The Best Hawaiian Pizza (Made at Home!)

Hawaiian pizza. It's a culinary controversy, a sweet and savory sensation, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser (or at least a conversation starter!). Whether you're a die-hard fan or a curious newcomer, this homemade Hawaiian pizza recipe will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise. We're talking crispy crust, gooey mozzarella, salty ham, and juicy pineapple – all the elements of a perfect Hawaiian slice. So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let's get cooking!

Yields: 1 large pizza (8-10 slices) Prep time: 20 minutes (plus dough rising time if making from scratch) Cook time: 15-20 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Dough (Optional - you can use store-bought dough):

• 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Topping:

• ½ cup pizza sauce (tomato-based or your favorite)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup cooked ham, diced
• 1 cup pineapple chunks, drained well
• Optional: Red pepper flakes, oregano, extra ham or pineapple

Instructions:

1. Make the Dough (If making from scratch):

• In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
• In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
• Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
• Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
• Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

2. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pizza Stone (or baking sheet):

• Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats. If using a baking sheet, lightly grease it.

3. Shape the Dough:

• If using homemade dough, punch it down gently and turn it onto a lightly floured surface.
• Roll or stretch the dough into a 12-inch circle.
• Transfer the dough to the pizza stone (or baking sheet).

4. Add the Toppings:

• Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
• Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the sauce.¹
• Arrange the diced ham and pineapple chunks evenly over the cheese.
• Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the toppings.
• Optional: Sprinkle with red pepper flakes or oregano for added flavor.

5. Bake the Pizza:

• Bake the pizza for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Cool and Serve:

• Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing.
• Slice and serve hot.
  
  
  

Tips and Variations:

• Crispy Crust: For an extra crispy crust, preheat your pizza stone for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Sweetness Boost: Drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the pizza after baking for extra sweetness.
• Smoked Ham: Use smoked ham for a deeper, richer flavor.
• Grilled Pineapple: Grill the pineapple chunks before adding them to the pizza for a caramelized sweetness.
• Spicy Kick: Add some jalapeño slices or a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
• Cheese Variations: Try using provolone or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.

Enjoy your homemade Hawaiian pizza! Let me know in the comments below if you have any questions or if you try any variations. And don't forget to share your pizza pictures!