BBQ Bacon Pizza Recipe: Smoky BBQ and Crispy Bacon

As a pitmaster with a passion for combining smoky flavors with classic techniques, I’m excited to share my BBQ Bacon Pizza recipe. This dish brings together the perfect balance of crispy bacon, tangy BBQ sauce, and melted cheese on a perfectly cooked crust.

With a cooking time of just 15 minutes at 425°F, this pizza is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. The combination of smoky BBQ and crispy bacon will become a new favorite in your household.

Ingredients for Bbq Bacon Pizza

Quick, delicious, and perfect for any gathering. Makes a great weeknight dinner.

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Bacon quality matters here. Thick-cut bacon from Applewood Smoked or similar gives the best results. I usually grab mine from Costco when I’m doing a big batch, but the regular supermarket stuff works fine for a weeknight dinner. Look for thick-cut for that perfect crisp.

No BBQ sauce? Mix ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar for a quick substitute. Red onion can be swapped for thinly sliced shallots. If you’re out of cilantro, a sprinkle of parsley or green onions works too. The garlic powder adds depth, but omit if you’re using fresh garlic elsewhere.

This pizza reheats beautifully—keeps 3-4 days in the fridge. Freeze individual slices on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 375°F for best results.

Step-by-Step Instructions for BBQ Bacon Pizza

Let’s create this mouth-watering BBQ bacon pizza with a perfectly crispy crust and delicious toppings.

Step 1: Prepare the Pizza Dough and Toppings

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. While it’s heating up, roll out the 1 package Pizza Dough to your desired thickness, typically about ¼ inch. Transfer the dough to a pizza stone or baking sheet that you’ve lightly dusted with cornmeal to prevent sticking. Next, cook the 6 slices Bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.

Thinly slice the 0.5 whole Red Onion and set aside. I like to use a mandoline for this to get consistent, thin slices. Chop the 0.25 cup Fresh Cilantro and reserve it for garnish later. Having all your toppings ready before assembling the pizza makes the process smoother.

Step 2: Assemble the Pizza

Brush the rolled-out pizza dough with the 2 tbsp Olive Oil, making sure to cover the entire surface. This helps create a golden-brown crust and adds flavor. Sprinkle the 0.5 tsp Salt and 1 tsp Garlic Powder evenly over the oiled dough for extra seasoning.

Spread the 0.5 cup BBQ Sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust. I prefer using a tangy BBQ sauce variety to balance out the richness of the bacon and cheese. Top the BBQ sauce with the 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese. The low-moisture mozzarella helps prevent a soggy pizza.

Step 3: Add Toppings and Bake

Crumble the cooked bacon into pieces and scatter it over the mozzarella cheese. Add the thinly sliced red onion on top. The raw onion will cook down slightly during baking, adding a nice texture and flavor contrast to the crispy bacon.

Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent over-browning.

Step 4: Finish with Parmesan and Cilantro

Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately sprinkle the 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese over the top. The heat from the pizza will slightly melt the parmesan, enhancing its flavor. Drizzle any remaining bacon grease over the pizza if you like, for extra smokiness.

Garnish with the chopped fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of freshly ground Black Pepper to taste. Slice the pizza into wedges and serve hot. The combination of smoky BBQ sauce, crispy bacon, and gooey mozzarella cheese makes for an irresistible flavor profile.

Best Sauces and Condiments for This bbq bacon pizza

BBQ Sauce Options

The type of BBQ sauce you choose can dramatically change the flavor profile of your pizza. For a tangy twist, try using a vinegar-based BBQ sauce like those from the Carolinas. If you prefer a sweeter profile, go for a molasses-based or brown sugar-based BBQ sauce. I personally love using Kansas City-style BBQ sauce for its thick, sweet, and tangy characteristics. Experiment with different brands like Stubb’s or King’s Hawaiian to find your favorite. 🌶️

Cheese Combinations

While mozzarella is the traditional choice for pizza, mixing it with other cheeses can add depth. Try blending mozzarella with cheddar or gouda for a richer flavor. For a spicy kick, add some pepper jack. The key is to balance the flavors so that the cheese complements the BBQ sauce and bacon. I often use a mix of low-moisture mozzarella and a bit of parmesan for an extra savory bite.

Condiment Enhancements

To elevate your BBQ bacon pizza, consider adding some condiments after baking. A drizzle of ranch dressing or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can add freshness. For those who like a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor. You can also try adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a bright contrast to the rich toppings. 🔥

Flavor Balancing

Balancing the flavors on your pizza is crucial. The sweetness of the BBQ sauce, the saltiness of the bacon, and the richness of the cheese all need to be in harmony. Adjust the amount of BBQ sauce and toppings to your taste. If it’s too sweet, add more cheese or a sprinkle of salt. If it’s too salty, a bit more BBQ sauce or some fresh herbs can help balance it out.

Homemade BBQ Sauce

For a truly personalized touch, consider making your own BBQ sauce. A simple recipe can include ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and various spices. Simmering the sauce allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and complex sauce that’s perfect for your BBQ bacon pizza. I like to make a big batch and store it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. 🍅

Storage Tips

If you have leftover BBQ sauce or other condiments, store them properly to maintain their freshness. Keep BBQ sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Other condiments like ranch dressing should also be refrigerated and used within their expiration dates. Proper storage ensures that your condiments remain flavorful and ready for your next pizza night. ❄️