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Savory Tennessee Onion Pizza Recipe

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Savory Tennessee Onion Pizza Recipe

A Savory Tennessee Onion Pizza brings together a sweet, caramelized onion topping with the bold flavors of Tennessee—think of it as a harmonious mix of southern comfort food meets pizza. Caramelized onions, smoky bacon, a dash of bourbon or whiskey for depth, and a blend of cheeses create a delightful, indulgent pizza that’s perfect for a weekend dinner or special occasion.

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This recipe uses a homemade dough, though you can substitute store-bought dough for convenience if desired. The key to this pizza is the richness of the caramelized onions, complemented by the smoky and savory toppings.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pizza Dough

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
  2. Make the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, along with the olive oil. Mix until a dough forms. You can use a spoon or your hands to incorporate the flour into the liquid.
  3. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add small amounts of flour as needed, but be careful not to add too much.
  4. Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  5. Preheat the oven: Once the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C), and if you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat as well. If you don’t have a pizza stone, a baking sheet will work fine.
  6. Shape the dough: Punch the dough down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into your desired shape—round or rectangular—until it’s about 12 inches in diameter (for a standard pizza size). You can use your hands to stretch it or a rolling pin for more control.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

  1. Prepare the onions: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and sugar. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
  2. Caramelize the onions: Cook the onions for about 20-30 minutes, stirring often. The onions should begin to soften, brown, and sweeten. Once they start to caramelize, add the bourbon or whiskey and balsamic vinegar. Stir well to deglaze the pan and let the alcohol cook off for 2-3 minutes.
  3. Season the onions: Taste and adjust with salt and pepper. Once the onions are golden brown and soft, remove them from the heat and set them aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza

  1. Prepare the crust: If using a pizza stone, transfer your rolled-out dough onto a pizza peel dusted with cornmeal. If using a baking sheet, lightly grease it with olive oil and place the dough on top. If you want a crispy bottom, sprinkle some cornmeal on the sheet or stone.
  2. Add the toppings: Begin by spreading a thin layer of the caramelized onions evenly over the dough. The onions will be the base of the pizza, so make sure they cover most of the surface. You don’t need to spread them too thickly, as the other ingredients will balance out the flavors.
  3. Layer the cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and sharp cheddar cheese over the onions. The cheese will melt beautifully over the caramelized onions, creating a rich, gooey texture.
  4. Add the bacon: Evenly distribute the crumbled bacon over the pizza. Bacon adds a wonderful salty crunch that pairs perfectly with the sweet onions.
  5. Optional garnishes: If you like, sprinkle some fresh thyme or rosemary over the pizza before baking for an added herbaceous touch.

Step 4: Bake the Pizza

  1. Bake the pizza: Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  2. Check for doneness: The pizza should have a crisp, golden crust and slightly browned cheese. You can use a pizza peel or spatula to lift the edge of the pizza to check the bottom for crispiness.
  3. Cool and slice: Once the pizza is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Slice the pizza into 8 wedges and garnish with chopped green onions for freshness.

Serving Suggestions

A Savory Tennessee Onion Pizza is an indulgent dish, but it pairs well with a variety of side dishes that complement its rich and smoky flavor:

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  • Salads: A fresh, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette, like arugula or spinach, will balance the richness of the pizza. Try adding some apple slices or walnuts for extra flavor.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Serve your pizza with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or carrots to round out the meal.
  • Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw with a tangy dressing makes a great pairing, especially with the smoky bacon and caramelized onions.

Variations and Customizations

While the Savory Tennessee Onion Pizza is delicious as is, there are several ways to customize the recipe:

1. Vegetarian Version:

If you prefer a vegetarian option, simply leave out the bacon. The caramelized onions alone will provide enough depth and flavor. You can also add some sautéed mushrooms for an earthy richness.

2. Spicy Version:

For a bit of heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the pizza before baking. Alternatively, you can drizzle some hot honey or spicy barbecue sauce over the pizza after baking for a sweet and spicy combination.

3. Use Different Cheeses:

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for your pizza:

  • Goat cheese or blue cheese can be a bold and tangy option.
  • A mix of mozzarella and Fontina will provide a gooey, melty base.
  • For a sharp contrast, add some parmesan cheese after baking.

4. BBQ Tennessee Onion Pizza:

If you’re a fan of barbecue flavors, swap the whiskey with some BBQ sauce during the caramelization process of the onions. Top the pizza with grilled chicken or even pulled pork for a full Southern BBQ experience.

