Unleash the Heat: The Ultimate Spicy Pepperoni Skillet Pizza with Chili Crisp & Hot Honey
Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable experience! This spicy pizza recipe is a symphony of flavors and textures, delivering intense heat, satisfying crunch, and all the gooey, melted cheese you could ever desire. With tantalizing layers of savory chili crisp, sweet-spicy hot honey, and perfectly crisped pepperoni, this isn’t just any homemade pizza—it’s the spicy skillet masterpiece you’ll be eager to brag about. Forget bland takeout; this recipe elevates your pizza night into a truly exceptional culinary adventure, offering a perfect balance of bold flavors and satisfying textures that will leave you craving every last bite.
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About This Spicy Pizza
This spicy pizza recipe redefines what homemade pizza can be, delivering an explosion of flavor that genuinely brings the heat in all the most delicious ways. It’s a culinary journey inspired by the internet’s widespread chili crisp obsession and the exciting trend of transforming everyday comfort foods into vibrant, spicy masterpieces. Crafted in a trusty cast-iron skillet, this pizza isn’t just a meal; it’s a next-level experience that far surpasses your usual Friday night favorite. Each bite is a symphony of textures and tastes: the rich creaminess of melted cheese, the irresistible crunch of perfectly crisped pepperoni, and a robust tomato base that’s been thoughtfully amped up with a generous sprinkle of red pepper flakes. The grand finale? A sweet and spicy drizzle of hot honey, complemented by the profound umami kick of chili crisp, creating a flavor profile that is truly unique and addictive.
If the thought of making skillet pizza is new to you, prepare to be amazed. A cast-iron skillet is the secret weapon here, guaranteeing a remarkably crispy, golden-brown crust without the need for a specialized pizza stone. This method is incredibly straightforward and consistently produces a crust that’s wonderfully crisp on the bottom, while the toppings bubble and meld together under the oven’s high heat to absolute perfection. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Are you a true heat seeker? Feel free to intensify the spice by adding more chili crisp or a more liberal drizzle of hot honey. Planning a family dinner where spice tolerance varies? The heat level is easily adjustable, allowing you to dial it down significantly for kids or those with sensitive palates, all while retaining the pizza’s incredible foundational flavors. Despite its gourmet taste and impressive presentation, this spicy skillet pizza comes together quickly, making it a surprisingly accessible option that looks far more intricate than the effort it requires.
Through countless rounds of testing and meticulous tweaking, this has become the spicy pizza recipe that I return to time and again. Its bold, perfectly balanced flavors and consistent crowd-pleasing ability make it a staple in my kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering, enjoying a cozy date night, or simply treating yourself to a meal that’s a step above standard delivery, this spicy skillet pizza promises a triumphant and utterly satisfying dining experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Cast iron skillet = crispy, golden crust every time: The even, intense heat of cast iron ensures a perfectly caramelized and crunchy base, replicating pizzeria quality at home with minimal effort.
- Adjustable spice level for every heat preference: From a gentle warmth to an intense fiery kick, you have complete control over how spicy you make your pizza, catering to all taste buds at your table.
- Sweet, savory, spicy flavor combo hits all the right notes: The unique blend of hot honey’s sweetness, pepperoni’s savory depth, and chili crisp’s complex spice creates a deeply satisfying and addictive taste experience.
- Minimal effort, maximum flavor: Despite its gourmet profile and impressive appearance, this recipe is surprisingly easy to execute, allowing you to achieve outstanding results with straightforward steps and common ingredients.
- Great for date night, parties, or solo pizza cravings: Versatile enough for any occasion, this pizza is sure to impress guests or provide the ultimate indulgent treat for yourself on a cozy night in.
Ingredients for Spicy Skillet Pizza
- Pizza sauce: Use a simple, flavorful tomato base like this homemade pizza sauce recipe or your favorite high-quality store-bought marinara. The key is a rich, robust tomato flavor that serves as a perfect canvas for the spice. Stir in crushed red pepper flakes directly into the sauce to build that baseline of heat right into the heart of the pizza.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: These are your primary lever for adjusting the pizza’s internal spice level. They infuse the sauce with a subtle, consistent warmth that awakens the palate. Start with the recommended amount, or even lighter if you’re cautious about heat, and remember you can always add more once the sauce is mixed or as a topping later for an extra kick.
