Epic Roasted Garlic Pizza

Bold garlic flavor, gooey cheese, fresh herbs, and hot honey make this Epic Roasted Garlic Pizza a must-try for pizza night. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe delivers a delightful combination of flavors that will impress everyone. The standout feature is the rich roasted garlic that elevates the pizza to new heights, making it suitable for various occasions—from casual gatherings to special celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The roasted garlic brings out an amazing depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with gooey cheese.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be enjoying homemade pizza in no time.
• Customizable Options: You can easily add your favorite proteins or veggies to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for family dinners, parties, or a fun night in with friends.
• Delightful Toppings: Fresh herbs and a drizzle of hot honey or balsamic glaze take this pizza over the top.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Epic Roasted Garlic Pizza, gather your tools and prepare your workspace for an enjoyable cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pizza stone
• Pizza peel
• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Pizza Stone: This tool helps create a perfectly crispy crust by distributing heat evenly.
• Pizza Peel: A must-have for transferring the pizza into and out of the oven without fuss.
• Small Saucepan: Ideal for making your creamy garlic sauce smoothly without any lumps.

Ingredients

Bold garlic flavor, gooey cheese, fresh herbs and hot honey, this roasted garlic pizza is a GO-TO for pizza night!

For the Roasted Garlic

• 3 heads garlic
• 1-2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and black pepper

For the Garlic Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup whole milk
• ½ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 2 heads roasted garlic, cloves squeezed out and smashed into a paste
• ½ teaspoon each salt and pepper

For the Pizza Base

• 1 ball pizza dough (16oz)
• Semolina, for sprinkling on pizza peel

For Toppings

• 8oz provolone cheese, freshly grated
• 4oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 1 head roasted garlic, cloves squeezed out
• Protein of choice (optional): shredded chicken, Italian sausage, etc.

For Serving

• Fresh thyme leaves
• Fresh basil leaves
• Hot honey
• Balsamic glaze
• Red pepper flakes

How to Make Epic Roasted Garlic Pizza

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Slice the tops off the garlic heads to expose most of the cloves. Drizzle olive oil over them while rotating to ensure it seeps into all crevices. Sprinkle with salt and pepper before wrapping each head in aluminum foil. Bake directly in the oven for about 50–60 minutes until deeply golden brown. Allow them to cool once done.

Step 2: Prepare Garlic Paste

Squeeze two heads’ worth of roasted garlic cloves into a bowl and smash them into a paste. For the third head, carefully remove the cloves intact for topping later.

Step 3: Make The Garlic Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter until sizzling. Add flour and whisk continuously for one minute. Reduce heat to medium-low. Gradually whisk in milk while constantly stirring until it simmers—about 1–2 minutes—until thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and add roasted garlic paste along with parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.

Step 4: Prepare The Dough

Increase oven temperature to 450 degrees Fahrenheit while placing a pizza stone on the center rack to preheat it as well. On a lightly floured surface, roll out your dough into a round shape or toss it if you’re feeling adventurous!

Step 5: Assemble Your Pizza

Sprinkle semolina flour on your pizza peel. Lay out the dough near its edge for easier transfer later. Use a spoon or spatula to spread an even layer of garlic sauce over the base. If desired, add your protein choice now followed by provolone cheese and pieces of fresh mozzarella evenly distributed across the pizza. Nestle roasted garlic cloves throughout.

Step 6: Bake The Pizza

With care, transfer your assembled pizza onto the preheated stone in your oven using the peel. Ensure enough semolina flour is underneath so it slides off easily—use swift motion while doing this! Bake for about 14–15 minutes until crust is golden brown and cheese is bubbling.

Step 7: Finish And Serve

Once baked perfectly, sprinkle fresh thyme leaves and basil over top. Drizzle with hot honey or balsamic glaze according to preference along with red pepper flakes if you like some heat!

Enjoy every slice of this delicious creation!

How to Serve Epic Roasted Garlic Pizza

This Epic Roasted Garlic Pizza is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your pizza night experience.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Garden Salad: A light mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed with olive oil and lemon juice complements the rich flavors of the pizza.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy dressing and croutons provides a crunchy contrast to the soft pizza.

Add Flavorful Dips

• Spicy Marinara Sauce: A zesty marinara dip brings an extra kick to each slice of pizza.
• Creamy Ranch Dressing: This classic dip adds a cool, creamy element that balances the bold garlic flavor.

Include Savory Appetizers

• Stuffed Mushrooms: Baked mushrooms filled with herbs and cheese make for a perfect starter that matches well with the pizza.
• Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic offers a refreshing bite before digging into the main dish.

How to Perfect Epic Roasted Garlic Pizza

Making the perfect Epic Roasted Garlic Pizza requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your pizza turns out just right.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and high-quality cheeses to enhance the overall flavor.
• Preheat Your Oven Properly: Ensuring your oven reaches the right temperature before baking is crucial for a crispy crust.
• Don’t Overload Toppings: Too many toppings can weigh down the dough. Keep it simple to maintain balance.
• Experiment with Herbs: Adding different herbs like oregano or rosemary can provide additional layers of flavor.
• Let Dough Rest: Allowing your pizza dough to rest helps it stretch more easily without tearing.

Best Side Dishes for Epic Roasted Garlic Pizza

A well-rounded meal often includes sides that complement the main dish. Here are some great options to serve alongside your Epic Roasted Garlic Pizza.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic option that echoes the pizza’s garlic flavor. Bake until golden brown for extra crunch.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil add color and nutrition to your meal.
4. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, marinated artichokes, and roasted peppers pairs wonderfully with pizza.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy wedges seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side that kids love too.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and brightness, balancing the richness of the pizza.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Epic Roasted Garlic Pizza can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Preheating your oven properly is vital. A temperature that’s too low will result in a soggy crust. Always preheat to 450°F for perfect pizza.
• Overloading Toppings: While it’s tempting to pile on toppings, too many can make the pizza heavy and difficult to cook evenly. Stick to a balanced amount for optimal flavor and texture.
• Not Using Enough Flour: Failing to flour your work surface can lead to dough sticking. Dust lightly with flour or semolina to keep the dough manageable while shaping.
• Skipping the Resting Time: If you rush the dough without letting it rest, it may be tough and hard to stretch. Allowing it to rest improves elasticity and ease of handling.
• Ignoring the Garlic Paste: The roasted garlic paste is key for flavor. Don’t skip this step; it adds a delicious depth that enhances the overall taste of your pizza.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pizza in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Epic Roasted Garlic Pizza

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Frozen pizza can last up to 2 months without losing quality.

Reheating Epic Roasted Garlic Pizza

• Oven: For best results, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, though this may make the crust less crispy.
• Stovetop: Place pizza slices in a skillet over medium heat, cover with a lid, and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Epic Roasted Garlic Pizza.

How do I make gluten-free Epic Roasted Garlic Pizza?

You can use gluten-free pizza dough available at most grocery stores. Follow the same instructions with your gluten-free base!

What can I use instead of provolone cheese?

You can substitute provolone with gouda or mozzarella cheese if you prefer different flavors or textures.

Can I add vegetables to my Epic Roasted Garlic Pizza?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I store leftover Epic Roasted Garlic Pizza?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

The Epic Roasted Garlic Pizza is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can customize it with various proteins and toppings to fit your preferences. Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, this pizza is sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try and explore different combinations!