Pastrami pizza is a delicious twist on two classic favorites. Combining the smoky, spiced flavors of pastrami with the gooey, melty goodness of pizza creates a unique dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re a fan of deli meats or just looking to try something new, this recipe brings bold flavors together in every bite.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect Pastrami Pizza, we gather fresh and flavorful ingredients that create a harmonious blend of savory and spicy notes. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering bold tastes and satisfying textures.
For the Pizza Dough
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Sauce
- 1 cup tomato sauce (preferably low-sodium)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Toppings
- 8 ounces thinly sliced pastrami
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup sliced red onions
- 1 cup sliced pickles (dill or bread and butter)
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard (for drizzling)
For Garnish
- Fresh arugula leaves (1 cup)
- Freshly cracked black pepper
- Grated Parmesan cheese (2 tablespoons)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (1 tablespoon)
| Ingredient Group | Key Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Pizza Dough | Yeast, warm water, flour, olive oil, sugar, salt |
| Sauce | Tomato sauce, garlic, smoked paprika, black pepper, oregano |
| Toppings | Pastrami, mozzarella, red onions, pickles, yellow mustard |
| Garnish | Arugula, black pepper, Parmesan, parsley |
Equipment Needed
To create the perfect pastrami pizza at home, having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process and outstanding results. Below is a detailed list of essential tools we use for every step, from dough preparation to baking and slicing.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Stand Mixer (optional) | For kneading pizza dough efficiently |
| Large Mixing Bowl | To combine ingredients and proof dough |
| Rolling Pin | To roll out the dough evenly |
| Pizza Stone or Baking Sheet | For baking the pizza evenly with a crispy crust |
| Pizza Peel | To transfer pizza in and out of the oven without deforming |
| Sharp Chef’s Knife | To slice the pastrami and other toppings precisely |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | For accurate ingredient measurement |
| Small Saucepan | To simmer and prepare the tomato sauce |
| Grater | To shred mozzarella and any additional cheeses |
| Oven Mitts | For safe handling of hot pizza stone or baking sheet |
| Cooling Rack | To rest the pizza after baking, preventing sogginess |
Additional Recommendations:
- Using a pizza stone preheated in the oven helps mimic the high heat of professional pizza ovens, giving our crust a crispy exterior and light, airy crumb.
- A pizza peel is invaluable when working with a hot pizza stone, allowing us to slide the pizza on and off with confidence.
- If you don’t have a stand mixer, kneading dough by hand on a lightly floured surface works just as well.
Equipping ourselves with these tools allows us to focus on layering the smoky, spice-kissed pastrami and melty mozzarella perfectly, achieving that bold flavor burst we love in every bite of our pastrami pizza.
Preparation
To craft the perfect pastrami pizza, precise preparation is key. We’ll guide you through each step from dough to toppings, ensuring every component complements the smoky, spicy pastrami flavor.
Preparing the Dough
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast with 1 cup warm water (105°F to 110°F). Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon sugar.
- Combine wet and dry: Pour the foamy yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons olive oil into the flour mixture.
- Knead the dough: Using a stand mixer with a dough hook or by hand, knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First rise: Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Preparing the Sauce
- Heat ingredients: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup tomato sauce, 2 cloves minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon dried oregano.
- Simmer: Let the mixture simmer gently for 10 minutes to thicken and infuse flavors.
- Season: Add salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Preparing the Toppings
- Slice the pastrami: Thinly slice 8 ounces of pastrami to ensure it heats through quickly and evenly on the pizza.
- Grate the cheese: Shred 2 cups mozzarella cheese finely for even melting.
- Additional toppings: If desired, prepare thin slices of red onion and jalapeños to balance the rich pastrami.
- Preheat equipment: Place your pizza stone in the oven and preheat at 475°F for at least 30 minutes to achieve a crispy crust base.
| Ingredient | Preparation Detail |
|---|---|
| Active dry yeast | Dissolve in warm water, activate |
| All-purpose flour | Measure accurately, mix dry |
| Tomato sauce | Simmer with garlic & oregano |
| Pastrami | Thinly sliced for even cooking |
| Mozzarella cheese | Finely shredded |
With organized preparation, our pastrami pizza layers will come together seamlessly for bold, irresistible flavor.
Assembling the Pastrami Pizza
Now that our dough is perfectly risen and our sauce is ready, it’s time to bring everything together. Assembling the pastrami pizza requires attention to detail to balance the bold flavors and achieve the perfect texture.
Rolling Out the Dough
We begin by lightly flouring our work surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking. Place the rested dough ball on the surface and roll it out into a 12-inch circle. Aim for an even thickness of about 1/4 inch to ensure a crispy yet tender crust.
- Tip: Roll from the center outward, rotating the dough frequently to maintain a circular shape.
