Chef Mitchell preparing Pepperoni Basil Ricotta Pizza
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this Pepperoni Basil Ricotta Pizza recipe during my culinary school days when experimenting with different cheese combinations. The balance of flavors and textures captivated my taste buds, and I knew I had to perfect it. Over the years, I've tweaked the recipe to make it more accessible for home cooks while ensuring that every bite remains as delicious as the original."

I have a passion for Italian cuisine, specializing in pizza and pasta dishes. My experience in various Italian restaurants has allowed me to perfect my skills and share authentic recipes that anyone can recreate at home. I strive to inspire others to enjoy the art of cooking with simple yet flavorful dishes.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Pepperoni Basil Ricotta Pizza served on a plate

Why This Pepperoni Basil Ricotta Pizza Recipe Works

This recipe stands out for its combination of rich ricotta cheese and savory pepperoni, which creates a delightful contrast in flavors. The addition of fresh basil elevates the pizza, adding a touch of freshness that balances the richness. The crust is perfectly crispy when baked at a high temperature, ensuring that every bite is satisfying.

Using high-quality ingredients is key to achieving the best results. Allowing the ricotta to blend with the mozzarella creates a creamy texture that melts beautifully. Additionally, the use of fresh basil as a topping adds not only flavor but also a pop of color, making the pizza visually appealing.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best crust, allow your pizza dough to rest at room temperature before rolling it out. This helps the gluten relax, making it easier to shape and resulting in a tender, crisp crust when baked. Be sure to preheat your oven thoroughly to achieve that perfect bake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the pizza ahead of time by assembling it and storing it in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. However, for the best texture and flavor, it's recommended to bake it fresh.

If you don't have ricotta cheese, you can use cottage cheese or mascarpone as a substitute. Both will offer a creamy texture, although mascarpone will add a richer flavor. You can also blend cottage cheese to achieve a smoother consistency if preferred.

The pizza is done when the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted. You can also check the bottom of the crust; it should be firm and crisp to the touch. If you're unsure, you can always use a digital thermometer, aiming for an internal temperature of about 200°F (93°C).

Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked pizza. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the freezer and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Pair the pizza with a simple side salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar for a refreshing contrast. You can also serve garlic bread or a light soup to complement the meal. A glass of red wine, such as Chianti, also makes for a perfect pairing.

Leftover pizza can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to wrap it tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Reheat in the oven or microwave when you're ready to enjoy it again.

Yes, you can prepare the dough and sauce in advance. Store the dough in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or in the freezer for longer storage. Prepare the sauce and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. Assemble the pizza right before baking for the best texture.

The best way to reheat pizza is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the pizza on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through. This helps restore the crust's crispiness. You can also use an air fryer for quick reheating.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The pizza may be dry due to overcooking or insufficient sauce.

Solution: To avoid dryness, keep an eye on cooking time and ensure you're spreading enough sauce on the dough before adding toppings. Consider adding a little extra cheese to retain moisture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: The crust may not be crispy if the oven isn't hot enough or if it's not baked long enough.

Solution: Make sure your oven is preheated to the right temperature and consider using a pizza stone for better heat retention. Baking the pizza on the lowest rack can also help achieve a crispier crust.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: If the pizza is overcooked, the crust will be too hard and toppings may burn.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, keep track of baking time and check the pizza a few minutes before the end time. If using a dark pizza pan, reduce the baking time slightly.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: An undercooked center can occur if the pizza is too thick or the oven temperature is too low.

Recovery: To recover from an undercooked center, return the pizza to the oven and bake for an additional few minutes. Consider using a higher oven rack to ensure more direct heat reaches the center.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior can happen if the oven temperature is too high or if baked too long.

Prevention: To avoid burning the exterior, lower the oven temperature slightly and keep a close eye on the pizza as it bakes. Using parchment paper can also prevent sticking and burning.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the pizza is too sweet, consider reducing the amount of sauce or using a less sweet variety.

Too Salty: If it's too salty, you can balance it with a drizzle of honey or adding more toppings like vegetables.

Bland: To fix bland flavors, add more herbs or spices to the sauce and consider using freshly grated cheese for enhanced flavor.

Fresh ingredients for Pepperoni Basil Ricotta Pizza

Essential Ingredients for Pepperoni Basil Ricotta Pizza

The key ingredients for this pizza include ricotta cheese for creaminess, mozzarella for melty goodness, and pepperoni for a savory punch. Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully. Using a quality pizza dough is essential for a great crust.

Select high-quality ingredients whenever possible, especially cheeses and fresh herbs. Fresh mozzarella will melt better than pre-shredded varieties, and fresh basil will provide a vibrant flavor. Opt for a good brand of pepperoni for the best taste.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Ricotta Cheese: Choose whole milk ricotta for the best flavor and creaminess. If you want a smoother texture, you can blend the ricotta slightly before using it on the pizza.
  • Pepperoni: Look for high-quality pepperoni made from pork and beef with no fillers. This will enhance the flavor of your pizza and give it that classic taste.
  • Basil: Fresh basil is key to this recipe. Use it straight from the garden if possible, and add it after baking to maintain its vibrant flavor and aroma.
Cooking process for Pepperoni Basil Ricotta Pizza

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Making Pepperoni Basil Ricotta Pizza is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Start with preparing your dough, then layering your sauce, cheeses, and toppings. The assembly is simple and quick, making it an ideal recipe for weeknight dinners.

Achieving perfect results depends on using the right technique, such as preheating your oven thoroughly and paying attention to baking time. Letting the pizza cool slightly before slicing allows the cheese to set a bit, making it easier to cut and serve.

Key Technique for Perfect Pepperoni Basil Ricotta Pizza

The most important technique for making this pizza is the high-temperature bake. Preheating your oven to at least 475°F allows the crust to develop a crispy texture while the cheese melts beautifully. Using a pizza stone can enhance this effect significantly.

Pepperoni Basil Ricotta Pizza

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup marinara sauce
    Use your favorite brand
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    Extra virgin recommended
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
    For added flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
    Enhances the sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
    To taste

For the Sauce

  • 1 lb pizza dough
    Store-bought or homemade
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
    Full-fat recommended
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
    For melting
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    For extra flavor
  • 1 cup pepperoni slices
    Classic topping
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
    To finish the pizza

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven

    Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) to ensure a crispy crust.

  2. Prepare Pizza Dough

    On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness.

  3. Add Marinara Sauce

    Spread a layer of marinara sauce evenly over the rolled-out dough.

  4. Spread Ricotta and Mozzarella

    Dollop ricotta cheese over the sauce, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly.

  5. Layer Pepperoni

    Evenly distribute the pepperoni slices on top of the cheese.

  6. Season

    Sprinkle garlic powder, oregano, black pepper, and salt over the toppings.

  7. Bake the Pizza

    Transfer the pizza to a baking sheet dusted with cornmeal and bake for 20-25 minutes.

  8. Add Fresh Basil

    Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and sprinkle fresh basil on top.

  9. Drizzle Balsamic Glaze

    Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.

  10. Serve

    Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store leftover Pepperoni Basil Ricotta Pizza, place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in foil. It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat slices in the oven for the best texture, or you can use the microwave for a quicker option.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Pepperoni Basil Ricotta Pizza with a side of mixed greens tossed in a light vinaigrette. You can also pair it with garlic knots or a refreshing Italian salad for a complete meal. A glass of chilled white wine or a light red wine complements the flavors beautifully.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this pizza with your favorite toppings! Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as goat cheese or feta, for a unique twist on this classic recipe.