Homemade Carnivore Pizza

Calling all carnivores and pizza lovers alike! Are you tired of the same old cheese and pepperoni pizza combinations? If so, it’s time to take your taste buds on a wild adventure with our carnivore’s delight pizza recipe. This scrumptious recipe brings together a mouth-watering assortment of meats, including savory Italian sausage, crispy bacon, and tender ground beef, atop a bed of gooey, melted cheese and zesty marinara sauce. As an added bonus, this dish also pays tribute to the culinary heritage of Italy, where pizza was first invented – just imagine the Colosseum and the Leaning Tower of Pisa as you indulge in each delicious bite!

This carnivore’s dream pizza is not only a fantastic way to treat yourself, but it’s also perfect for sharing with friends and family at your next gathering. So let’s get cooking, shall we? The recipe is simple to follow and will have even the most novice chefs whipping up a pizza masterpiece in no time. Trust us, your taste buds will be dancing in delight after just one bite of this meat-lover’s paradise. So go ahead, unleash your inner carnivore and let’s dive into the world of pizza perfection!

Yield & Servings

One 12-inch pizza, serves 2-4 people

Ingredients

1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
½ cup pizza sauce
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup pepperoni slices
½ cup cooked and crumbled Italian sausage
½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
½ cup diced ham
Optional: ¼ cup sliced red onion, ¼ cup sliced bell pepper, ¼ cup sliced mushrooms

Notable Equipment & Tools

Pizza stone or baking sheet
Parchment paper
Rolling pin
Pizza cutter

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients

All ingredients ready? Let’s begin! Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat as well.

Step 2: Roll Out Pizza Dough into a 12-Inch Circle

Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface or parchment paper to form a 12-inch circle, about 1/4-inch thick.

Step 3: Transfer Dough to Pizza Stone or Baking Sheet

If using a pizza stone, carefully transfer the rolled-out dough to the preheated stone using a pizza peel or the back of a baking sheet. If using a baking sheet, transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Spread Pizza Sauce

Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.

Step 5: Evenly Sprinkle Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.

Step 6: Layer Pepperoni, Sausage, Bacon, and Ham (Add Optional Toppings)

Evenly distribute the pepperoni slices, cooked Italian sausage, cooked bacon, and diced ham over the cheese. If desired, add any optional toppings like red onion, bell pepper, or mushrooms.

Step 7: Slice and Savor Your Homemade Carnivore Pizza

Transfer the pizza to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing with a pizza cutter. Enjoy your delicious carnivore pizza!

Substitutions & Alternatives

Let’s face it, sometimes life throws us curveballs in the kitchen, but fear not, pizza-loving friends! We’ve got some scrumptious substitutions and alternatives to help you create your carnivore pizza masterpiece, even if you’re missing an ingredient or two.

1. Pizza Dough: Can’t find pizza dough or don’t have time to make it? No problemo! Grab a pre-made pizza crust, flatbread, or even a large flour tortilla to save the day. With these options, your carnivore pizza will still have that crispy crust we all crave.

2. Pizza Sauce: If you find yourself sauce-less, fear not! You can use marinara sauce, ketchup (trust us, it works), or even a blend of tomato paste and water with a pinch of Italian seasoning.

3. Mozzarella Cheese: Missing mozzarella? Don’t fret! You can substitute other melty cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or provolone. Feeling extra adventurous? Try smoked gouda for a flavor-packed twist.

4. Meaty Toppings: Can’t find or don’t have all the meats listed? You can swap out any of the meats for other deli favorites like salami, prosciutto, or even cooked and crumbled ground beef. Or, simply double up on your favorite meaty topping for a double dose of deliciousness.

5. Veggie Optional Toppings: Want to add a little green to your carnivore pizza? Go ahead and toss on some sliced jalapenos, olives, or even arugula for a peppery kick!

Ultimately, creating a carnivore pizza is all about celebrating the meaty goodness and customizing it to suit your taste buds. So, feel free to experiment with different combinations and substitutions to make your carnivore pizza a mouthwatering masterpiece. After all, variety is the spice of life – and the key to a perfect pizza!

