South-Of-The-Border Bean And Bacon Pizza
A flavorful and cheesy bean and bacon pizza with spicy chili beans, melted cheese, and crispy bacon, perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Grease a 12-inch pizza pan or 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Unroll the refrigerated pizza crust and place it in the prepared pan.
- Starting at the center, press the dough out with your hands to fit the pan.
- Spread the chili beans (undrained) evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the beans.
- Add the thinly sliced onion on top.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over everything.
- Bake for 5 to 8 minutes until the crust is golden and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or diced green chilies along with the chili beans. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon with smoked paprika for a similar flavor profile. You can also use a whole wheat pizza crust for a healthier option. Ensure to drain the chili beans if you want a less soggy crust, similar to how you would prepare Lima Beans With Bacon.
Serving Suggestions
This pizza pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a side of guacamole for a refreshing contrast. Consider serving it with a chilled beverage like a light lager or a fruity iced tea. For a complete meal, you could also serve it alongside the Twenty-Four Hour Breakfast Casserole, offering a delightful variety for brunch gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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 minutes, or until heated through. This method will help maintain the crispiness of the crust.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of South-Of-The-Border Bean And Bacon Pizza contains roughly 716 calories, with 35g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (96% of the Daily Value) and protein (71% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1451mg per serving (63% 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 type of cheese for this pizza?
Yes, you can substitute the Colby and Monterey Jack cheese blend with other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella. Each cheese will give the pizza a different flavor profile, so choose based on your preference. Mixing cheeses can also add more depth to the dish.
How can I make this pizza spicier?
To increase the heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes before baking. You can also use a spicier brand of chili beans or add some hot sauce to the beans for an extra kick.
Is it possible to make this pizza ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pizza up to the point of baking and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours. Just cover it with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and bake as directed, adding a couple of extra minutes to ensure it's heated through.
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).