- All-purpose flour: A light dusting of all-purpose flour on your work surface is essential for smooth pizza making. It prevents the pizza dough from sticking while you’re rolling or stretching it, making the handling process much more manageable and less frustrating.
- Pizza dough: The foundation of any great pizza! Whether you opt for the convenience of quality store-bought dough or the satisfaction of a homemade version like this garlic agave crust, ensure it has good elasticity to stretch easily and enough structural integrity to hold your delicious toppings. Fresh dough from a local pizzeria or an Italian market often yields superior results.
- Cornmeal: This simple ingredient is crucial for achieving that signature crispy, nonstick bottom crust. Scatter a generous layer into the skillet before adding the dough; it creates a slight barrier between the dough and the hot pan, preventing sticking and contributing a fantastic, subtle textural element.
- Olive oil: Brushing extra virgin olive oil over the top of the dough before adding the sauce and other toppings is a small step with big impact. It not only adds a lovely richness to the crust but also aids in achieving a beautiful golden-brown color and a satisfying crispness as it bakes.
- Mozzarella cheese: For the best melt and flavor, freshly shredded low-moisture mozzarella is highly recommended. It melts beautifully into a gooey, stretchy layer that perfectly complements the spicy and savory components. Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can hinder a smooth melt and affect the texture.
- Shallot: When sliced thinly, shallots contribute a delicate sweetness and an aromatic depth that brilliantly offsets and balances the bolder, spicier elements of the pizza. They caramelize slightly during baking, adding another layer of complex flavor without overwhelming the other ingredients.
- Pepperoni: This is where the classic pizza crunch comes in! Don’t be shy – pile on the pepperoni for full coverage. As it bakes, the edges will curl and crisp up into savory cups, releasing a spicy-salty burst of flavor with every single bite. Choose a good quality, thinly sliced pepperoni for the best results.
- Chili crisp: The star of the show for serious heat and umami. This savory, crunchy condiment, typically made from chili flakes, fried garlic, crispy onions, and other aromatics steeped in oil, delivers a complex and addictive spice. A little goes a long way, so start with a modest amount unless you’re intimately familiar with its potency and adore intense heat.
- Fresh basil: Added after baking, fresh basil provides a vibrant, aromatic lift. Its peppery, slightly sweet notes cut through the richness and spice, brightening the overall flavor profile without wilting under direct heat. It also adds a beautiful pop of color.
- Whipped ricotta, hot honey: These are the optional, but highly recommended, finishing touches that elevate this pizza to gourmet status. Whipped ricotta adds a creamy, luscious, and cooling element, providing a delightful textural contrast and a calming counterpoint to the spice. Hot honey, a sweet-spicy infusion, ties all the complex flavors together, adding an irresistible sticky glaze and a final kiss of heat. You can easily make your own whipped ricotta by blending ricotta cheese with a touch of olive oil and salt until smooth.
Essential Tools for This Recipe
To truly unlock the potential of this spicy pizza and ensure a smooth cooking process, a few essential tools will make all the difference. Foremost among them is a 10-inch cast iron skillet. This robust, heat-retaining pan is the cornerstone of this recipe, single-handedly responsible for achieving that coveted golden-brown, irresistibly crisp crust. Its ability to withstand and distribute super high heat consistently ensures every inch of your pizza base cooks perfectly, mimicking the intense heat of a professional pizza oven.
Beyond the skillet, you’ll want a sturdy rolling pin for efficiently shaping your pizza dough into a uniform circle. A well-rolled dough ensures even baking and a consistent crust thickness, preventing overly thick or thin spots. Lastly, a sharp pizza cutter is indispensable for cleanly slicing through the thick layers of cheesy, crispy goodness without disturbing the toppings or tearing the crust. For safety, remember to also have a good pair of oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves when handling the extremely hot cast iron skillet, as it will retain heat for a long time.
Here’s How to Make This Spicy Pizza
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Skillet
Begin by preheating your oven to its maximum temperature, ideally 550˚F (287˚C). If your oven’s highest setting is 500˚F (260˚C), that will work perfectly too. While the oven heats up, place your 10-inch cast iron skillet inside. This crucial step preheats the skillet, ensuring an immediate sizzle when the dough hits the hot surface, which is key to developing that wonderfully crispy crust.
