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Roasted Pepper Pesto Pizza

Roasted Pepper Pesto Pizza

This Roasted Pepper Pesto Pizza features a delicious combination of smoky roasted red peppers, aromatic basil pesto, and melted mozzarella cheese, all on a crispy pizza crust. It's a quick and easy meal perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8 slices servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 285

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
  • 3 medium red bell peppers
  • ½ cup basil pesto
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Place a pizza stone inside if you have one, allowing it to heat thoroughly for 30 minutes. Alternatively, prepare a large baking sheet.
  2. Roast the peppers by placing them directly over a gas flame, under the broiler, or in a very hot oven. Turn them occasionally until the skin blackens and blisters completely. This takes approximately 10-15 minutes.
  3. Transfer the charred peppers to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let them steam for 10 minutes, which loosens the skin beautifully. Then peel away the blackened skin, remove seeds, and slice the peppers into strips.
  4. Roll out your pizza dough on a lightly floured surface. Aim for about ¼-inch thickness, creating your desired shape. Transfer carefully to a pizza peel or prepared baking sheet.
  5. Spread the pesto evenly across the dough, leaving a half-inch border for the crust. Use the back of a spoon for even distribution.
  6. Tear the mozzarella into small pieces and distribute across the pesto layer. Sprinkle the minced garlic over everything, then arrange your roasted pepper strips artfully on top.
  7. Drizzle with olive oil and add the grated Parmesan. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  8. Bake your Roasted Pepper Pesto Pizza for 12-15 minutes until the crust turns golden and the cheese bubbles enthusiastically. Watch carefully during the final minutes to prevent burning.
  9. Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes. Scatter fresh basil leaves across the top before slicing.

Notes

This pizza can be customized with different toppings and dietary preferences. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or skillet for best results.