Name: Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza with Hot Honey and Basil Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 ball pizza dough (store-bought or homemade); Flour or cornmeal, for dusting; ½ cup tomato sauce or pizza sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ¼ cup whole milk ricotta cheese, dolloped; 20–25 slices pepperoni; 1–2 tablespoons hot honey (store-bought or homemade); Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional); Red pepper flakes, for extra heat (optional)

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Introduction

Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza combines classic flavors with a creamy twist, making every bite a delight. The rich ricotta cheese balances perfectly with spicy pepperoni and a drizzle of hot honey for a unique flavor experience. This easy-to-follow recipe will help you create a restaurant-quality pizza right at home.

A close-up of a pepperoni pizza sliced into four large pieces, each slice showing golden-brown, slightly crispy edges with melted, gooey cheese stretching between slices. Bright red pepperoni circles are evenly spread on the cheese layer, and fresh green basil leaves are scattered on top, adding a pop of color. The pizza crust looks soft and fluffy with a light golden hue. The pizza rests on a white plate on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 ball pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Flour or cornmeal, for dusting
½ cup tomato sauce or pizza sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup whole milk ricotta cheese, dolloped
20–25 slices pepperoni
1–2 tablespoons hot honey (store-bought or homemade)
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Red pepper flakes, for extra heat (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) or as hot as it will go. Place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to preheat for at least 30 minutes. Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface into a 12-inch round.
Step 2: Spread tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly across the top. Arrange pepperoni slices over the cheese, then dollop ricotta evenly around the pizza in spoonfuls.
Step 3: Transfer the pizza to the preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for 8–12 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and browned.
Step 4: Drizzle hot honey over the pizza right after it comes out of the oven. Add fresh basil and optional red pepper flakes. Slice and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For a crispier crust, sprinkle cornmeal on your baking surface before placing the dough.
Try substituting the hot honey with chili oil for a different kind of spice.
Add sliced mushrooms or olives for extra toppings that complement the pepperoni.
If you prefer a milder taste, omit the red pepper flakes and use mild honey instead of hot honey.

Storage

Store leftover pizza in an airtight container or wrap tightly with foil in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot oven or skillet to keep the crust crisp and the cheese melted.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a pizza cut into slices, showing a thin golden-brown crust with melted cheese spread evenly on top. The cheese layer has a slightly bubbly texture with brown spots. There are scattered round slices of pepperoni in a rich red color, and fresh green basil leaves placed on top, adding a pop of color. The pizza rests on a white round plate, positioned on a white marbled surface. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a regular baking sheet instead of a pizza stone?

Yes, a baking sheet works well. Preheat it in the oven to help achieve a crispy crust, just like a pizza stone.

What if I don’t have hot honey?

You can make your own by mixing honey with a little chili flakes or hot sauce, or simply use regular honey for a sweet finish without heat.