Skillet Pepperoni Pizza with Hot Honey and Blue Cheese.

There’s something undeniably comforting about pizza, especially when it’s homemade. And when it’s prepared in a skillet, the crust gets that perfect crispy edge while remaining soft and chewy in the center. This Skillet Pepperoni Pizza with Hot Honey and Blue Cheese takes your typical pizza night to new heights. The combination of spicy pepperoni, tangy blue cheese, and a drizzle of hot honey creates a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of this Skillet Pepperoni Pizza with Hot Honey and Blue Cheese lies in its simplicity and the use of high-quality ingredients. The active dry yeast gives the dough a light and airy texture, while the honey adds a touch of sweetness that balances beautifully with the savory toppings. Cooking the pizza in a skillet allows for a crispy crust that’s hard to achieve in a conventional oven. Plus, the hot honey drizzled on top provides a unique flavor contrast that takes this dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

Ingredient Notes

• Warm Water: About 110°F is ideal for activating the yeast.
• Active Dry Yeast: This helps the dough rise and become fluffy.
• Honey: Adds a hint of sweetness to the dough and enhances the overall flavor.
• Olive Oil: Provides richness to the dough and helps in cooking.
• All-Purpose Flour: The main ingredient for the pizza dough; it gives the crust its structure.
• Salt: Enhances the flavor of the dough.
• Marinara Sauce: A classic base for any pizza; opt for your favorite jar or homemade sauce.
• Freshly Grated Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds that classic cheesy pull.
• Pepperoni Slices: The star of the show! Choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor.
• Crumble Blue Cheese: For a tangy twist that complements the pepperoni.
• Parmesan Cheese: For an extra layer of flavor; sprinkle on top before serving.
• Hot Honey: Drizzle it on top for a sweet and spicy finish.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Skillet: A cast-iron skillet is preferred for even cooking and crisping.
• Mixing Bowls: For combining the dough ingredients.
• Wooden Spoon or Dough Scraper: To mix and knead the dough.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Oven Mitts: Essential for safely handling the hot skillet.
• Grater: For grating mozzarella and parmesan cheese.

From Start to Finish: Skillet Pepperoni Pizza with Hot Honey and Blue Cheese.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water, 3 teaspoons of active dry yeast, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means the yeast is activated and ready to go!

Step 2: Make the Pizza Dough

Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour until it pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Form it into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, covering it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 4: Preheat the Skillet

While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place your skillet on the stovetop over medium heat with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Allow it to heat up while you prepare the toppings.

Step 5: Shape the Pizza

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out to your desired thickness, then carefully transfer it to the hot skillet. Make sure to press the dough to the edges of the skillet for an even crust.

Step 6: Add the Toppings

Spread a generous amount of marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle 1 cup of freshly grated mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce, then layer on 10 to 12 slices of pepperoni. Finish with 1/2 cup of crumbled blue cheese and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.

Step 7: Bake the Pizza

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the crust is crispy.

Step 8: Add the Hot Honey

Once the pizza is out of the oven, drizzle hot honey generously over the top. This adds a sweet and spicy kick that pairs perfectly with the savory toppings.

Step 9: Slice and Serve

Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it hot, and watch how quickly it disappears!

How to Make It Lighter

• Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
• Opt for a reduced-fat cheese to lower the calorie content.
• Limit the amount of pepperoni and add more veggies like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms.
• Use less honey or substitute with a sugar-free alternative.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

When making Skillet Pepperoni Pizza with Hot Honey and Blue Cheese, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Don’t rush the yeast activation; it’s crucial for a good rise!
• Be careful not to over-knead the dough, as it can become tough.
• Make sure your skillet is adequately preheated to achieve that crispy crust.
• Don’t overload the pizza with toppings, which can lead to a soggy crust.

Save It for Later

If you have leftovers (though they might be hard to resist!), store the pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results, ensuring the crust remains crispy. Alternatively, you can freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy again!

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use store-bought dough for this recipe?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, using store-bought dough is a great alternative. Just follow the package instructions for preparation and baking time.

What type of skillet should I use?

A cast-iron skillet is ideal as it retains heat well and creates a beautifully crispy crust. However, any oven-safe skillet will work.

Can I customize the toppings?

Yes! Feel free to switch out the pepperoni for your favorite toppings like sausage, vegetables, or even different types of cheese.

How do I make it spicy?

In addition to hot honey, consider adding sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the pizza before baking for an extra kick!

Serve with These

• Simple Garden Salad – A fresh side to complement the rich flavors of the pizza.
• Creamy Garlic Sauce – A perfect dip for crusts or a drizzle on top.
• Vegan Roasted Red Pepper Dip – A flavorful spread for a snack.
• Healthy Homemade Lemonade – A refreshing drink to wash it all down.

Serve & Enjoy

Now that you have your Skillet Pepperoni Pizza with Hot Honey and Blue Cheese ready, gather your friends or family around the table, slice up that masterpiece, and enjoy every gooey, spicy, and sweet bite! This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s about bringing people together, creating memories, and indulging in the simple pleasures of life. Happy cooking!