The Perfect Pesto Pepperoni Pizza


Crispy crust, melty cheese, and bold flavors make this pesto pepperoni pizza a must-try.


Published: January 29, 2025 · Modified: January 29, 2025 by Jennifer Ryan


Pepperoni, mozzarella and pesto pizza

A great pizza is all about balance—crispy yet chewy crust, the right amount of sauce, and toppings that complement rather than overwhelm. This pesto pepperoni pizza achieves just that, combining the boldness of pepperoni with the herby richness of pesto, all atop a homemade dough that’s light yet sturdy enough to hold every delicious bite. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality pizza in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal or an impressive weekend treat.

Pepperoni, mozzarella and pesto pizza

Why Pesto and Pepperoni Make the Perfect Pair

While pepperoni is a staple in many pizza recipes, adding pesto brings a whole new dimension of flavor. The garlicky, herby richness of pesto balances the spice and smokiness of pepperoni, creating a well-rounded taste that doesn’t overpower. The oil in the pesto also enhances the texture, helping the toppings meld into a perfect bite every time.

The Best Dough for a Homemade Pizza Base

A great pizza starts with a great dough. This recipe uses strong white bread flour, which creates a chewy yet crisp crust. The yeast activation process ensures a flavorful rise, while an optional second proofing step helps develop the dough’s elasticity. For those in a hurry, a store-bought pizza dough works, but making your own allows for more control over the texture and taste.

Pesto added to pizza toppings

Essential Ingredients for the Ultimate Pesto Pepperoni Pizza

To achieve the perfect flavor and texture, use high-quality ingredients:

  • Flour: Strong white bread flour for optimal elasticity
  • Yeast: Active dry yeast for a light, airy crust
  • Mozzarella: Fresh or shredded for the best melt
  • Pizza Sauce: A tangy tomato base that complements the richness of the toppings
  • Pesto: A classic basil-based sauce for depth of flavor
  • Pepperoni: Spicy, thinly sliced for even cooking

Step-by-Step Guide: Making Your Pizza from Scratch

Pizza dough ball

1. Prepare the Dough

Activate the yeast, mix the ingredients, and knead until smooth.

Multiple pizza dough balls covered and rising

2. Let it Rise

Allow the dough to proof for at least 45 minutes for a lighter crust.

pizza dough on greaseproof paper

3. Shape the Dough

Roll or stretch it to your preferred size.

Mozzarella and pesto on a pizza dough

4. Assemble the Pizza

Spread the sauce, drizzle pesto, add cheese, and arrange the pepperoni slices.

Pepperoni, mozzarella and pesto pizza

5. Bake to Perfection

Use a preheated pizza stone for a crispier crust.

Baking Tips for a Crispy, Flavorful Crust

  • Use a pizza stone: It distributes heat evenly and prevents a soggy crust.
  • Preheat the oven to its highest setting: A high temperature ensures a fast bake, mimicking a professional pizzeria.
  • Avoid overloading toppings: Too many toppings can make the pizza heavy and prevent even cooking.
  • Let the pizza rest before slicing: This allows the cheese to set and prevents a messy cut.
Pepperoni, mozzarella and pesto pizza

Pesto Pepperoni Pizza

Jennifer Ryan
Crafted with 10 carefully chosen ingredients, this pesto pepperoni pizza recipe combines ease and flavor. A crispy base, luscious cheese, and perfectly spiced pepperoni make it a classic everyone will love.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Bread, Main Course
Cuisine American, British
Servings 6
Calories 362 kcal

Ingredients
 
 

Instructions
 

Activate the Yeast:

  • In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine: 180 ml Warm water, 4 grams Active dry yeast, 10 grams Soft brown sugar and optional 0.5 tbsp Italian herbs.
    180 ml Warm water, 10 grams Soft brown sugar, 4 grams Active dry yeast, 0.5 tbsp Italian herbs
    active dry yeast in warm water with Italian herbs in mixer bowl
  • Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, or until frothy and bubbles form.
    Activated dry yeast frothing and bubbling
  • Gently stir in the 10 ml Olive oil.
    10 ml Olive oil
    Pizza yeast starter with added olive oil