Advanced Tips for the Perfect Savory Tennessee Onion Pizza

While the basic recipe is simple to follow, there are some advanced tips and tricks that can elevate your pizza-making skills and help you create an even more professional-tasting pizza. Whether you’re looking to refine your technique or introduce new ingredients, these tips will guide you along the way.

1. Perfecting the Dough

The dough is the foundation of every great pizza. To ensure your crust has the perfect balance of chewiness and crispiness, consider the following tips:

  • Hydration: A slightly wetter dough (around 70% hydration, meaning 70% of the weight of the flour in water) can yield a lighter, airier crust. If your dough feels a bit dry during kneading, you can add a small amount of water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.
  • Longer Rising Time: For an even better texture, allow the dough to rise slowly in the fridge for 24 hours. This slow fermentation will develop more complex flavors in the dough, and you’ll have a light, crispy crust with a delicious tang.
  • Stretch, Don’t Roll: When shaping your dough, consider using your hands to stretch it out rather than using a rolling pin. This technique helps preserve the air bubbles in the dough, which results in a lighter crust with a nice, airy texture.

2. Using a Pizza Stone or Steel

If you want to get as close as possible to a professional pizza oven experience at home, a pizza stone or pizza steel is a great investment. Both tools provide excellent heat retention, which helps achieve a crispy, well-browned crust.

  • Pizza Stone: Place your stone in the oven while preheating. Let it heat for at least 30 minutes before baking your pizza. The stone will ensure an evenly cooked base with a crispy bottom.
  • Pizza Steel: A pizza steel is even better at retaining heat than a stone and can lead to an even more beautifully crisp crust. It also cooks the pizza faster, which is perfect for achieving a golden, charred crust in just 8-10 minutes.

3. The Right Cheese Melting Techniques

For the creamiest and most luscious cheese topping, consider the following:

  • Pre-shredding Cheese: Shredding your own cheese from blocks rather than using pre-shredded cheese can result in a smoother, more melty texture. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can hinder its meltability.
  • Mozzarella First: Place the mozzarella cheese directly onto the dough before any other toppings. Mozzarella melts quickly and provides a gooey base, allowing the other ingredients (such as bacon and caramelized onions) to rest nicely on top.
  • Finishing Cheese: Once your pizza is baked, you can sprinkle a bit of parmesan or pecorino on top while it’s still hot for an added burst of umami flavor.

4. Caramelizing Onions to Perfection

Getting your onions perfectly caramelized is key to the success of this pizza. Here’s how you can take your caramelization to the next level:

  • Low and Slow: Caramelizing onions takes time, but patience is key. Cook them over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll notice that they become deeply brown and tender, releasing their natural sugars.
  • Deglaze with Bourbon or Whiskey: Adding bourbon or whiskey to the onions is a great way to enhance their sweetness and depth. Make sure you cook it down until most of the alcohol evaporates, leaving behind the rich, smoky flavors.
  • Extra Sweetness: If you want to boost the natural sweetness of the onions, add a teaspoon of brown sugar during the caramelization process. This can help elevate the savory and sweet balance of the pizza.

5. The Final Touch: Herb Garnishes

Once your pizza comes out of the oven, don’t forget to add fresh herbs for a burst of flavor:

  • Thyme or Rosemary: These herbs pair wonderfully with the caramelized onions and bacon. You can sprinkle them over the pizza just before serving or even toss a few sprigs onto the pizza before baking to infuse the flavors further.
  • Fresh Parsley or Basil: Fresh parsley or basil can be added just before serving to give the pizza a touch of freshness and color.
  • Drizzle of Olive Oil: After baking, consider drizzling a little bit of high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the pizza. This will enhance the flavors of the crust and toppings and add a layer of richness.

Additional Variations

While the Savory Tennessee Onion Pizza recipe as described is rich and flavorful, you can easily customize it to suit different tastes, dietary preferences, and regional influences. Here are a few variations to consider:

1. Sweet and Spicy Tennessee Onion Pizza

Add an element of heat and sweetness to balance the savory flavors by incorporating:

  • Hot Honey: After baking, drizzle hot honey over the pizza. The sweetness of the honey and the heat from chili flakes or cayenne pepper create an irresistible flavor contrast.
  • Pickled Jalapeños: Layer some pickled jalapeños on top of the pizza before baking to infuse some spicy kick. They will add a tangy, spicy note that pairs nicely with the caramelized onions.

