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There’s a special kind of joy that comes from a homemade pizza fresh out of the oven, and trust me, this Pepperoni and Roasted Jalapeno Pesto Pan Pizza is about to elevate your midweek meals. I discovered this treasure during a lazy Sunday afternoon, rummaging through my pantry for inspiration. One bite of the smoky, spicy jalapeno pesto combined with the richness of mozzarella and savory pepperoni had me hooked.

Perfectly crisp on the outside yet delightfully soft inside, this pizza is the antidote to uninspiring takeout. Whether you’re cooking for family movie night or wanting to impress guests with minimal effort, this recipe comes together swiftly, offering a burst of flavors in every square. And who doesn’t love the ability to customize a pizza just the way you like? Join me as we dive into creating the ultimate comfort food that’s bound to become a staple in your home!

Why will you love Pepperoni and Roasted Jalapeno Pesto Pan Pizza?

Homemade Joy: Nothing beats the satisfaction of pulling a fresh, homemade pizza out of the oven, especially one featuring zesty jalapeno pesto.
Flavor Explosion: The delightful contrast of spicy jalapenos, savory pepperoni, and creamy cheeses creates an unforgettable taste sensation.
Effortless Preparation: This recipe is designed for all skill levels, making it easy for anyone to whip up a delicious meal.
Perfect for Sharing: Cut into squares, it’s a crowd-pleaser for movie nights or casual gatherings, ready to impress friends and family.
Customization Friendly: Tweak the toppings to suit any palate—veggie lovers or meat enthusiasts will both find happiness here!
Speedy Cooking: With a short baking time, you’ll enjoy your meal without the long wait typical of takeout. For more delightful homemade dishes, check out my Easy Pizza Dough recipe!

Pepperoni and Roasted Jalapeno Pesto Pan Pizza Ingredients

For the Pesto

Fresh Italian Flat Leaf Parsley – 1/2 cup adds a fresh flavor to your pesto.
Garlic – 1 clove gives a savory depth to the sauce.
Green Onions – 2, ends and tops trimmed, bring a mild oniony crunch.
Arugula – 1/2 cup adds a peppery bite that complements the other flavors.
Jalapeno Peppers – 3 peppers provide a delightful kick to your pizza topping.
Olive Oil – 1/4 cup helps blend the pesto smoothly; extra can be used for drizzling.
Water – 1 tbsp thins out the pesto for a perfect consistency.
Salt and Pepper – To taste enhances all the flavors in your dish.

For the Pizza Base

Olive Oil – 2-3 tbsp ensures the dough doesn’t stick to the pan and adds flavor.
Pizza Dough – 16 oz is the foundation of our mouthwatering pan pizza.

For the Toppings

Whole-Milk Mozzarella – 2 cups freshly shredded creates that beloved cheesy pull.
Cheddar Cheese – 1/2 cup (4 oz), cut into small cubes, adds an extra layer of flavor.
Tomato Sauce – 1 cup is essential for a rich, tangy base.
Pepperoni – 8 oz, sliced to medium thickness, brings a classic pizza taste.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re on the path to creating your very own Pepperoni and Roasted Jalapeno Pesto Pan Pizza! Each element contributes to making this pizza a standout dish that’ll have everyone asking for more.

How to Make Pepperoni and Roasted Jalapeno Pesto Pan Pizza

Drizzle olive oil in the pan. Add the pizza dough, turning it over to coat completely in oil. Gently stretch the dough towards the corners of the pan, embracing that homemade touch.
Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let it rest for 20 minutes. This allows the dough to relax, making it easier to stretch. Repeat the stretching after resting until it reaches the pan’s corners.
Rest the dough again, covering it for another 30 minutes. The resting time will enhance the dough’s texture, allowing it to rise nicely in the oven.
Preheat your oven to 500°F, placing the rack on the lowest level. The high heat is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy crust on your pizza!
Remove the plastic wrap and gently lift the dough or press any large air bubbles down. This helps ensure a uniformly cooked pizza without any unexpected air pockets.
Top the dough generously with shredded mozzarella, ensuring it spreads all the way to the edges. This guarantees a melty, cheesy experience with every bite.
Spoon the tomato sauce over the cheese in three rows. Next, scatter the pepperoni evenly across the pizza. This careful layering builds anticipation for those delicious flavors.
Bake in the preheated oven for 17-20 minutes. Look for the cheese around the edges to be black and bubbly, while the rest turns golden and browned—pure pizza perfection!
Loosen the edges with a metal spatula to release the pizza from the pan. Carefully lift the pizza out and transfer it onto a cutting board, admiring that crispy base.
Drizzle it all with your roasted jalapeno pesto. Cut into squares, serve, and bask in the smiles that follow, knowing you’ve made something special!

Optional: Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil for an extra layer of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Pepperoni and Roasted Jalapeno Pesto Pan Pizza

Room Temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days, but be sure to let it cool completely first to retain flavor.

