Hawaiian Pizza Recipe

Hawaiian pizza is a delectable combination of flavors that brings the taste of the tropics right to your dinner table. With its delicious pairing of sweet pineapple, savory bacon, and rich mozzarella cheese, this dish has become a beloved option for pizza lovers around the world.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Hawaiian pizza at home not only allows you to customize the toppings to your liking, but it also lets you enjoy the freshness of the ingredients used. This recipe is particularly special because it combines sweet and savory elements that are sure to delight your taste buds. Plus, preparing it from scratch can be a fun family activity or a great way to impress your friends at a casual gathering. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a standout dish, whether you’re a pizza enthusiast or simply looking for something delicious to whip up.

How to Make Hawaiian Pizza

---

Ingredients

• 4 slices thick-cut bacon
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/4 tsp chile flakes
• 3 1/2-inch thick slices fresh pineapple, cored and cut into half-moons
• 1/2 recipe artisan pizza dough (one 15 oz dough ball)
• 1/3 cup pizza sauce
• 4 oz shredded low-moisture mozzarella (whole milk, if possible)
• 2 oz prosciutto, torn into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños

Directions

Place pizza steel or stone in the middle of your oven and preheat to 500°F. Let the stone heat up for a full 45 minutes. Generously flour a pizza peel and set it aside.

Place bacon slices in a large cast iron skillet. Turn on heat to medium and cook, flipping once, until the fat has rendered and the bacon is crispy and browned, about 15 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to cool.

Pour off all but 1 tablespoon of the bacon grease. Add butter, honey, and chile flakes, and stir until melted. Increase heat to medium-high and add pineapple slices. Cook, shaking and swirling the pan, until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes.

Flip pineapple and cook another 5 minutes until tender and caramelized. Transfer to a cutting board to cool slightly. Roughly chop the pineapple and bacon and set aside.

On a floured surface, flatten the middle of the dough ball into a large disk, leaving a thick 1-inch lip. Pick up the disk, and holding the thick edge, use gravity to shape the dough into a 12-inch circle. Lay it on the prepared pizza peel and adjust the shape into a circle. Jiggle the peel to ensure the dough isn’t sticking (add more flour if it is).

Spread the pizza dough with sauce, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Sprinkle the surface with mozzarella. Scatter the caramelized pineapple, bacon, and torn prosciutto over the top.

Slide the pizza onto the steel and bake for 5 minutes. Turn on the broiler and broil for 2-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and the crust is charred in spots.

Let the pizza cool slightly. Top with pickled jalapeños, slice, and serve.

Pro Tips for Success with Hawaiian Pizza

• Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for the best flavor.
• Don’t skip the broiling step; it gives your pizza an irresistible golden crust.
• Experiment with different cheeses, such as a blend of Gouda and mozzarella, for a unique flavor profile.
• Make sure your pizza stone is adequately heated to achieve a crispy crust.
• Feel free to customize the toppings to suit your taste; add more veggies or switch out the bacon for Canadian bacon or turkey bacon for a lighter option.

Flavor Variations for Hawaiian Pizza

• BBQ Hawaiian Pizza: Swap the pizza sauce for a BBQ sauce and add red onions for a smoky flavor.
• Spicy Hawaiian Pizza: Add more sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a kick.
• Vegetarian Hawaiian Pizza: Remove the bacon and replace it with grilled bell peppers and red onions.
• Tropical Hawaiian Pizza: Add other tropical fruits like mango or kiwi for a fresh twist.
• Meaty Hawaiian Pizza: Add cooked Italian sausage or pepperoni along with the bacon for a hearty meal.

Serving Suggestions for Hawaiian Pizza

Hawaiian pizza is delightful on its own, but pairing it with sides can elevate your meal. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, coleslaw for some crunch, or garlic knots for a satisfying touch. You could even serve it with a fruity drink, like a piña colada or a tropical smoothie, to keep with the island theme.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Hawaiian Pizza

If you have leftover Hawaiian pizza, allow it to cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, enjoy the crisp texture by placing it in the oven instead of the microwave. If you’d like to freeze it, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake in the oven until warmed through.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 380
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 800mg

FAQ About Hawaiian Pizza

What is Hawaiian pizza?

Hawaiian pizza is a style of pizza topped with sweet pineapple, savory ham or bacon, cheese (typically mozzarella), and often tomato sauce. Its unique combination of flavors has made it a popular choice across the globe.

Can I make Hawaiian pizza without pork?

Absolutely! If you prefer a pork-free version, you can replace the bacon and prosciutto with smoked turkey, chicken, mushrooms, tofu, or lentils. This will still provide delicious flavors and textures.

Is Hawaiian pizza gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free Hawaiian pizza, you can use a gluten-free pizza crust. Many grocery stores offer ready-made options, or you can make your own using gluten-free flour blends.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

To create a lighter version, use part-skim mozzarella cheese, reduce the amount of bacon, or use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon. Additionally, consider loading up on vegetables like bell peppers and spinach as toppings for added nutrition.

What are some good side dishes to serve with Hawaiian pizza?

Some great options include a fresh garden salad, vegetable sticks with dip, or even homemade garlic bread. These can complement the pizza’s flavors and provide a well-rounded meal.

How do I prevent my pizza crust from getting soggy?

It’s essential to preheat your pizza stone or steel properly and use a thin layer of sauce. Avoid overloading on toppings, which can release moisture and lead to a soggy crust.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian pizza is a delightful combination of flavors that uniquely marries sweet and savory. With its fresh ingredients and customizable toppings, this recipe has the potential to become a family favorite. Whether it’s for a casual dinner night or a special gathering, making Hawaiian pizza at home is a fun and rewarding experience. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a delicious pizza that’s sure to impress everyone at the table!

Print