Zesty Pepperoni Pizza from Donatos Pizza features a golden, thin crust topped with tangy tomato sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and generous layers of spicy, crisp pepperoni slices, delivering a bold and satisfying flavor with every bite.
Equipments
- Pizza oven
- Pizza peel
- Dough roller or rolling pin
- Mixing bowls
- Sauce ladle
- Cheese grater
- Chef’s knife or pizza cutter
- Baking sheet or pizza pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) pizza dough
- 1 cup tomato pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 6 oz (170g) sliced pepperoni
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Ensure your pizza dough is fresh or properly thawed for optimal texture in your Zesty Pepperoni Pizza. Use high-quality shredded mozzarella for a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth topping. Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level to tailor your pizza's bold flavor. When spreading tomato pizza sauce, be careful not to overload the crust to avoid sogginess. Your homemade Zesty Pepperoni Pizza from Donatos Pizza will capture the iconic taste with these ingredient tips in mind.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat pizza oven to 475°F (245°C) or home oven to highest setting.
- Lightly oil pizza pan or baking sheet with olive oil.
- On a floured surface, roll out pizza dough to desired thinness using dough roller.
- Transfer rolled dough to prepared pan or pizza peel.
- Evenly spread tomato pizza sauce over dough with sauce ladle.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over sauce.
- Arrange sliced pepperoni over cheese in a single layer.
- Sprinkle oregano, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, and black pepper on top.
- Drizzle a little olive oil over assembled pizza.
- Carefully transfer pizza to oven using pizza peel.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
- Remove pizza from oven and let cool slightly.
- Transfer to cutting board and slice with pizza cutter or chef’s knife.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
When making a copycat version of Donatos Pizza's Zesty Pepperoni Pizza, you can substitute the traditional thin crust with a pre-made thin crust from the store to save time. If fresh pepperoni is unavailable, any spicy cured sausage or turkey pepperoni can maintain the signature bold flavor. Mozzarella cheese can be replaced with a blend of mozzarella and provolone to add a creamy texture while keeping the taste authentic. Use dried oregano and crushed red pepper flakes generously to replicate the zesty seasoning that defines this pizza's flavor. You should brush the crust with olive oil before baking to achieve a golden, crisp finish similar to the original.
Tips
When rolling out the dough, make sure your surface is well floured to prevent sticking and maintain a thin, even crust for optimal crispiness. Use a pizza peel or a carefully floured baking sheet to transfer the pizza to the oven to avoid deforming the shape or toppings. Keep an eye on the pizza during the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning, as ovens vary in heat distribution. Your zesty pepperoni pizza will have the best flavor and texture when served hot and fresh right after baking.
Nutritions
Zesty Pepperoni Pizza provides a balanced mix of macronutrients, with mozzarella cheese contributing high-quality protein and calcium, while pepperoni adds flavorful protein and fat. The thin pizza dough offers carbohydrates essential for energy, and the olive oil enhances heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Tomato sauce delivers vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants like lycopene, supporting immune health. Your choice of seasoning, including oregano and garlic powder, adds trace nutrients and antioxidants, boosting both flavor and nutrition.
Storage
Store leftover Zesty Pepperoni Pizza in an airtight container or tightly wrapped with aluminum foil to maintain freshness. Refrigerate within two hours of baking to prevent bacterial growth and consume within 3-4 days for optimal taste and safety. When reheating, use your oven or pizza oven at 375degF (190degC) for about 5-7 minutes to preserve the crispy crust and melted cheese texture.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute pepperoni with spicy Italian sausage or thinly sliced chorizo for a different flavor profile. Try adding fresh basil or sliced jalapenos before baking to enhance the zesty kick. Instead of a thin crust, use a thicker, hand-tossed dough for a chewier texture that holds more toppings. For a smoky twist, bake the pizza on a preheated cast iron skillet in your home oven to mimic a wood-fired effect.
Allergies
Zesty Pepperoni Pizza contains common allergens such as wheat in the pizza dough and dairy in the mozzarella cheese, which may trigger reactions in individuals with gluten or lactose intolerance. The pepperoni also poses a risk for those sensitive to cured meats or nitrites. Your allergy concerns should be carefully reviewed with the ingredient list before consumption to avoid adverse effects.
Why this recipe?
The Zesty Pepperoni Pizza from Donatos Pizza stands out due to its generous topping of spicy pepperoni combined with their signature thin crust, delivering a perfect balance of crunch and flavor. The blend of zesty tomato sauce and melted cheese enhances the savory taste, making each slice satisfying and flavorful. You'll appreciate the harmonious mix of spice and classic pizza ingredients, which makes it a popular choice among pizza enthusiasts. Replicating this recipe at home allows you to enjoy a restaurant-quality pizza tailored to your preferences.