Step 2: Mix the Spicy Sauce
In a small bowl, combine your chosen pizza sauce (or marinara) with the crushed red pepper flakes. Stir thoroughly to integrate the spice evenly throughout. This is your chance to customize the heat to your liking: taste the sauce and add more red pepper flakes if you desire a fierier kick. Remember, you can always add more, but it’s much harder to reduce the heat once mixed in!
Step 3: Flour and Shape the Dough
Lightly dust a clean work surface with all-purpose flour. Turn your pizza dough out onto this surface. Gently roll or stretch the dough into a circle that is approximately 12 to 14 inches in diameter – it should be slightly larger than your skillet, as you’ll want it to extend up the sides. Aim for an even thickness throughout the dough to ensure consistent baking and a uniform crust.
Step 4: Cornmeal and Skillet Placement
With extreme caution, using thick oven mitts, carefully remove the intensely hot skillet from the oven. Scatter two teaspoons of cornmeal evenly across the bottom of the skillet. This granular layer acts as a crucial barrier, preventing the dough from sticking and contributing to that delightful crispy texture on the base of your pizza. Immediately proceed to the next step.
Step 5: Brush with Olive Oil
Carefully lay the stretched pizza dough into the preheated skillet. Working quickly but gently, press the edges of the dough up the sides of the pan to form a small, protective rim or crust. Be extra mindful not to touch the hot metal of the skillet with your bare hands. Using a pastry brush, generously coat the entire surface of the dough with extra virgin olive oil. This not only adds a lovely richness and flavor to the crust but also aids in achieving a beautiful golden-brown color and a satisfying crispness as it bakes.
Step 6: Spread the Sauce
Spoon the spicy pizza sauce mixture over the olive oil-brushed dough. Spread it evenly across the surface, making sure to leave a small, half-inch border around the edge of the crust. This border will puff up nicely during baking, creating a perfect, pillowy rim that adds to the pizza’s appeal.
Step 7: Add Your Toppings
Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, ensuring good coverage. Then, evenly scatter the thinly sliced shallots and arrange the pepperoni slices on top. For maximum crispiness, try to spread the pepperoni out so each slice gets direct heat and curls up beautifully as it cooks.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Carefully return the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 13 to 15 minutes. Keep a close eye on your pizza; you’ll know it’s ready when the crust is beautifully golden brown around the edges and the cheese is thoroughly melted, bubbly, and perhaps slightly browned or blistered in spots. For an extra crispy and beautifully charred top, you can broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching it very closely to prevent burning.
Step 9: Finish and Serve
Once baked to perfection, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Immediately top the hot pizza with a generous drizzle of chili crisp and a scattering of fresh basil leaves. If you’re using them, add dollops of creamy whipped ricotta and finish with a delicate drizzle of hot honey for that irresistible sweet and spicy balance that ties all the flavors together. Allow the pizza to cool for just a minute or two – this helps the cheese set slightly, preventing it from sliding off. Then, using your pizza cutter, slice into wedges and serve immediately while the cheese is still molten and inviting. Enjoy your incredible homemade spicy skillet pizza!
Tips for a Perfect Spicy Pizza
- Preheat your skillet diligently: Always preheat your cast iron skillet in the oven as it heats up. This initial high temperature is crucial for achieving that incredibly crisp, golden-brown base that truly elevates a skillet pizza.
- Shape your dough strategically: Aim to shape your pizza dough slightly larger than the diameter of your skillet. This allows the dough to comfortably hug the sides of the pan, forming a lovely crust edge and ensuring full coverage.
- Don’t skip the cornmeal: Cornmeal is your best friend for a nonstick, textured crust. A generous scattering on the hot skillet before adding the dough provides a subtle crunch and prevents sticking, making for easy removal.
- Brush with olive oil: Before adding any toppings, brush the dough with a thin layer of olive oil. This simple step adds extra flavor, promotes a beautiful golden color, and contributes to a crispier crust.
- Time your chili crisp application: Chili crisp is potent! For optimal flavor and to prevent it from burning or losing its nuanced spice, always add it after the pizza comes out of the oven. This allows you to control the heat and enjoy its fresh, aromatic qualities.
