Name: Spicy Jalapeño Popper Cheese Pizza
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 ball pizza dough, homemade or store-bought; 6 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded or 4 slices; 1 1/2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded; 2 fresh jalapeños, sliced, seeds removed; 2 tablespoons chives, finely chopped, to garnish (optional); 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

Pizza is a beloved comfort food, and when you combine it with the bold flavor of jalapeños and the creaminess of cheese, you create a dish that’s off the charts delicious! Our Jalapeño Popper Cheese Pizza offers a fantastic way to enjoy this classic while adding a spicy twist. Whether you’re having a family movie night, throwing a casual get-together, or simply indulging in a Friday night feast, this pizza will undoubtedly become a staple in your recipe rotation.

The creamy cheese mixture combined with the fresh jalapeños creates a delightful blend of flavors that is both satisfying and filling. And despite its gourmet taste, this pizza is surprisingly simple to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients and about 40 minutes of your time. It doesn’t just taste fantastic, it’s also visually appealing, creating a colorful and inviting centerpiece to any meal.

Plus, whether you’re a vegetarian or simply looking to incorporate more meatless dishes into your diet, this Jalapeño Popper Cheese Pizza fits the bill perfectly. Enjoy it hot and fresh from the oven, or save a couple of slices for lunch the next day. With its bold flavors and comforting textures, you‘ll find yourself coming back to this pizza time and again!

Why You’ll Love This Jalapeño Popper Cheese Pizza

Rich and Creamy: The cream cheese and Monterey Jack cheese create a luscious layer that melts perfectly on the pizza.
Perfectly Spicy: Fresh jalapeños add just the right amount of heat without overwhelming the dish.
Vegetarian-Friendly: Ideal for meatless meals while still being hearty and satisfying.
Quick and Easy: Comes together in just 40 minutes from start to finish, making it great for busy weeknights.
Customizable: Add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this delicious recipe, it’s important to prepare your kitchen and gather your tools. Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C), which will give your pizza that perfect crispy crust. You’ll need a pizza pan or baking sheet, so lightly coat it with olive oil and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. If you don’t have a rolling pin, you can stretch or roll the pizza dough by hand; just ensure you’re working on a lightly floured surface. Also, having a sharp knife for slicing the jalapeños and a mixing bowl for the cream cheese mixture will ease your preparation process.

Ingredients

1 ball pizza dough, homemade or store-bought
6 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded or 4 slices
1 1/2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
2 fresh jalapeños, sliced, seeds removed
2 tablespoons chives, finely chopped, to garnish (optional)
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to a sizzling 450°F (232°C). While the oven heats, take a pizza pan or baking sheet and give it a light coat of olive oil followed by lining it with parchment paper. This not only prevents sticking but also helps with an even bake of the crust.

Step 2: Shape the Dough

Next, take the pizza dough and stretch or roll it out to form a circle about 10 inches in diameter. You can do this by hand or with a rolling pin on a floured surface. Once you have your desired shape, carefully place the dough onto the prepared pizza pan. Make sure to form a slight edge to hold all the delicious toppings!

Step 3: Mix the Cheese Base

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use a fork or spatula to mix until the mixture is smooth and fully blended. This cheese base is what brings that creamy texture to your pizza and pairs perfectly with the heat of the jalapeños!

Step 4: Add the Toppings

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the pizza dough, taking care to leave about a 3/4 to 1-inch border for the crust. Following that, add the mozzarella cheese over the cream cheese layer — shredded or sliced works just fine! Then sprinkle the Monterey Jack cheese generously on top.

Step 5: Layer the Jalapeños

Now it’s time for the star ingredient, the jalapeños! Slice them and distribute the pieces evenly on top of the cheese layers. If you prefer a milder flavor, make sure to remove the seeds beforehand as they can add extra heat.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Transfer your pizza into the preheated oven and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes. Stay close and keep an eye on it as the crust turns golden brown and the cheese bubbles up. The wonderful aroma will fill your kitchen, making your taste buds tingle with anticipation!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once out of the oven, allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes to avoid burning your mouth! If desired, sprinkle with chopped chives for added flavor and a pop of color. Then, slice it up and serve while it’s still hot!

Variations

Protein: Add cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage if you’d like some extra protein on your pizza.
Vegetables: Feel free to add on more veggies like bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Spices: Experiment with spices like cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to turn up the heat.

Cooking Notes

Make sure to soften the cream cheese beforehand for a smooth topping.
If using store-bought dough, let it rest and come to room temperature before shaping.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh salad for a wholesome meal.
Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Tips

For an extra crispy crust, par-bake the pizza dough for 5 minutes before adding toppings.
Try using different cheese combinations like cheddar and gouda for unique flavors.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving
Protein: 18g
Sodium: 700mg

FAQs

Can I make this pizza ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pizza and keep it unbaked in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Can I freeze Jalapeño Popper Cheese Pizza?

Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked pizza for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it well and add baking time when you’re ready to cook it from frozen.

How do I adjust the spiciness?

If you prefer less spice, use fewer jalapeños or try milder varieties. Conversely, you can add more for an extra kick!

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Jalapeño Popper Cheese Pizza is a must-try for any pizza lover looking to mix things up a bit. Its creamy, cheesy goodness complemented by spicy jalapeños makes it a flavorful alternative to your regular pizza night. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also allows for a variety of delicious variations to suit your taste. So, gather your ingredients, roll up those sleeves, and enjoy the process of creating something truly mouthwatering!

Don’t forget to share your thoughts below in the comments, or let us know what variations you have tried. We love hearing from you, and happy cooking!