it onto the pizza.
6. Bake for 10 minutes or until the cheese is golden and the crust is crisp.
7. Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh basil and drizzle with hot honey.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Use a different cheese blend, like mozzarella and provolone, or even add some Parmesan for extra flavor.
• If you want a spicier kick, add extra red pepper flakes along with the hot honey.
• For a vegetarian version, leave out the pepperoni and add roasted vegetables like mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, use a toaster oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes or reheat on a dry skillet with a cover for 5-7 minutes until the cheese melts and the crust crisps up.

FAQs

How can I make homemade pizza dough?

Making homemade pizza dough is easy! You’ll need flour, yeast, water, salt, and olive oil. There are plenty of recipes online that can guide you step-by-step.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! You can use a blend of mozzarella and provolone, or even add Parmesan for extra flavor.

Can I freeze this pizza for later?

Yes, you can freeze the pizza after it’s baked. Allow it to cool, then wrap it in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Reheat it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.

What can I use instead of hot honey?

If you don’t have hot honey, you can mix regular honey with red pepper flakes to get a similar flavor profile.

How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Make sure your marinara sauce is thickened by reducing it on the stove. Additionally, baking the pizza on a pizza stone or steel will help create a crispy bottom.

Can I use a pre-cooked pizza crust?

Yes, using a pre-cooked crust can save time, but it might not achieve the same crispy texture as fresh dough.

What should I do if I don’t have a pizza stone or steel?

If you don’t have a pizza stone or steel, you can bake the pizza on a regular baking sheet. Make sure to dust it with flour or cornmeal to prevent sticking.

How spicy is this pizza?

The level of spiciness depends on the hot honey. If you want a milder flavor, reduce the amount of hot honey or use less spicy honey varieties.

Can I add more toppings to this pizza?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any toppings like olives, bell peppers, or mushrooms to suit your taste.

How do I make the ricotta mixture smoother?

To make the ricotta smoother, you can blend it with a small amount of cream or milk to reach your desired consistency.

Conclusion

Hot Honey Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza is the perfect fusion of savory, spicy, and sweet flavors. It’s a fun twist on traditional pizza, combining rich cheeses, crispy pepperoni, and a tangy drizzle of hot honey. With a bit of fresh basil and a crispy crust, this pizza will quickly become a favorite for pizza night. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, it’s sure to impress!