- Broil for extra browning: If your pizza top isn’t quite as golden and bubbly as you’d like, broil it for the last 1–2 minutes. Watch it continuously, as broiler heat is intense and can burn quickly.
- Customize the heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, start light with the crushed red pepper flakes in the sauce and the chili crisp on top. If you live for heat, don’t hold back! Try layering hot sauce into the sauce, adding extra red pepper flakes, or even some sliced pickled jalapeños before baking for a truly fiery experience.
- Don’t overload your toppings: While it’s tempting, too many toppings can make the pizza soggy and prevent the crust from crisping properly. Stick to the recommended amounts for the best balance.
- Let it rest: After removing from the oven, allow the pizza to rest for 1-2 minutes before slicing. This helps the cheese set slightly, making for cleaner cuts and preventing toppings from sliding off.
Spicy Pizza Flavor Variations
This spicy pizza recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing for numerous delicious adaptations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences:
- Spicy Italian Sausage Pizza: You can easily swap out the pepperoni for spicy Italian sausage if you’re looking for a different kind of robust heat. Brown the sausage lightly before spreading it on the pizza. It brings a richer, meatier flavor that pairs exceptionally well with the chili crisp and hot honey. Other meat options could include crumbled spicy chicken sausage or even crispy bacon bits.
- Vegetarian Spicy Pizza: For a delightful veggie-friendly version, simply skip the meat entirely. Instead, pile on umami-rich vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, thinly sliced bell peppers (red or yellow for sweetness), roasted zucchini, or even a handful of spinach. You can also add some sun-dried tomatoes or olives for extra depth. Consider roasting tougher vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers briefly before adding them to the pizza to ensure they cook through.
- Elevate the Cheese Blend: While mozzarella is a classic for its melt, mixing it with other cheeses can add wonderful complexity. Try blending mozzarella with fontina for a nuttier, gooier melt, or provolone for a sharper, more piquant flavor. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano after baking can also add a salty, umami kick.
- Gluten-Free Option: If you need a gluten-free pizza, opt for a high-quality gluten-free pizza dough that is specifically designed for high-heat baking. Many excellent brands are available that will still crisp up beautifully in the cast iron skillet, ensuring you don’t miss out on that signature crunchy crust. Always check the package instructions for specific baking times for gluten-free dough.
More pizza recipes to try: Pesto Greens Pizza I Grilled Burrata Pizza I Salsa Verde Chorizo Pizza I Four Cheese Pizza Dip
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I adjust the heat for kids or those with sensitive palates?
To reduce the spice, simply skip the crushed red pepper flakes in the sauce and omit the chili crisp topping. You can use a mild tomato sauce and enhance the cooling effect by generously adding dollops of whipped ricotta to each slice. This creates a creamy, comforting pizza that everyone can enjoy.
Do I need a cast iron skillet?
For the absolute best results—meaning that signature crispy, golden-brown crust—a cast iron skillet is highly recommended. Its superior heat retention and distribution are unparalleled. While a heavy-duty pizza pan or baking steel might work as an alternative, they likely won’t deliver the same exceptional crisp texture on the bottom that makes this skillet pizza truly shine.
Which chili crisp is best?
The “best” chili crisp often comes down to personal preference, as flavors can vary widely. Look for varieties that feature aromatic ingredients like fried garlic, crispy onions, or fermented soybeans for extra depth and umami. Some brands are significantly spicier than others, so always check the label for heat level and adjust the amount you use according to your taste.
Can I make this spicy pizza vegetarian?
Absolutely! This pizza is easily adaptable for vegetarians. Simply skip the pepperoni entirely. You can compensate for the richness and umami by going heavy on other flavorful toppings such as sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, roasted red peppers, or even grilled eggplant. A blend of different cheeses can also add depth.
How do I make it extra spicy?
For the true heat enthusiasts, there are several ways to crank up the spice! Try adding a few sliced pickled jalapeños or serrano peppers to the pizza before baking. You can also drizzle your favorite hot sauce over the finished pizza, or mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper with the red pepper flakes in the sauce for an intense, lingering heat.
Need more pizza recipes? Check out my pizza & flatbread page for more inspiration.
