Description
Transform an ordinary pizza night into something extraordinary with this Heart-Shaped Pizza Recipe! Perfect for romantic dinners, family fun, or festive celebrations, this easy-to-make pizza is as delicious as it is adorable. With its golden crust, bubbly cheese, and heart-shaped pepperoni, it’s a meal that shows love in every bite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Pizza dough (homemade or store-bought): 1 ball (about 13.8 ounces)
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Pizza sauce: ¼ cup (or more to taste)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1½ cups
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 3 tablespoons
- Fresh parsley or basil (optional): 2 tablespoons
Toppings
- Pepperoni slices (cut into hearts): 30 pieces
- Optional toppings: To taste (e.g., mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions)
Instructions
Prepare the Pepperoni
- Fold each pepperoni slice in half and use kitchen shears to cut out heart shapes.
- Place the heart-shaped pepperoni on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Microwave for 15 seconds and dab off any excess grease. Set aside.
2. Shape the Dough
- Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the pizza dough into a heart shape, about 16 inches tall.
- Fold and pinch the edges to create a crust.
- Transfer the shaped dough to a parchment-lined pizza pan or baking sheet.
3. Blind Bake the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Brush the dough with olive oil and poke holes in it using a fork to prevent bubbling.
- Bake for 6 minutes, then remove from the oven.
4. Add the Toppings
- Spread pizza sauce evenly over the partially baked crust, leaving a small border.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese, followed by grated Parmesan cheese.
- Arrange the heart-shaped pepperoni and any additional toppings.
5. Bake the Pizza
- Return the pizza to the oven and bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- For a crispy finish, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, slice, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Cutting Heart Shapes: Use a cookie cutter for precision or freehand with scissors for a rustic charm.
- Cheese Options: Swap mozzarella for provolone or cheddar for a unique twist.
- Crust Alternatives: Use store-bought flatbread or naan for a quick shortcut.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American