2. BBQ Tennessee Onion Pizza

For a smoky BBQ twist, replace the whiskey in the caramelized onions with a splash of BBQ sauce. You can also add:

  • BBQ Pulled Pork: Use shredded BBQ pork as a topping. The smoky, tender meat will complement the caramelized onions and create a barbecue-inspired pizza.
  • Cheddar and Gouda Cheese: Swap the mozzarella and cheddar for a combination of smoked Gouda and sharp cheddar for a smokier, richer flavor profile.

3. Vegan Savory Tennessee Onion Pizza

Make this pizza vegan-friendly by substituting the cheese and bacon with plant-based alternatives:

  • Vegan Cheese: Use your favorite vegan cheese that melts well, such as cashew cheese or vegan mozzarella.
  • Vegan Bacon: You can use tempeh bacon or vegan sausage as a substitute for the bacon. These options provide a great smoky, savory flavor without the meat.
  • Olives or Mushrooms: If you miss the texture of meat, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or green olives for a more satisfying bite.

4. Meat Lover’s Tennessee Onion Pizza

For a hearty, meat-packed version, load up your pizza with additional proteins like:

  • Sausage: Add cooked, crumbled Italian sausage or chorizo for an extra savory boost.
  • Pepperoni or Salami: Layer sliced pepperoni or salami over the top of the pizza before baking to give it a traditional yet flavorful twist.

Pizza Pairing Recommendations

A delicious Savory Tennessee Onion Pizza pairs wonderfully with a variety of drinks, from craft beers to refreshing cocktails. Here are some pairing suggestions to elevate your pizza experience:

1. Beer Pairings

  • Pale Ale or IPA: The hoppy bitterness of a pale ale or India Pale Ale can cut through the richness of the cheese and caramelized onions, creating a well-balanced pairing.
  • Amber Ale: The maltiness of an amber ale complements the smoky bacon and caramelized onions, enhancing the overall flavor of the pizza.
  • Porter or Stout: For a heavier option, a porter or stout provides rich, roasted flavors that pair perfectly with the savory depth of the pizza.

2. Wine Pairings

  • Red Wine: A medium-bodied red like Zinfandel or Merlot pairs nicely with the richness of the cheese and bacon. The tannins in the wine help balance out the fattiness of the pizza.
  • White Wine: For those who prefer white wine, a Chardonnay with a touch of oak can complement the caramelized onions, while a Sauvignon Blanc offers a fresh contrast to the richness.

3. Cocktails

  • Old Fashioned: For a classic, whiskey-based cocktail, an Old Fashioned works beautifully with the bourbon or whiskey caramelized onions, enhancing the smoky flavor profile of the pizza.
  • Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing lemonade or sweet iced tea with a splash of bourbon provides a southern-inspired drink pairing that balances the savory and sweet elements of the pizza.

Conclusion: Creating the Ultimate Savory Tennessee Onion Pizza

The Savory Tennessee Onion Pizza is an indulgent, flavorful twist on traditional pizza, perfect for those who love a mix of rich, smoky, and sweet flavors. The caramelized onions, combined with crispy bacon, sharp cheeses, and a touch of bourbon or whiskey, make this pizza a truly unique dish that will impress anyone at the dinner table. Whether you’re making it for a weekend treat, a special occasion, or simply as a way to explore new flavors, this pizza is sure to become a favorite.

With its customizable toppings and potential for various flavor profiles, the Savory Tennessee Onion Pizza can be tailored to suit your preferences. You can also use it as inspiration for other Southern-inspired pizza variations.

Enjoy making your pizza, and feel free to experiment with different ingredients! Let me know if you need more variations or additional details on any part of the recipe.

The Savory Tennessee Onion Pizza is a rich and flavorful dish that brings a southern twist to the traditional pizza. With its layers of caramelized onions, smoky bacon, and a blend of cheeses, this pizza is sure to be a hit at any meal. Whether you’re hosting a pizza night, looking for a special treat, or simply craving a unique flavor experience, this pizza delivers all the right elements of comfort and indulgence.

By customizing the ingredients, adjusting the toppings, and playing around with flavor profiles, you can make this pizza your own. Try out different variations, experiment with different cheeses or proteins, and find the perfect combination for your tastes.

Let me know if you’d like any more details or variations—I’m happy to help you create the perfect Savory Tennessee Onion Pizza every time!

Yield: 2

Savory Tennessee Onion Pizza Recipe

Savory Tennessee Onion Pizza Recipe

A Savory Tennessee Onion Pizza brings together a sweet, caramelized onion topping with the bold flavors of Tennessee—think of it as a harmonious mix of southern comfort food meets pizza. Caramelized onions, smoky bacon, a dash of bourbon or whiskey for depth, and a blend of cheeses create a delightful, indulgent pizza that’s perfect for a weekend dinner or special occasion.

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 package pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking onions)
  • 2 large onions (thinly sliced)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for extra caramelization)
  • 1/4 cup Tennessee whiskey (optional, but recommended for flavor)
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (or feta cheese for a sharper taste)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh thyme leaves (or dried thyme)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for brushing the pizza crust

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the onions: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
    Add the sliced onions and season with a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20-30 minutes, until the onions are soft and golden brown. If you want extra sweetness, sprinkle the brown sugar over the onions as they cook.
    Add the whiskey to the onions and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate and the flavor to infuse the onions. Set aside.
  2. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and prepare your pizza stone or baking sheet.
  3. Prepare the pizza dough: Roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness on a floured surface. If using a baking sheet, lightly grease it with olive oil.
  4. Assemble the pizza: Brush the edges of the pizza dough with olive oil to create a crispy crust.
    Evenly distribute the caramelized onions over the pizza dough.
    Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese, goat cheese, and Parmesan cheese over the top.
    Add a few sprigs of fresh thyme or a sprinkle of dried thyme.
    Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Bake the pizza: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven, slice, and serve. Optional: drizzle with a little more olive oil or balsamic reduction for extra flavor.

Notes

1. Dough Tips:

  • Store-Bought Dough Option: If you’re short on time or prefer convenience, you can substitute store-bought pizza dough for the homemade version. Many pizzerias and grocery stores offer high-quality dough that you can roll out and use.
  • Resting the Dough: If you have time, let your pizza dough rise in the fridge overnight (or for up to 24 hours). This slow fermentation will enhance the flavor and texture of the crust.

2. Caramelizing Onions:

  • Patience is Key: Caramelizing onions can take time (around 30 minutes). Be patient and stir occasionally to ensure they don’t burn. They should turn golden brown and become sweet in flavor.
  • Deglaze with Alcohol: If you choose to use whiskey or bourbon, deglaze the pan after the onions are caramelized to add a deeper, smoky flavor. Allow the alcohol to cook off, leaving only the complex flavors behind.
  • Sweetness Level: If you prefer sweeter onions, you can add an additional teaspoon of brown sugar or maple syrup during the caramelization process.

3. Cheese Options:

  • Shredding Cheese: For the best melt and flavor, opt for freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded versions. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect its meltability.
  • Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Smoked Gouda or Fontina can provide extra depth, while Parmesan sprinkled on top after baking adds a lovely sharpness.

4. Bacon Substitutes:

  • Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, you can leave out the bacon and replace it with tempeh bacon, tofu crumbles, or simply add more vegetables like mushrooms for texture.
  • Turkey Bacon: If you prefer a lighter option, turkey bacon can be a great substitute for regular bacon. It still provides some of the smoky flavor without as much fat.

5. Adjusting the Spice Level:

  • Heat Lovers: Add jalapeños, chili flakes, or even a drizzle of hot honey for a sweet and spicy contrast. If you prefer heat with your caramelized onions, sprinkle some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes in the onion mixture during caramelization.
  • Milder Flavor: If you prefer a more subdued flavor, reduce the amount of bourbon or whiskey or skip it entirely. You can still achieve a great depth of flavor with the onions alone.

6. Pizza Stone or Baking Sheet:

  • Pizza Stone: For a crispier crust, use a preheated pizza stone. Place it in the oven while preheating for about 30 minutes. This will allow the crust to cook evenly and become crispy.
  • Baking Sheet: If you don’t have a pizza stone, a baking sheet works just as well. Simply grease it lightly with olive oil or sprinkle it with cornmeal to prevent the dough from sticking.

7. Make It a Meal:

  • Side Dishes: Serve the pizza with a light, refreshing arugula salad or a side of roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes for a well-rounded meal.
  • Drinks: Pair your pizza with a cold IPA beer, a refreshing white wine, or a Southern-inspired sweet iced tea for a delightful dining experience.

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