Easy Skillet Pizza with Brussels and Bacon

Who says you need a pizza oven to enjoy a delicious, homemade pizza? With this easy skillet pizza recipe, you can whip up a mouthwatering pizza right on your stovetop. Featuring a savory combination of Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon, this skillet pizza is a delightful twist on the classic. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering a simple yet flavorful meal that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients for Skillet Pizza

Essential Ingredients

To make this easy skillet pizza, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought pizza dough for convenience or make your own from scratch.
• Brussels Sprouts: Thinly sliced for a crispy texture and slightly nutty flavor.
• Bacon: Cooked until crispy, then crumbled for a salty, smoky touch.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded for gooey, melty goodness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for an extra layer of flavor.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing and drizzling.
• Garlic: Minced to add a burst of aromatic flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.

Optional Toppings

Feel free to add your favorite toppings or seasonings, such as:

• Red Pepper Flakes: For a bit of heat.
• Fresh Herbs: Like basil or thyme for added freshness.
• Balsamic Glaze: For a touch of sweetness and acidity.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Brussels Sprouts and Bacon

1. Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon strips until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Once cool, crumble into bite-sized pieces.
2. Sauté the Brussels Sprouts: In the same skillet, add a little olive oil and sauté the thinly sliced Brussels sprouts until they are golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic during the last minute of cooking for extra flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assembling the Pizza

1. Prepare the Dough: Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface to fit your skillet. If using store-bought dough, follow package instructions for stretching or rolling.
2. Preheat the Skillet: Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil.
3. Cook the Dough: Place the rolled-out dough into the hot skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and slightly crispy.
4. Add the Toppings: Flip the dough so the cooked side is up. Spread a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the dough. Top with the sautéed Brussels sprouts, crumbled bacon, and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Baking the Pizza

1. Preheat the Oven: If you haven’t already, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Bake the Pizza: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden brown.
3. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Remove the pizza from the oven and sprinkle with fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze, if desired.

Serving Suggestions

• Slice and Serve: Allow the pizza to cool slightly before slicing. Serve hot with a side salad or your favorite dipping sauce.
• Pair with a Beverage: This pizza pairs well with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, or a refreshing craft beer. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a lemon wedge complements the flavors beautifully.

Tips for Success

• Preheat the Skillet: Ensure the skillet is well-heated before adding the dough to achieve a crispy crust.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated cheeses and high-quality bacon make a big difference in flavor.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to mix and match toppings according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?

Yes, you can use different cheeses based on your preference. Cheddar, gouda, or fontina are excellent alternatives that add unique flavors and textures to the pizza.

What if I Don’t Have an Oven-Safe Skillet?

If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can transfer the assembled pizza to a baking sheet or pizza stone before baking. Just make sure to preheat the oven as instructed.

Can I Make This Pizza Ahead of Time?

While pizza is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the Brussels sprouts and bacon ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble the pizza just before cooking.

Can I Freeze Leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftover pizza. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Reheat in a preheated oven until warmed through.

How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

To make a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free pizza dough. Many stores offer gluten-free options, or you can make your own at home.

Conclusion

This easy skillet pizza with Brussels and bacon is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy homemade pizza without the need for a pizza oven. With its crispy Brussels sprouts, savory bacon, and gooey cheese, it’s a flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe delivers a satisfying and delightful pizza experience. So grab your skillet, get cooking, and enjoy a slice of homemade pizza heaven!

Yield: 2-4

Easy Skillet Pizza with Brussels and Bacon

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Who says you need a pizza oven to enjoy a delicious, homemade pizza? With this easy skillet pizza recipe, you can whip up a mouthwatering pizza right on your stovetop. Featuring a savory combination of Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon, this skillet pizza is a delightful twist on the classic. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering a simple yet flavorful meal that’s sure to impress.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Brussels Sprouts and Bacon:
• 1 cup of brussels sprouts, halved or quartered
• Drizzle of olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• 3 strips bacon
• For the Pizza:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 lb pizza dough (I used store-bought)
• 6 oz diced mozzarella cheese (the low-moisture blocks are best for this recipe – I often use part-skim and don’t notice a difference)
• 1/4 cup grated pecorino cheese
• Hot honey, for serving

Instructions

For the Brussels Sprouts and Bacon:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Spread the brussels sprouts out in an even layer on a large rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Toss the sprouts with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Push the brussels to one side of the baking sheet and arrange the bacon slices on the other half.
3. Bake for 10-12 minutes, turning the bacon once about halfway through, or until the bacon is crisped and rendered and the brussels are tender and caramelized. 
4. Remove from the oven and set aside. Once the bacon is cool enough to handle, chop into bite-sized pieces.

For the Pizza:

1. Turn on the oven broiler. Place an 8-inch cast iron skillet on the stove over medium heat.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out into a circle roughly 9 inches in diameter and ½-inch thick.
3. To the hot skillet, drizzle in half the olive oil, dried herbs, garlic salt, garlic powder, salt, and red pepper flakes.
4. Carefully place the dough in the hot skillet, pressing it into the edges. Drizzle the remaining oil and seasonings over the top.
5. Cook the pizza in the skillet for 5 minutes or until it is beginning to crisp and turn golden brown on the bottom.
6. Working quickly, add the toppings to the dough: the cheeses, brussels, and bacon. Season everything with a pinch of salt and pepper.
7. Transfer the skillet under the broiler for 1-2 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden in spots and the crust is golden and crisp – watch it carefully as this happens quickly.
8. Drizzle the pizza with hot honey and then slice and serve.

Notes

You can also make this pizza in a 10-inch skillet – this will yield a thinner crust. I prefer the 8-inch skillet because it really makes it feel like a deep dish style pizza.