Barbecue Bacon Pizza Smoky

If you crave a pizza with deep smoky flavor and satisfyingly crisp edges, this Barbecue Bacon Pizza never fails to impress. It layers tangy barbecue sauce, sizzling bacon, two cheeses, and sweet red onion onto a golden crust for an easy dinner or game-day treat that hits every comfort craving.

I made this for a summer barbecue once and not a single slice was left on the tray. Since then, it has become the pizza my friends always ask for during get-togethers.

Ingredients

• Pizza dough: brings chewiness and structure to hold all those toppings shop for dough with a little spring when pressed
• Barbecue sauce: gives this pizza its signature sweet smoky zing use a smoky variety for best results
• Bacon: adds a hearty salty crunch choose thick-cut for maximum flavor
• Mozzarella cheese: melts into gooey perfection always use freshly shredded for the best melt
• Cheddar cheese: brings a rich tangy bite sharp cheddar adds lots of personality
• Red onion: provides subtle sweetness and a little crunch choose one that feels firm with shiny skin
• Fresh cilantro or parsley: brightens everything up optional but highly recommended for a fresh finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare:

Heat your oven to the hottest setting you can usually about four hundred seventy five degrees. If you have a pizza stone, put it in the oven now to get it super hot

Shape the Dough:

Lightly flour your work surface then gently roll or stretch the dough to your favorite thickness. Move it to a piece of parchment paper for an easier transfer

Pre-bake the Crust:

Slide the dough into the oven and bake for five to seven minutes just until it starts to turn lightly golden. This sets up a crust that stays crispy under the toppings

Layer the Flavors:

Spread a generous layer of barbecue sauce across the warm crust stopping just short of the edges. Scatter the chopped bacon over the sauce then sprinkle on both cheeses and top with thin red onion slices. Be sure to distribute everything evenly

Bake to Perfection:

Carefully move the pizza with its parchment paper either onto the hot stone or a sturdy baking sheet. Bake for ten to fifteen minutes watching for the cheese to bubble and the crust to turn golden brown

Finish and Serve:

Remove the pizza and let it rest for a few minutes so the cheese sets up a bit. Just before slicing shower it with chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh pop

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I always look forward to the smoky sweet aroma that fills my kitchen from the barbecue sauce. My family has a ritual of tasting different sauces every time we make this so there is always something new even with a familiar recipe.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any extra slices in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat place slices on a baking sheet in a hot oven for five to eight minutes so the crust becomes crisp again and the cheese remelts. Avoid microwaving if you want the pizza to stay crisp

Smart Ingredient Swaps

You can substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option or use smoked gouda instead of cheddar for another level of richness. Red pepper or thinly sliced mushrooms make great extras that blend in without overpowering the flavor

Serving Ideas

Set out bowls of extra barbecue sauce for dipping for fans of extra flavor. Pair it with a simple green salad or crunchy coleslaw for balance. These slices also make amazing cold leftovers if you are into that

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A Slice of Pizza History

Barbecue chicken pizza may have started the trend but bacon lovers quickly claimed this smoky combo as a classic. It is an American favorite that turns pizza night into something worth celebrating

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I achieve a crispy pizza crust?

Pre-bake the crust briefly before adding toppings and bake at a high temperature for a crispy finish.

→ Can I use a different cheese blend?

Absolutely, try adding gouda or Monterey Jack alongside mozzarella and cheddar for extra richness.

→ Is it better to use homemade or store-bought dough?

Both work beautifully; homemade dough allows customization, while store-bought saves time.

→ How can I make the pizza less sweet?

Choose a smokier, tangier barbecue sauce and reduce the amount used for a more balanced flavor.

→ Are fresh herbs necessary?

No, but fresh cilantro or parsley provide extra flavor and visual appeal as a garnish.