Little Caesars Pepperoni Pizza Recipe

Name: Little Caesars Pepperoni Pizza Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 5 tablespoons double-strength tomato paste; 1 tablespoon McCormick Italian herb seasoning grinder; 1 teaspoon granulated sugar; A splash of water to achieve desired sauce consistency; Optional: 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat; 1 1/4 teaspoons active dry or fresh yeast; 1 teaspoon natural honey; 1/2 cup warm water (between 105°F and 115°F); 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt; 1/2 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil; Approximately 20 slices of pepperoni; 2 cups whole-milk mozzarella cheese; Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

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Few culinary combos can rival the classic pairing of pizza and beer. If you’re looking for something to wash down your slice of Little Caesars pepperoni pizza, consider a crisp lager or a hoppy IPA.

The slight bitterness of these beers balances the rich, cheesy goodness. Alternatively, a refreshing soda complements the spiciness of the pepperoni. Don’t forget about salad! A light side salad offers a nice crunch and balances the flavors well.

You can even get creative with finger foods. Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks make for delightful companions, enhancing the experience without overshadowing the main attraction.

Let’s dive into the pizza itself!

Best Little Caesars Pepperoni Pizza Recipe

I remember the first time I took a heavenly bite of a Little Caesars pepperoni pizza. The crispy crust, savory sauce, and abundant pepperoni were just what I needed on a busy night. While we all love ordering from our favorite pizza joint, have you ever wanted to recreate that experience at home? Whether you’re looking to save some cash or just indulge in a DIY pizza night, I’ve got you covered.

This article goes beyond just what makes Little Caesars’ pepperoni pizza a household favorite. We’ll explore why this recipe works, outline the ingredients you’ll need, and provide a thorough step-by-step guide for making your own stunning pizza.

Table of Contents

What Is Little Caesars Pepperoni Pizza?

Little Caesars pepperoni pizza is a classic American pizza, known for its simple yet delicious combination of a crispy crust, tangy pizza sauce, gooey mozzarella cheese, and, of course, pepperoni. It’s the kind of pizza you can rely on for lunch, dinner, or a midnight snack.

What makes it exceptional?

The crust is incredibly satisfying; it’s not too thick and not too thin. The sauce has a distinct flavor that isn’t too overpowering and perfectly balances the cheese and toppings. And the pepperoni?

It’s a pepperoni lover’s dream, perfectly spiced and generously distributed over the top.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe for Little Caesars pepperoni pizza works because it captures the essence of what makes the original so beloved. The dough has a perfect texture thanks to the right mix of ingredients, producing that satisfying crunch.

The sauce, made from double-strength tomato paste and Italian herbs, brings all the flavors together, creating a delightful blend.

Using whole-milk mozzarella ensures the cheese melts beautifully and offers a rich flavor. The abundance of pepperoni provides that classic, meaty bite we crave.

What You’ll Need to Make This Dish

Before we hit the kitchen, let’s gather our ingredients:

Pizza Sauce

5 tablespoons double-strength tomato paste
1 tablespoon McCormick Italian herb seasoning grinder
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
A splash of water to achieve desired sauce consistency
Optional: 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat

Pizza Dough

1 1/4 teaspoons active dry or fresh yeast
1 teaspoon natural honey
1/2 cup warm water (between 105°F and 115°F)
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
1/2 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

Toppings

Approximately 20 slices of pepperoni
2 cups whole-milk mozzarella cheese
Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

How to Make Little Caesars Pepperoni Pizza

Ready to get cooking? Here’s a short introduction. This recipe involves making a simple pizza dough, preparing a quick sauce, and building your pizza. Sounds fun, right? Let’s break it down step by step.

Step 1: Prepare the Pizza Dough

To start, let’s activate the yeast. In a small bowl, mix the warm water and honey, then sprinkle in the yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it’s frothy. This ensures the yeast is alive and ready to help our dough rise.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a larger mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Mix well. Once the yeast has bubbled up, add it, along with the olive oil, to the dry ingredients.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the mixture onto a floured surface. Start kneading! You want to work that dough until it’s smooth and elastic, usually around 8-10 minutes.

Step 4: Let It Rise

Put the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour. You want it to double in size.

Step 5: Make the Pizza Sauce

While your dough is rising, mix the tomato paste, Italian herb seasoning, sugar, and a splash of water in a medium bowl. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in red pepper flakes for added kick. Stir until well combined.

Step 6: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place that in the oven to heat up as well.

Step 7: Roll Out the Dough

Once your dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface into your desired shape—round or rectangular!

Step 8: Assemble Your Pizza

Place the rolled-out dough onto a greased pizza pan or a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread a generous amount of sauce over the crust. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, then add lauded slices of pepperoni.

Step 9: Bake Your Pizza

Slide that beauty into your preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden brown.

Step 10: Garnish and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, sprinkle some fresh Parmigiano-Reggiano on top, add fresh basil leaves, and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.

Tips for Making the Best Pizza

Use High-Quality Ingredients: The flavor shines through. Invest in good cheese and quality tomato products.
Don’t Overload on Toppings: Keep a balance. Too many toppings can make your pizza soggy.
Let Your Dough Rise: Don’t rush this step. The yeast needs time to work for that fluffy texture.
Preheat the Pan: If using a pizza stone, give it enough time to heat. This ensures a crispy bottom.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add your favorite spices or toppings for a unique twist!

Easy Little Caesars Pepperoni Pizza Recipe

How to Store Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, storing them is easy. Wrap slices in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze pizza slices for up to two months! Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Nutrition Information

little caesars pepperoni pizza recipe nutrition facts

How Would I Recommend Serving Little Caesars Pepperoni Pizza?

Here are a few fun ways to enjoy your pizza:

With a Side Salad: A refreshing salad balances the cheesy richness. A simple mixed greens salad with balsamic vinaigrette does the trick.
Dipped in Ranch: Ranch dressing pairs excellently with pepperoni. The creaminess is a delightful contrast.
With Garlic Bread: Garlic bread adds an extra touch. Here’s a tip: don’t forget to add some parsley for that restaurant-style feel.
On a Picnic: Take slices to your favorite park. A delightful pizza picnic can elevate your outdoor experience.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If Not Available?

Sometimes, it happens, and that’s okay! Here are some great substitutes:

Tomato Paste: Marinara sauce can work in a pinch. Just remember it might be a bit saucier.
Whole-Milk Mozzarella: Part-skim mozzarella will work but may yield less creaminess.
Active Dry Yeast: If you don’t have it, instant yeast can be used. Just skip the activation step.
All-Purpose Flour: Bread flour can give a chewier texture.