- Pro Tip: If dough resists stretching, let it rest for 5 minutes to relax the gluten.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Dough size | 12 inches diameter |
| Dough thickness | Approximately 1/4 inch |
| Flour for dusting | As needed to prevent sticking |
Once rolled, carefully transfer the dough to a floured pizza peel or baking sheet if you’re not using a pizza stone.
Adding the Sauce and Cheese
Next, we spread a generous 1/3 cup of the simmered tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving about 1 inch of space around the edges for the crust.
We then sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly across the sauce layer. The cheese provides the perfect creamy base to complement the smoky richness of the pastrami.
- Pro Tip: Avoid piling cheese too thickly to ensure proper melting and avoid sogginess.
Arranging the Pastrami and Other Toppings
Now comes the star ingredient—thinly sliced pastrami. Distribute about 6 ounces of pastrami slices evenly over the cheese. We want every slice of pizza to have a satisfying amount of rich flavorful pastrami.
To enhance the flavor profile, we add:
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced pickles for tangy crunch
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill for herbaceous brightness
- Optional: a light sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for subtle spice
This combination enhances the smoky savory notes and adds layers of texture.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Thinly sliced pastrami | 6 ounces | Main savory topping |
| Pickles (thin slices) | 1/4 cup | Adds tangy crunch |
| Fresh dill (chopped) | 2 tablespoons | Adds fresh herbal aroma |
| Crushed red pepper | Optional, to taste | Adds subtle heat |
With toppings perfectly arranged, our pastrami pizza is ready for the oven where it will develop that golden crust and melty, bubbly cheese.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to bake our Pastrami Pizza to perfection, ensuring a crispy crust and savory toppings that highlight the bold flavors of pastrami.
Preheating the Oven
We begin by preheating the oven to 475°F (245°C). For best results, place a pizza stone on the middle rack before turning on the heat. This preheating step is crucial because the stone will absorb and radiate high heat, helping us achieve a crispy and evenly cooked crust similar to a professional oven.
| Temperature | Oven Placement | Equipment |
|---|---|---|
| 475°F (245°C) | Middle rack | Pizza stone |
Allow the oven and pizza stone to heat for at least 30 minutes. This ensures the surface is hot enough to quickly cook the dough, locking in the texture and preventing sogginess.
Baking the Pizza
Once the oven has preheated, we carefully transfer the assembled pastrami pizza onto the hot pizza stone using a pizza peel dusted with cornmeal to prevent sticking. This technique helps us slide the pizza smoothly without disturbing the toppings.
Bake the pizza at 475°F for 12 to 15 minutes. During baking, the mozzarella cheese will melt and bubble, and the pastrami will warm through, releasing its signature smoky aroma. The crust should turn a golden brown with slightly crisp edges.
To summarize the baking parameters:
| Step | Temperature | Duration | Visual Cues |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bake pizza | 475°F (245°C) | 12 to 15 mins | Golden crust, melted cheese |
Avoid opening the oven frequently as this lowers the temperature and impacts the cooking process.
Checking for Doneness
We must ensure the pizza is perfectly cooked before removing it. Here are key signs that our pastrami pizza is done:
- The crust is golden brown and firm to the touch with a slight crisp.
- The cheese is fully melted, slightly bubbly, and just starting to brown in spots.
- The pastrami feels warm throughout without being dry or overcooked.
If the crust edges or cheese still look pale or doughy, bake for an additional 2-3 minutes and check again.
Once done, use oven mitts to remove the pizza from the oven. Let it rest on a cooling rack for 3-5 minutes before slicing. This resting time allows the cheese to set slightly, making slices cleaner and easier to serve.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoying our Pastrami Pizza is about more than just the first bite. We want to share ways to enhance its flavors and create a complete dining experience that celebrates the smoky, savory, and melty magic of this unique dish.
Garnishing Tips
Elevate the presentation and flavor profile with these garnishing options:
- Fresh Dill Sprigs: Add a burst of herbaceous brightness that complements the rich pastrami.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle for a subtle kick that balances the smoky and cheesy notes.
- Pickle Slices: Thinly sliced dill pickles add an irresistible tangy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the melted cheese.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: A light dusting intensifies the savory depth without overpowering.
- Drizzle of Mustard Sauce: Classic deli mustard or a spicy mustard drizzle introduces a sharp, tangy layer enhancing the pastrami.
Pro Tip: Add garnishes just after baking so their flavors stay fresh and vibrant rather than wilted or muted.
