When I first tried Calabrian chili roasted red pepper pizza, I knew it was a recipe worth sharing. It’s the perfect mix of smoky, sweet, and just the right amount of spicy. The bold kick of the Calabrian chili paste pairs so beautifully with the roasted red peppers, creating a flavor that’s both comforting and adventurous.

I promise, making this pizza at home feels like transporting yourself to a cozy pizzeria in Italy, but without the need to leave your kitchen. And don’t worry if you’re not a professional chef! This recipe is so approachable that anyone can make it. After trying this, I’m confident you’ll add it to your “must-repeat” list for pizza nights.

Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Before we jump into the specifics, there’s so much to rave about with this pizza! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, here’s why you’ll adore this dish.

1. Easy to Prepare

This recipe keeps things stress-free! With a combination of store-bought or homemade pizza dough and pre-made chili paste, most of the work is already done for you. You don’t need fancy techniques or skills; it’s straightforward and fun to make, even on a busy weeknight.

2. Bold and Unique Flavors

The fusion of sweet roasted red peppers with fiery Calabrian chili paste delivers a flavor profile that’s anything but ordinary. It’s a step up from the usual pizza toppings, making it ideal for impressing guests or treating yourself.

3. Versatile for Different Diets

Want to make it vegetarian? Easy! Prefer a dairy-free version? That works too. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. You can customize it to fit different dietary needs without compromising taste.

4. Perfect for Spice Lovers

If you enjoy a little heat on your plate, this recipe is calling your name. Calabrian chili paste brings the fire, but you can control how much or how little you use to suit your spice tolerance.

5. Great for Sharing

It’s an ideal choice for dinner with family or hosting friends. The vibrant colors make it visually appealing, while the flavors ensure everyone will be reaching for another slice.

Cooking Time

This pizza comes together surprisingly quickly! Here’s what to expect regarding time commitment:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes

Ingredients

You’ll need these key ingredients to create the perfect Calabrian chili roasted red pepper pizza:

Pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Roasted red bell peppers
Calabrian chili paste
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Crumbled feta cheese
Fresh basil leaves
Olive oil
Salt
Black pepper

Variations

If you want to switch things up or accommodate specific dietary requirements, here are some fun variations to try:

Make It Dairy-Free: Swap the mozzarella and feta with vegan cheese options or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Amp Up the Sweetness: Add caramelized onions or a drizzle of honey for a sweet contrast to the spice.
Add Protein: Include cooked sausage, grilled chicken, or even spicy pepperoni for a meat-lovers version.
Boost Veggie Content: Add toppings like mushrooms, olives, or spinach to make it even more nutritious.

Equipment You’ll Need

To make this recipe effortless, here’s the equipment you should have on hand:

Pizza stone or baking sheet (for even cooking and a crisp crust)
Rolling pin (to shape the dough)
Pizza cutter (for slicing those perfect wedges)
Pastry brush (for drizzling oil evenly)

How to Make Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza?

Making this pizza is not only simple but also an enjoyable process. Follow these step-by-step instructions, and you’ll have a masterpiece on your plate in no time!

Step 1. Preheat the Oven 🔥

Start by preheating your oven to the highest temperature it can reach, around 500°F (260°C). If using a pizza stone, pop that in the oven as it heats up for an extra crispy crust.

Step 2. Roll Out the Dough 🍞

Lightly flour your surface and roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness. Want a thin, crispy crust? Roll it extra thin. Prefer it thick and fluffy? Keep it slightly thicker. Move the dough onto a floured pizza peel or baking sheet.

Step 3. Spread the Chili Paste 🌶

Now comes the magic! Spread the Calabrian chili paste evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Adjust the amount of chili paste depending on how spicy you’d like it.

Step 4. Add the Roasted Red Peppers 🌟

Scatter thinly sliced roasted red bell peppers all over the pizza. They’ll add a smoky-sweet depth to every bite.

Step 5. Top with Cheeses 🧀

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and crumbled feta over the pizza. The combination of gooey, melted mozzarella with tangy feta is pure bliss.

Step 6. Season and Drizzle 🌿

Add a pinch of salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors. Then, drizzle olive oil over everything to bring all the elements together.

Step 7. Bake Until Golden ✨

Carefully slide the pizza onto the hot stone or baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the crust golden and the cheese bubbly with slightly browned edges.

Step 8. Garnish with Basil 🌱

Once out of the oven, top the pizza with torn fresh basil leaves. The heat from the pizza releases their aroma, making the dish even more irresistible.

Step 9. Slice and Serve 🍴

Cut the pizza into slices, serve, and bask in the compliments!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Cold Dough: If homemade, refrigerate your dough for an hour before rolling to make it easier to handle.
Don’t Skimp on the Cornmeal: Dust your baking sheet or pizza peel with cornmeal to prevent sticking and add texture.
Adjust Spice Levels: Start with less chili paste if unsure about the spice, then add more after baking.

How to Serve Calabrian Chili Roasted Red Pepper Pizza?

Presentation matters when serving pizza! Slice it neatly and plate it with a sprinkle of extra fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil. Serve with a side salad or a glass of crisp white wine to balance the spice. For a party, cut the pizza into smaller bites for an appetizer-style experience.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the approximate nutritional values per pizza slice:

Calories: 320
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 15g

Make Ahead and Storage

Want to prepare this pizza in advance or store leftovers? Here’s how to do it effectively:

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best results.
Freeze: If making ahead, prepare the pizza up to the baking step, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze. When ready to eat, bake directly from frozen.
Freshness Tip: Use fresh basil only when serving; it doesn’t freeze or reheat well.

This Calabrian chili roasted red pepper pizza isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. With its combination of fiery, sweet, and smoky elements, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking!