Crispy crust, creamy cheese, and a spicy kick – this Jalapeño Popper Pizza delivers an explosion of flavor in every bite. It’s a delicious combination of textures and tastes that elevates the humble pizza to something truly special. The cream cheese base perfectly complements the heat of the jalapeños, while the blend of cheeses creates a gooey, satisfying center.
This recipe works so well because it takes all the best elements of a classic jalapeño popper – the creamy interior, the sharp cheddar, and the salty turkey bacon – and combines them on a crispy, shareable pizza base. The garlic powder and olive oil add depth of flavor, and the fresh cilantro brightens everything up. This Jalapeño Popper Pizza is perfect for game nights, parties, or even a fun weeknight dinner.
Why you’ll love this Jalapeño Popper Pizza Perfection
- It’s a flavor bomb! The combination of creamy cheese, spicy jalapeños, and savory turkey turkey bacon is irresistible.
- This jalapeño popper pizza is surprisingly easy to make, using either store-bought or homemade dough.
- It’s customizable to your spice preference – use more or fewer jalapeños, or remove the seeds for a milder flavor.
- Perfect for sharing with friends and family, making it ideal for parties and gatherings.
- It’s a fun and exciting twist on traditional pizza, offering a unique and satisfying culinary experience.
- Leftovers (if there are any!) are just as delicious the next day.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- 1 pound pizza dough, store-bought or homemade
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 jalapeños, seeded and finely diced
- 1/4 cup cooked, crumbled turkey turkey bacon
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Ranch dressing for dipping
Jalapeño popper pizza makes every moment feel comforting. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the turkey turkey bacon. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
How to make Jalapeño Popper Pizza Perfection
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dough
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Lightly grease a pizza pan or baking sheet.
Step 2: Shape the Dough
Stretch or roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness and shape. Place it on the prepared pan.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Mixture
In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, diced jalapeños, and cooked turkey turkey bacon. Mix well.
Step 4: Assemble the Pizza
Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
Step 5: Season and Bake
Drizzle the olive oil over the pizza and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving. Serve with ranch dressing for dipping, if desired.
Chef’s Tip: For a crispier crust, place the pizza on a preheated pizza stone during baking.
Tips for Success
- Soften the cream cheese completely for a smooth and easy-to-spread mixture.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeños to your spice preference. Remember to remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pizza with toppings, as this can prevent the crust from getting crispy.
- Keep a close eye on the pizza while it’s baking to prevent the crust from burning.
Serving Suggestions
This Jalapeño Popper Pizza is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad or some crispy potato wedges. For a lighter meal, you could also serve it alongside cottage cheese wraps.
For drinks, try pairing it with a refreshing lemonade or a crisp sparkling water. If you’re looking for something a little stronger, a light vegetable broth or a spicy margarita would also be a great choice. For another recipe with a bit of spice, see what Cook Reel has to offer.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pizza can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place a slice or two in the oven or microwave until heated through. For a crispier crust, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this pizza?
Yes, you can freeze this pizza, either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely before wrapping. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Is this pizza very spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted to your preference. Removing the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños will significantly reduce the heat. You can also use fewer jalapeños or substitute with a milder pepper.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack for extra spice or provolone for a milder flavor. Just be sure to use a cheese that melts well.
This Jalapeño Popper Pizza is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a unique and exciting twist on a classic favorite. With its creamy, spicy, and cheesy goodness, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience pizza perfection! Don’t forget to share your creations and let us know what you think in the comments below. If you are in the mood for pizza, but want something a bit different, check out this turkey turkey pepperoni pizza chips recipe!
Jalapeño Popper Pizza Perfection
This Jalapeño Popper Pizza takes everything you love about jalapeño poppers – the creamy cheese, the spicy peppers, the crispy topping – and puts it on a pizza! It’s an explosion of flavor and textures, from the crispy pizza crust to the gooey, cheesy center with a satisfying kick of spice. This pizza is perfect for parties, game nights, or any occasion that calls for a cheesy, delicious, and slightly spicy treat. Get ready for a pizza experience like no other, where every bite is a guaranteed flavor bomb. With a few simple steps, you can create a pizza that’s both comforting and exciting, delivering the classic jalapeño popper taste in a fun and shareable format. This recipe is easily customizable to your spice preference, making it a crowd-pleasing hit for everyone.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound pizza dough, store-bought or homemade
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 jalapeños, seeded and finely diced
- 1/4 cup cooked, crumbled turkey bacon
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Ranch dressing for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Lightly grease a pizza pan or baking sheet.
- Stretch or roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness and shape. Place it on the prepared pan.
- In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, diced jalapeños, and cooked turkey bacon. Mix well.
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the pizza and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving. Serve with ranch dressing for dipping, if desired.
Notes
For a milder flavor, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before dicing. To make ahead, assemble the pizza and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. You can also add other toppings, such as corn, bell peppers, or a drizzle of hot sauce after baking. Store leftover pizza in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg