Get ready to transform your pizza night from ordinary to extraordinary with this mouthwatering Mexican-inspired carnitas pizza! Imagine a crispy, golden crust loaded with tender, succulent carnitas, melted cheddar cheese, and a vibrant burst of fresh cilantro that will transport your senses straight to culinary paradise. This isn't just another pizza recipe - it's a flavor adventure that combines the best of Mexican street food with classic pizza perfection.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pizza dough
- 2 cups carnitas, shredded
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup red onion, sliced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup salsa
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). This high temperature will help achieve a crispy pizza crust.
- While the oven is preheating, prepare your pizza dough. If using store-bought dough, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to make it easier to stretch.
- On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a 12-inch circle. Transfer the rolled-out dough to a pizza stone or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spread the salsa evenly over the surface of the pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.
- Evenly distribute the shredded carnitas over the salsa, ensuring that every bite will have a taste of the flavorful meat.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the carnitas, covering them completely for a gooey, cheesy texture.
- Scatter the sliced red onion over the cheese. The onions will add a nice crunch and a hint of sweetness as they cook.
- Carefully place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Once the pizza is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. This will make it easier to slice.
- Before serving, sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the top for a fresh, herbal finish.
- Slice the pizza into 8 equal pieces and serve hot with extra salsa on the side if desired.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 475°F for that perfect crispy crust.
- Dough Preparation: Let store-bought pizza dough rest at room temperature for easier stretching.
- Cheese Distribution: Cover the carnitas completely with cheese for maximum melty goodness.
- Fresh Finish: Add cilantro after baking to preserve its bright, fresh flavor.
- Salsa Hack: Use a slotted spoon when spreading salsa to prevent a soggy crust.
- Cooking Surface: A pizza stone can help achieve a crispier bottom, but a baking sheet works great too.
- Resting Time: Let the pizza cool for 2-3 minutes after baking for easier slicing and serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 75mg
