Mike'S Pizza
A flavorful homemade pizza featuring pepperoni, bell peppers, onions, and cheeses, topped with crispy bacon—perfect for casual gatherings or weekend indulgence.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Follow the directions on the pizza crust mix package to prepare the crust.
- Spread the prepared crust with Ragu Pizza Quick with pepperoni sauce.
- Mix chopped bell pepper and onion, then spread evenly over the sauce.
- Shred the peppercorn cheese and mozzarella cheese, then sprinkle over the top of the vegetables.
- Fry or cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it over the cheese layer.
- Bake the pizza at 500°F for 10 minutes until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier crust, consider pre-baking the crust for 5 minutes before adding toppings. If you don't have peppercorn cheese, a sharp cheddar or a blend of Italian cheeses can work well. Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or olives for extra flavor. For a spicy kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mike's Pizza with a light salad or some garlic bread to complement the meal. A side of marinara sauce for dipping can also enhance the pizza experience. For beverages, pair it with a refreshing soda or a glass of beer. This dish is perfect for casual gatherings and game nights, making it a must-try for pizza lovers.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is bubbly. You can also use a microwave, but the crust may become soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mike'S Pizza contains roughly 655 calories, with 20g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (81% of the Daily Value) and protein (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1089mg per serving (47% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pizza sauce?
Yes, feel free to substitute the Ragu Pizza Quick with any pizza sauce you prefer, such as homemade marinara or a spicy pizza sauce for added flavor. Just ensure the consistency is similar so that it spreads easily over the crust.
What can I add to the pizza for extra flavor?
Consider adding herbs like oregano or basil to sprinkle on top before baking, or incorporate sliced olives and pepperoncini for a briny kick. You could also experiment with different meats, such as Italian sausage or grilled chicken, for variety.
Is there a way to make this pizza healthier?
To make a healthier version, use a whole wheat pizza crust mix, and load up on more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or artichokes. You can also reduce the amount of cheese and use lower-fat options to cut down on calories while maintaining a delicious flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).