Pairing Ideas
Pairing our Pastrami Pizza with complementary sides and beverages completes the meal. Here are our favorite options:
| Pairing Type | Recommendations | Flavor Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Sides | Crisp Caesar Salad, Garlic Roasted Potatoes | Freshness & earthiness balance |
| Beverages | Classic Pale Ale, Dry Red Wine (Cabernet Sauvignon) | Hops bitterness & tannins cut through richness |
| Sauces & Dips | Horseradish Cream, Spicy Aioli | Adds creaminess and spice contrast |
| Desserts | Lemon Sorbet, Tiramisu | Light and sweet contrast |
Serving our pizza with a crisp, refreshing side or a beverage with slight acidity helps balance the richness of the smoky pastrami and gooey cheese. It also enhances the overall flavor complexity ensuring every bite and sip delights the palate.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To maximize convenience and maintain the bold, savory flavor of our Pastrami Pizza, proper make-ahead and storage techniques are essential. Here’s how we keep our pizza fresh and delicious, whether preparing in advance or storing leftovers.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Prepare the dough and sauce ahead of time. We recommend making the pizza dough up to 24 hours in advance. After kneading and the first rise, store the dough covered in the refrigerator to develop flavor and ensure easier handling.
- Store the sauce in an airtight container. Tomato sauce infused with garlic and oregano remains vibrant for up to 3 days refrigerated.
- Before assembling, bring the dough to room temperature for 30 minutes to facilitate rolling.
- Pre-slice the pastrami and shred the mozzarella cheese. Keep these toppings in separate airtight containers to preserve freshness and moisture balance.
Storing Leftover Pastrami Pizza
To enjoy your pastrami pizza later, follow these storage guidelines to keep it as fresh as possible:
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 hours | Cover loosely with foil if cooling out |
| Refrigerator | 3 to 4 days | Store in airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap |
| Freezer (uncooked dough and toppings) | Up to 1 month | Freeze dough flat in a zip-top bag, keep toppings separately sealed |
| Freezer (cooked pizza) | 1 to 2 months | Wrap pizza slices tightly in foil and place in freezer bag |
Reheating Recommendations
When reheating leftover pastrami pizza, maintaining that signature crispy crust and melty cheese is key. Here’s what we do:
- Oven Method (Preferred): Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place pizza slices on a baking sheet or directly on the oven rack. Heat for 8-10 minutes until cheese bubbles and crust crisps.
- Skillet Method: Heat over medium heat in a non-stick skillet with lid on for 5-7 minutes. This prevents sogginess and reheats toppings evenly.
- Avoid microwaving, as it makes the crust chewy and toppings rubbery.
“Pro Tip: To refresh the vibrant pastrami flavor after storage, add a few fresh pickle slices or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes before serving.”
By implementing these make-ahead and storage tips, we ensure each bite of our Pastrami Pizza remains as satisfying as the first, capturing that irresistible fusion of smoky, spicy, and cheesy goodness every time.
Conclusion
Pastrami pizza offers a bold twist on a classic favorite, bringing together smoky, spicy, and cheesy flavors in a way that’s sure to impress. With the right ingredients and tools, crafting this delicious fusion at home is both fun and rewarding.
Whether you’re serving it for a casual night in or a special gathering, pastrami pizza delivers a unique taste experience that stands out. By following the steps and tips we’ve shared, you’ll enjoy a perfectly crispy crust and mouthwatering toppings every time.
Give this recipe a try and discover how pastrami can elevate your pizza game to exciting new heights.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is pastrami pizza?
Pastrami pizza is a creative fusion dish combining smoky, spiced pastrami with classic pizza ingredients like tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. It offers a bold, savory flavor that appeals to deli meat lovers and pizza enthusiasts alike.
What ingredients are needed to make pastrami pizza?
Key ingredients include active dry yeast, all-purpose flour, tomato sauce, thinly sliced pastrami, shredded mozzarella, garlic, oregano, and optional garnishes like pickles and fresh dill.
What equipment do I need to make pastrami pizza at home?
You’ll need a stand mixer or mixing bowl, rolling pin, pizza stone or baking sheet, pizza peel, sharp knife, measuring tools, small saucepan, grater, oven mitts, and a cooling rack.
How do you prepare the pizza dough for pastrami pizza?
Activate yeast in warm water, mix dry ingredients, combine with wet, knead dough until smooth, and let it rise until doubled in size before rolling out.
How should I cook pastrami pizza for the best crust?
Preheat oven to 475°F with a pizza stone inside for 30 minutes. Bake pizza on the stone for 12-15 minutes until cheese is melted and crust is golden and crispy.
Can pastrami pizza be stored and reheated?
Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven on a baking sheet or pizza stone to keep the crust crispy and cheese melty.
What are some good garnishes or toppings to add to pastrami pizza?
Pickles, fresh dill, and crushed red pepper flakes are popular garnishes that add tanginess and heat to complement the smoky pastrami and cheese.
How long should pastrami pizza rest before serving?
Allow the pizza to rest for 3-5 minutes on a cooling rack after baking. This helps the cheese set and makes slicing easier without losing toppings.