Storage & Reheating

Now, let’s talk about the inevitable moment when you realize that you’ve made enough pizza to feed a small army, or perhaps just a really hungry family of four. Fret not, fellow pizza enthusiasts! Storing and reheating your carnivore pizza is a piece of, well, pizza!

For storage, allow your pizza to cool completely (no one likes soggy crust). Once it’s cooled, you can either stack the slices in an airtight container (use wax paper or parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking) or wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Whichever method you choose, your pizza will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, although we all know it probably won’t last that long!

When it comes to reheating your scrumptious leftovers, resist the urge to just toss them in the microwave. Sure, it’s quick, but it can result in a sad, rubbery slice that’s a mere shadow of its former glory. Instead, opt for one of these methods that’ll have your leftovers tasting just as delicious as they did the first time around:

1. Reheat on the stovetop: Place a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and add your pizza slice, crust side down. Cover with a lid and let it warm for about 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy. This method is particularly effective at maintaining that perfect balance of gooey cheese and crunchy crust.

2. Reheat in the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pizza slices directly on the oven rack, or on a parchment-lined baking sheet if you prefer a less daring approach. Heat for about 5-8 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy.

Whichever method you choose, remember to keep a watchful eye on your pizza to avoid turning it into a charred relic of its former self. And there you have it! You’re now equipped with the knowledge to store and reheat your carnivore pizza, ensuring that every slice is as delectable as the last. So go forth, and continue your pizza-eating adventures!

Serving Ideas

Now that you’ve expertly crafted this mouthwatering, meat-loaded pizza, let’s talk about how to serve it up in style while paying homage to its global culinary roots and adding a touch of whimsy!

1. Slice and Dice: Who says pizza has to be served in traditional triangular slices? Channel your inner culinary creative and cut your carnivore pizza into squares, rectangles, or even funky shapes like hexagons! A little geometry never hurt anyone, right? Remember, as Leonardo da Vinci once said, Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication – and that applies to pizza slices too!

2. Global Gastronomy: As a nod to pizza’s Italian origins, why not serve your carnivore masterpiece alongside some tempting Mediterranean-inspired appetizers? Think marinated olives, bruschetta, and a refreshing caprese salad. You could also pair it with a delicious Caesar salad, which was actually invented in Mexico! Now that’s what we call a global celebration of flavors!

3. DIY Dip Zone: Create a mini dip station for your carnivore pizza feast by offering a selection of dipping sauces to drizzle or dunk in. You can’t go wrong with some classic marinara sauce, but why not think outside the pizza box and offer a tangy barbecue sauce, zesty ranch dressing, or even a spicy Sriracha-infused mayo? Talk about a flavor-packed party in your mouth!

4. Balance the Beast: While this carnivore pizza is undoubtedly a meat lover’s dream, it’s always a good idea to balance out the meal with some veggies. Make it fun by offering a build-your-own salad bar or create a colorful crudité platter with a variety of fresh, crunchy veggies and your choice of dips. Remember, the more colors on your plate, the more nutrients you’re getting!

5. Thirst Quenchers: Complete your carnivore pizza feast with some refreshing beverages! Offer a selection of Italian sodas, sparkling water, or even a crisp, cold beer to complement the rich flavors of your meat-tastic pizza. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving a refreshing homemade lemonade or fruit-infused water. Cheers to that!

Now you’re armed with some fun, creative, and delicious serving ideas for your carnivore pizza – it’s time to gather your fellow meat enthusiasts and dig in! Mangia, mangia!

Variations & Customization 

Do you have dietary restrictions or follow a specific diet? No need to worry! Making a delicious carnivore pizza that suits your needs is as easy as pie (pun intended). Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, GAPS/AIP, keto, or simply looking to switch things up, we’ve got you covered.

Vegan: Believe it or not, a carnivore pizza can be veganized. Swap out the meat toppings for plant-based alternatives like vegan pepperoni, sausage, and bacon. And, of course, use a vegan cheese instead of mozzarella. You could even make a vegan parmesan cheese by blending cashews, nutritional yeast, and some seasoning. Vegans, assemble! Your pizza night just got a whole lot better.