Fridge: Keep your pizza wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick meal!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped in foil or freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To maintain that delightful crisp, reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes. Enjoy your delicious Pepperoni and Roasted Jalapeno Pesto Pan Pizza!

Make Ahead Options

These Pepperoni and Roasted Jalapeno Pesto Pan Pizza are perfect for those busy weeknights! You can prepare the jalapeno pesto and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days in advance, allowing those flavors to deepen. Additionally, you can stretch and shape the pizza dough up to 24 hours before baking; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to enjoy your pizza, just preheat the oven, finish topping with cheese and pepperoni, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have a delicious homemade meal ready with little effort, all on your schedule!

Pepperoni and Roasted Jalapeno Pesto Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by personalizing this delectable pizza recipe to suit your taste!

Veggie Lovers: Swap pepperoni for your favorite veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or artichoke hearts for a deliciously colorful pie.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking for an extra layer of heat that will make your taste buds dance.
Cheeseboard Delight: Mix in a variety of cheeses like fontina or gouda for a unique flavor twist; each bite becomes an exciting surprise!
Gluten-Free Crust: Use a gluten-free pizza dough to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor or texture. Just make it a little thicker to maintain its structure!
Barbecue Bliss: Replace tomato sauce with barbecue sauce for a smoky, sweet alternative that pairs perfectly with jalapenos and pepperoni.
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or oregano atop the pizza just before serving to amplify freshness and aroma.
Alfredo Twist: Swap tomato sauce for a creamy alfredo sauce for a comforting, rich experience that’s oh-so-decadent.
Nut-Free Pesto: For a nut-free version, substitute sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds in the pesto for a flavorful twist that’s allergy-friendly!

Remember, this recipe is all about making it your own. Each variation brings its own flair, turning ordinary meals into extraordinary experiences!

What to Serve with Pepperoni and Roasted Jalapeno Pesto Pan Pizza?

A homemade pizza is just the beginning of a delightful meal that invites warmth and sharing around the table.

Garlic Breadsticks: The buttery, garlicky flavors of warm breadsticks perfectly complement the pizza’s spices and add a comforting touch.
Arugula Salad: A fresh arugula salad with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette brightens the meal, offering a crisp contrast to the rich pizza.
Buffalo Wings: These spicy, saucy delights bring an extra layer of excitement to your dinner plate, making it a game-night favorite.
Antipasto Platter: A vibrant mix of cured meats, olives, and cheeses can create a beautifully inviting appetizer that pairs beautifully with your pizza.
Craft Beer: A cold craft beer, particularly an IPA or a pale ale, balances the pizza’s richness while heightening the overall flavor experience.
Chocolate Lava Cake: End the meal on a sweet note with a warm, gooey chocolate lava cake—it’s an indulgent treat that pairs well with the savory pizza.

Tips for the Best Pepperoni and Roasted Jalapeno Pesto Pan Pizza

Dough Stretching: Allowing the dough to rest is key. Don’t rush this step; it helps create a light and airy crust.
Even Toppings: When spreading cheese and sauce, ensure they go all the way to the edges for a balanced flavor in every bite!
Avoid Soggy Crust: Make sure your oven is fully preheated. A hot oven ensures the crust bakes quickly and stays crispy underneath the toppings.
Air Bubbles: Gently press down any large air bubbles before adding the toppings. This will help ensure your Pepperoni and Roasted Jalapeno Pesto Pan Pizza bakes evenly.
Cheese Magic: Using freshly shredded cheeses can make a significant difference compared to pre-shredded. Fresh cheese melts better and enhances flavor.
Customization Fun: Feel free to adjust the amount of jalapenos based on your spice preference. Enjoy experimenting with different toppings!

Pepperoni and Roasted Jalapeno Pesto Pan Pizza Recipe FAQs

What type of jalapeno peppers should I use?
Absolutely! Fresh, firm jalapeno peppers are best for this recipe. Look for peppers that are bright green and smooth in texture, avoiding any with dark spots or wrinkled skin, as these may be overripe or past their prime.

How should I store leftovers?
Very! To keep your Pepperoni and Roasted Jalapeno Pesto Pan Pizza fresh, let it cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Enjoy your leftover pizza within 3 days for optimal taste!

Can I freeze this pizza?
Yes, you can! For best results, wrap slices of pizza in aluminum foil or place them in freezer-safe bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Your pizza will stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What should I do if my pizza dough doesn’t rise?
Don’t worry! If your pizza dough doesn’t seem to rise properly, check that your yeast is active. If you are using dry yeast, mix it with warm water (around 110°F) and let it sit until bubbly, about 5 to 10 minutes, before incorporating it into the dough. Additionally, ensure your dough is in a warm place during its resting period; this helps it to rise nicely.

Can pets eat jalapenos or pizza with jalapenos?
No, it’s best to avoid giving jalapenos or spicy food to pets. Jalapenos can upset their stomachs and cause discomfort. If you want to share the pizza experience with your furry friends, consider offering them a slice without the spicy toppings or cheese!