Rising crust pepperoni pizza is a classic, but sometimes it’s fun to elevate it with a few unexpected toppings. Adding some unique ingredients can bring out new flavors, textures, and even health benefits. Here are five exciting toppings that pair wonderfully with pepperoni and a rising crust base.
1. Caramelized Onions
Caramelized onions bring a rich, sweet, and savory flavor that pairs beautifully with pepperoni’s spicy and salty profile. Slowly cooking onions allows them to develop a deep, almost buttery taste that enhances the entire pizza experience. When combined with the crisp yet chewy rising crust and zesty pepperoni, caramelized onions add a delicate sweetness that balances out the spice.
To add them, simply cook sliced onions on low heat until golden brown and soft, then spread them across the pizza before baking. This sweet-savory combination creates an irresistible taste.
2. Fresh Arugula
If you’re looking for something that adds a refreshing, bright flavor to your pizza, consider topping it with fresh arugula. Arugula’s peppery, slightly bitter taste complements the richness of the cheese and pepperoni. What’s more, it adds a layer of crunch and a burst of color, making the pizza feel lighter and fresher.
For the best results, add a handful of arugula after the pizza comes out of the oven. You can also drizzle some olive oil or balsamic glaze for extra flavor. The slight bitterness of the arugula cuts through the heavier elements of the pizza, giving it a well-rounded taste.
3. Roasted Red Peppers
Roasted red peppers are another fantastic addition to pepperoni pizza. Their sweet, smoky flavor works beautifully with the tangy pepperoni, adding depth without overpowering the other flavors. The soft texture of roasted peppers also enhances the overall mouthfeel of the pizza, making each bite smooth and satisfying.
To use roasted red peppers, either roast them yourself by charring the skin over an open flame or buy pre-roasted ones in a jar. Add them on top of the pizza before or after baking for a burst of color and a sweet, smoky flavor that pairs well with the spicy meat.
4. Pineapple and Jalapeños
Though the pineapple-on-pizza debate remains controversial, there’s no denying the exciting combination of sweet and spicy when pineapple is paired with jalapeños. The tangy sweetness of the pineapple complements the spiciness of jalapeños, while the pepperoni adds a savory punch. This trio creates a dynamic and flavorful bite.
Add fresh pineapple chunks and thinly sliced jalapeños to your pizza before baking or during the last few minutes to ensure they retain their juiciness and crispness. This combination creates a fun, bold twist on the traditional pepperoni pizza.
5. Ricotta Cheese
For a creamy, luxurious texture, try adding dollops of ricotta cheese to your pepperoni pizza. Ricotta has a mild flavor that won’t overpower the other ingredients but instead adds a light, fluffy contrast to the crispy crust and spicy meat. The creamy texture of the ricotta enhances the overall experience, making the pizza feel richer without being too heavy.
Spoon small dollops of ricotta onto your pizza before baking. It melts into the other ingredients and creates a smooth, decadent bite with each mouthful, offering a balanced flavor against the salty pepperoni.