Mix the Dough:

  • Add the 235 grams Strong white bread flour and a 1 tsp Fine sea salt.
    235 grams Strong white bread flour, 1 tsp Fine sea salt
    Flour and salt in a mixing bowl
  • Mix with a spatula or the stand mixer on low speed until a sticky dough begins to form.
    Pizza dough in a stand mixer with a dough hook
  • Optional Dough Rise: For a lighter crust, cover the bowl with a warm damp tea towel and let the dough rise in a warm spot for up to 1 hour.

Form the Dough Ball:

  • Gradually add the 100 grams Additional strong white bread flour, a little at a time, until a smooth, slightly moist dough forms.
    100 grams Additional strong white bread flour
  • Knead: Using a stand mixer: Continue kneading with the dough hook until smooth. Or by hand: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead, incorporating additional flour as needed.
    Pizza dough ball

Divide and Store:

  • Remove the dough from the bowl. For thick crusts, divide it evenly into dough balls for 12-inch pizzas if you’ve multiplied the recipe.
    Multiple pizza dough balls covered and rising
  • Optionally for freezing. Place each dough ball in a freezer-safe bag and store in the freezer.
    Pizza dough in a freezer bag for freezing
  • Optional Second Rise: For enhanced texture, place the dough ball on a floured plate, coat lightly with olive oil, and cover with cling film or a tea towel. Let it rise for 45 minutes.
    Pizza dough ball covered and rising

Assemble the Pizza

  • Shape the Dough: Roll or stretch the dough into your desired shape and size, then place it on a sheet of parchment paper or greaseproof paper.
    pizza dough on greaseproof paper
  • Spread your favorite 130 grams Pizza Sauce evenly over the dough.
    130 grams Pizza Sauce
    Pizza sauce spread on a pizza dough base
  • Drizzle a 2 tsp Pesto on top of the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
    2 tsp Pesto
    Pesto added to pizza toppings
  • Layer slices of fresh 210 grams Mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Alternatively, you can use shredded mozzarella if preferred.
    210 grams Mozzarella
    Mozzarella and pesto on a pizza dough
  • Arrange slices of 40 grams Pepperoni over the mozzarella as desired.
    40 grams Pepperoni
    Pepperoni, mozzarella and pesto on a pizza dough ready to be cooked

Bake the Pizza

  • Use a pizza peel to carefully slide the prepared pizza onto the preheated pizza stone.
  • Bake for 11–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crisp on the bottom.
  • Remove the pizza from the oven using the peel and place it on a cutting board. Allow it to cool for 3–6 minutes before slicing and serving.
    Pepperoni, mozzarella and pesto pizza
  • Enjoy your homemade pizza with a perfectly crisp crust and deliciously fresh toppings! 🍕
    Pepperoni, mozzarella and pesto pizza

Notes

When using greaseproof paper for pizza, cut it slightly larger than the dough to simplify transferring. The paper prevents sticking and allows for effortless sliding onto a pizza stone or baking tray. Once transferred, trim any overhanging edges or adjust the dough to match the paper’s size, ensuring no stray bits scorch in the oven's heat.

Nutrition

Calories: 362kcalCarbohydrates: 46gProtein: 17gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 29mgSodium: 874mgPotassium: 193mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 351IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 268mgIron: 1mg
Keyword dough, pepperoni, pesto, pizza, pizza dough
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Pesto pepperoni pizza is more than just a quick weeknight meal—it’s a fusion of bold flavors and satisfying textures that make every bite worth savoring. Whether you’re making the dough from scratch or opting for a store-bought shortcut, the combination of crispy crust, spicy pepperoni, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic pesto ensures this pizza will become a household favorite. Looking for more ways to elevate your homemade pizza? Check out our other go to pizza recipes, spicy jalapeno pizza and classic pepperoni pizza!

Pepperoni and mozzarella pizza