What to Serve with Your Spicy Pizza
This bold and flavorful spicy pizza pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides that can complement its heat and richness:
- A crisp green salad is an excellent choice to balance out the richness and heat of this spicy pizza. The cool, refreshing crunch of fresh greens contrasts beautifully with the warm, spicy flavors. A classic homemade Caesar dressing would add a bold, savory, and creamy element to every bite.
- Garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser and a perfect companion to pizza. You can opt for quick toasted garlic bread for a simple yet satisfying option, or elevate your meal with hearty sourdough garlic toast if you desire something a little more substantial and textural.
- Roasted vegetables make an easy, flavorful, and healthy side dish. Something like this spicy-sweet broccolini would hold its own perfectly alongside the intense flavors of the pizza, adding both nutrients and a complementary kick. Roasted asparagus or bell peppers are also great options.
- And if you’re embracing the comfort food theme fully, a side of crispy fries is a fun, indulgent addition. They bring that extra salty, crispy element that works perfectly with the gooey cheese and spicy toppings, creating a truly satisfying meal.
Explore More Spicy Recipes
If you’re still craving that wonderful warmth and flavor, keep the heat going with these other fantastic spicy recipes:
- Indulge in this ultra-comforting spicy lasagna dip, perfect for sharing and packed with cheesy, zesty goodness.
- Warm up with a hearty bowl of slow cooker spicy taco chili, a flavorful and easy-to-make meal ideal for chilly evenings.
- Or, if you need a refreshing counterpoint with a kick, try this vibrant spicy mango margarita to cool you down while still delivering that beloved heat.
Finally, if you make this spicy pizza recipe, please be sure to give this recipe a star rating on the recipe card and/or leave a comment! I love to hear when you all make recipes, and I do take the time to respond to every single comment.
Feel free to drop questions below too, if you have them!
Oh and be sure to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you make the recipe! I love being able to see these recipes come to life in your homes – it’s my favorite thing to look through those photos. It really means the world to me!
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Spicy Pepperoni Skillet Pizza
Equipment
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10″ Cast Iron Skillet
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Rolling Pin
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Pizza Cutter
Ingredients
- 1 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 pound store-bought or homemade pizza dough
- 2 teaspoons cornmeal helps prevent sticking
- 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 shallot thinly sliced
- 1 to 1 ½ cups sliced pepperoni
- 1 to 2 Tablespoons chili crisp
- ⅓ cup fresh basil
- Optional toppings: whipped ricotta hot honey
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 550˚F (287˚C), or 500˚F/260˚C if your oven doesn’t go that high. Place a cast iron skillet in the oven as it preheats.
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In a small bowl, stir together pizza sauce and crushed red pepper flakes. Taste and add more red pepper flakes if desired – you can make the sauce as spicy as you’d like!
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On a clean lightly-floured work surface, flatten the dough into a circle. You can roll it or stretch it out into a 12 to 14 inch circle, depending on the size of your skillet. I used a 10-inch cast iron skillet and shaped my dough into a 12-inch circle.
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Carefully remove skillet from the oven. Scatter cornmeal evenly to cover the bottom of the pan. Place the dough in the preheated skillet, pushing the edge of the dough up the sides of the pan. Be very careful not to burn your fingers!
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Brush the top of the dough with olive oil.
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Add tomato sauce, spreading it in an even layer on top of the dough, leaving a small border around the edge for the crust. Top with mozzarella cheese.
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Scatter shallots and pepperoni on top.
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Place the skillet back in the oven for 13 to 15 minutes, until golden brown on the edges and the cheese is melted.
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Remove from oven. Top with chili crisp and fresh basil. Add dollops of whipped ricotta, if using. Drizzle with hot honey, if desired. Slice and serve.
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Notes
- Cool to room temp, then wrap slices in foil and store in an airtight container or resealable bag for up to 3 to 4 days in the fridge.
- Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 8 to 10 minutes on a sheet pan or in the microwave in 30-second bursts until warmed through.
- Freeze individual slices on a baking sheet until firm. Wrap them in a layer of plastic wrap, then foil, and store in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for 1 to 2 months. Reheat from frozen on a baking sheet at 400°F for 15-20 minutes.
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