Gluten-Free: All you need is a simple dough swap. Use your favorite gluten-free pizza dough recipe, or purchase a ready-made gluten-free dough from the store. Just be sure to check the packaging for any hidden gluten ingredients. Pizza party, anyone?

GAPS/AIP: For those on the GAPS or AIP diet, ditch the traditional pizza dough and make a cauliflower crust. You’ll need to pre-cook the crust before adding your toppings, so it holds up well. Choose GAPS/AIP-friendly toppings like shredded chicken, cooked ground turkey, or thinly sliced steak. Pro tip: You can make a GAPS/AIP-friendly sauce by blending cooked and peeled zucchini or squash with herbs and garlic.

Keto: To make your pizza keto-friendly, opt for a low-carb crust like almond flour, coconut flour, or even a cheese-based crust (hello, cheese lovers!). Choose toppings that are high in healthy fats and proteins, like avocado, chicken, and nitrate-free bacon or sausage. You can also use a keto-friendly sauce like sugar-free marinara or homemade alfredo sauce.

Other Popular Variations: If you just want to mix things up, try swapping traditional pizza sauce for BBQ sauce, pesto, or even a creamy garlic sauce. You could also experiment with different cheeses like smoked gouda, Swiss, or blue cheese. Want to add a touch of sweetness? Drizzle your pizza with some honey or balsamic glaze after baking.

Whatever your dietary restrictions or preferences, there’s a carnivore pizza variation out there waiting for you to discover. Flex your creative muscles and find the perfect pie to satisfy your cravings. Happy pizza-making!

Notes & Tips

• Achieving the perfect crust: Make sure to preheat your pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven to achieve a crisp and nicely browned crust. A hot surface will help the dough cook evenly and give you that desired pizzeria-style crust!
• The case of the disappearing toppings: If you find that your toppings are sinking into the cheese while baking, try lightly cooking them beforehand (except for pepperoni). Pre-cooking will remove some of the excess moisture, allowing your toppings to stay on top like the kings and queens they are!
• Want even more flavor? Try brushing the crust edges with a mixture of melted butter, a dash of garlic powder, and Italian seasoning before baking. This simple step will add a lovely flavor boost to your pizza, making every slice pure bliss.
• Switch it up! While this carnivore pizza is loaded with meaty goodness, don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings. Explore global culinary traditions by adding a Mediterranean twist with some crumbled feta cheese and kalamata olives, or go Hawaiian with some pineapple chunks and jalapenos for a sweet and spicy kick.
• Time-saving tip: If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought pizza dough or even a pre-baked pizza crust. However, if you want to take your pizza game to the next level, try making your dough from scratch. Not only is it fun, but it also gives you complete control over the flavor and texture of your crust.
• Keep an eye on your pie: Ovens can be temperamental, so make sure you’re keeping a close eye on your pizza as it bakes. If you notice one side is browning faster than the other, give it a quick spin to ensure even baking.
• Cutting conundrum: To make slicing your pizza a breeze, invest in a good quality pizza cutter. Trust us, it’s a small investment that will pay off in perfectly sliced pizza every time – no more uneven or squished slices!
• The science of cheese: For the perfect pizza cheese, use low-moisture mozzarella. This type of cheese has less water content, which means it will melt more evenly and won’t release excess moisture onto your pizza, keeping your crust crispy and delicious!

Common Mistakes

1. Overloading the toppings: Though it may be tempting to pile on all your favorite meats, doing so can result in a soggy pizza. Stick to the 1/2 cup portions mentioned for each protein and limit optional veggie toppings to avoid a heavy, undercooked crust.

2. Skipping the preheating step: Preheating your oven and pizza stone (if using) is crucial to achieving a crispy crust. Remember, great pizza depends on that perfect balance between a crispy crust and melty toppings!

