The American Hot from PizzaExpress features juicy pepperoni, spicy jalapenos, and melted mozzarella on a crisp, thin crust, delivering a bold and fiery flavor with every bite.
Equipments
- Pizza oven
- Pizza stone or baking tray
- Dough roller or rolling pin
- Mixing bowl
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Ladle or spoon (for sauce)
- Oven peel (pizza paddle)
- Grater (for mozzarella)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) pizza dough
- 1/2 cup tomato pizza sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 oz (85g) pepperoni slices
- 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (pickled or fresh)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Flour (for dusting)
You should use fresh or pickled jalapenos to achieve the signature spicy kick that defines the American Hot pizza. Mozzarella cheese must be shredded finely to melt evenly and create the perfect gooey texture. Choosing high-quality pepperoni slices is essential for that juicy, savory flavor burst. Make sure your pizza dough is well-rested and rolled thinly to replicate the crisp crust found in the PizzaExpress version. Your American Hot from PizzaExpress copycat menu will stand out by combining these fresh ingredients with precise preparation techniques.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat pizza oven to 475°F (245°C) with pizza stone inside.
- Lightly flour work surface and rolling pin.
- Roll out pizza dough to desired thinness.
- Transfer dough to floured pizza peel or baking tray.
- Spread tomato pizza sauce evenly over dough using ladle or spoon.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over sauce.
- Arrange pepperoni slices evenly across pizza.
- Scatter sliced jalapeños on top.
- Drizzle olive oil over the pizza.
- Sprinkle dried oregano over all toppings.
- Slide pizza onto preheated pizza stone in oven.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until crust is crisp and cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove pizza from oven using peel.
- Let cool slightly, then slice with chef’s knife.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Substitution
The American Hot from PizzaExpress copycat recipe combines pepperoni, jalapenos, and mozzarella on a thin crust to recreate its signature spicy taste. You can substitute fresh jalapenos with pickled ones for a tangier flavor or use banana peppers if jalapenos are unavailable. If you lack a pizza stone, a baking tray will work but preheat it to ensure a crispy base. Shredded mozzarella can be replaced with a blend of mozzarella and provolone for added creaminess. Use flour sparingly when rolling out the dough to prevent sticking without drying it out.
Tips
Ensure your pizza stone is fully preheated in the oven at 475degF (245degC) to achieve a crispy crust. Dust your work surface and rolling pin lightly with flour to prevent the dough from sticking without adding too much flour, which can toughen the crust. Spread the tomato sauce evenly but avoid oversoaking the dough to keep the base from becoming soggy. When adding jalapenos, balance quantity to keep the heat enjoyable for your taste preferences, and allow the pizza to rest briefly after baking for easier slicing.
Nutritions
Your American Hot pizza provides a good balance of macronutrients, with protein sourced from pepperoni and mozzarella, and carbohydrates from the pizza dough. The spicy jalapenos add a low-calorie boost of vitamins A and C, along with capsaicin, which may aid metabolism. Olive oil contributes heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, enhancing nutrient absorption and flavor. This combination delivers a flavorful meal rich in protein, calcium, and antioxidants.
Storage
To keep your American Hot pizza fresh, wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place sliced pizza pieces in an airtight container and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat by placing slices on a preheated baking tray or pizza stone at 375degF (190degC) for about 8-10 minutes to restore the crispness of the crust and melt the cheese evenly.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap pepperoni for spicy chorizo or Italian sausage to introduce a different savory depth. Using roasted fresh jalapenos instead of pickled will yield a smokier, less tangy heat. For a richer flavor, brush the crust with garlic-infused olive oil before adding toppings. Experiment with a blend of mozzarella and provolone cheese for a creamier melt and enhanced texture.
Allergies
The American Hot pizza contains common allergens such as dairy from the mozzarella cheese and gluten from the pizza dough. Pepperoni may contain preservatives or additives that can trigger sensitivities in some individuals. If you have allergies to dairy, gluten, or spicy ingredients like jalapenos, it's important to check labels and consult with your healthcare provider before enjoying this pizza.
Why this recipe?
PizzaExpress' American Hot menu offers a bold blend of spicy flavors combined with their signature fresh pizza dough, creating an irresistible taste experience. The carefully curated ingredients, such as fiery jalapenos, smoky barbecue sauce, and melted cheese, deliver a perfect balance of heat and savory satisfaction. Your attempt to recreate this at home allows you to enjoy customizable spice levels and share a unique culinary adventure with friends and family. This menu stands out for its authentic American-inspired zest that satisfies spice lovers and pizza enthusiasts alike.