Hot Honey Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The magic of this pizza lies in its contrast of flavors: salty pepperoni, rich mozzarella, and creamy ricotta combined with the fresh, aromatic basil. The heat from the hot honey adds a delightful sweetness, making every bite incredibly addictive. Whether you’re a fan of spicy, cheesy, or flavorful pizzas, this one hits all the right notes.

Ingredients

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

• Pizza dough
• ¾ cup marinara sauce
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese (or a mix with provolone cheese)
• 15 pepperoni slices
• ⅓ cup ricotta cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (plus more for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons hot honey

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 550°F or as high as your oven allows.
2. Roll the pizza dough out into a 14-inch circle with a 1-inch crust.
3. Spread the marinara sauce onto the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and pepperoni slices evenly over the sauce.
5. In a small bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with fresh basil. Dollop the ricotta mixture in spoonfuls across the pizza.
6. Bake the pizza for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is lightly browned and the crust is golden. If using a pizza stone, remove the parchment paper halfway through cooking.
7. Garnish with fresh basil and drizzle the hot honey over the pizza just before serving.

Servings and timing

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

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. You can also freeze it for up to a month. To reheat, use a toaster oven at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes until the crust is crispy again, or heat it in a dry skillet over medium heat, covering it to melt the cheese.

FAQs

Can I make this pizza without pepperoni?

Yes, you can substitute pepperoni with sausage, bacon, prosciutto, salami, or even go for a vegetarian version with just the cheese and ricotta.

What type of cheese can I use besides mozzarella?

You can mix mozzarella with provolone cheese for extra flavor. Parmesan also works well for an additional sharp taste.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, store-bought dough is a convenient option if you’re short on time. You can also use homemade dough for a more personalized touch.

What’s the best way to stretch pizza dough?

Start by pressing the dough into a disk with your hands, then stretch it gently by holding the edges and rotating. Be sure to keep the crust a little thicker for a nice, airy bite.

How do I make the hot honey?

You can make homemade hot honey by heating honey with a pinch of red pepper flakes. Adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer flakes based on your taste.

Can I add more toppings to this pizza?

Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.

How can I make this pizza spicier?

To add more spice, increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the hot honey or add some sliced fresh chilies on top before baking.

Can I make this pizza ahead of time?

You can prepare the pizza dough and toppings ahead of time, then assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.

How long should I bake the pizza?

Bake the pizza for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and the crust is crispy. If you’re using a pizza steel, you may need to rotate the pizza halfway through.

What’s the best type of sauce to use?

While marinara sauce is commonly used, you can also use pizza sauce or even a thicker version of tomato sauce for a more concentrated flavor.

Conclusion

The Hot Honey Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza is a game-changer. The balance of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors, combined with a perfectly crisp crust and creamy ricotta, makes it an unforgettable dish. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pizza will surely be a hit.