3. Rolling the dough too thin or too thick: Aim for the Goldilocks-approved 1/4-inch thickness, which allows the crust to cook evenly while still providing a sturdy base for your meaty toppings.

4. Uneven distribution of toppings: Make sure to spread your toppings evenly across the pizza so that every bite is a perfect harmony of flavors. No one wants to bite into a slice that’s all cheese and no meat (or vice versa).

5. Rushing the cooling process: Allow your pizza to cool for a few minutes before cutting into it. This not only prevents burns to your mouth but also helps the cheese set, ensuring perfect slices every time.

6. Neglecting the pizza stone: If you have a pizza stone, use it! The stone’s ability to absorb moisture and maintain a consistent temperature will give you a crispier crust. Just remember to preheat it with your oven.

7. Ignoring the parchment paper: This kitchen staple is a pizza-maker’s best friend. It not only ensures easy transfer of your rolled-out dough but also makes for a quick and painless cleanup. Trust us, your future self will thank you.

Now that you’re armed with these tips, go forth and conquer the carnivore pizza world. Happy cooking!

Health Risks & Benefits

Oh, carnivore pizza, you meaty masterpiece! While this pizza is no doubt a scrumptious indulgence, it’s essential to acknowledge its nutritional aspects. Let’s do a quick rundown of the health risks and benefits of this deliciously meaty creation.

First off, we have the undeniable star of the show: the proteins! With a glorious mix of pepperoni, Italian sausage, bacon, and ham, your muscles will thank you for the protein-packed meal. Research has shown that consuming protein helps maintain muscle mass and can support weight loss efforts, too – so go ahead, flex those biceps!

However, before you get too carried away with the meaty goodness, remember that moderation is key. Consuming excessive amounts of processed meats can lead to increased risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer. So, while this pizza might be an occasional treat, don’t make it an everyday affair.

Now, let’s talk about the veggies. Yes, they may seem like the supporting cast in this epic production, but their presence does make a difference! Red onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms are chock-full of vitamins and minerals, providing your body with an essential boost of nutrients. Plus, they add a delightful pop of color to the otherwise meat-dominated landscape.

Finally, the cheese. Ah, glorious, gooey mozzarella. A source of calcium and protein, it contributes to strong bones and teeth. Just remember – moderation is key! Too much saturated fat from cheese can increase your risk of heart disease.

In conclusion, enjoy your carnivore pizza as a delicious treat, and maybe even throw in a side salad to balance it out. As with any indulgence, it’s all about finding that perfect balance between taste and nutrition.

Recipe History & Context

Picture this: you’re at a bustling Italian pizzeria in the heart of Naples, the birthplace of pizza! Surrounded by the savory scents of fresh dough, rich tomato sauce, and melting cheese, you might be surprised to learn that the ancestor of our beloved meat-loaded carnivore pizza didn’t originally have any meat on it at all. That’s right, the classic Margherita pizza, with its simple trio of ingredients – tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil – was created in honor of Queen Margherita of Savoy back in 1889. Little did she know that her royal pizza would later inspire countless variations around the world!

Fast forward to modern-day America, a nation renowned for taking traditional dishes and adding a hearty twist. The carnivore pizza, also known as the meat lover’s pizza, emerged as a response to the growing demand for hearty, protein-packed pies. Packed with a scrumptious combination of pepperoni, sausage, bacon, and ham, this pizza is a carnivorous dream come true.

But wait, there’s more! Our carnivore pizza, unlike its Italian counterpart, is a customizable culinary canvas. Feel free to toss on some optional toppings like red onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to add a touch of color and flavor, making it a true American melting pot of ingredients. No matter how you slice it, the carnivore pizza has earned its place among the pantheon of pizza greats.

As you prepare to indulge in this deliciously meaty masterpiece, take a moment to appreciate the journey it took from the royal courts of Italy to the bustling pizzerias of America. With every bite, you’re not only savoring the amazing flavors of this protein-packed pie but also celebrating the global culinary heritage that brought it to life. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s make history together with this all-time favorite carnivore pizza!

Common Questions

---

Recent Recipes