Chorizo Pizza Recipe

Chorizo pizza is a spicy and savory dish that blends bold sausage with a crispy crust and melty cheese. It brings lively flavors straight to your kitchen and feels like a special treat any night of the week.

Whether you’re new to homemade pizza or a seasoned cook, this chorizo pizza recipe offers a simple approach with big impact. You’ll love how the heat of fresh chorizo meets the sweetness of tomato sauce and the creaminess of mozzarella. Best of all, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for families or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chorizo pizza recipe is quick to assemble yet full of mouthwatering flavor. The sausage adds a spicy kick without too much fuss, and the dough can be homemade or store-bought—so you can pick what suits your schedule. Many people love chorizo because it brings a bright color and a rich taste that stands out among regular pizza toppings.

If you’re a fan of tangy tomato sauce and gooey cheese, adding chorizo transforms each slice into something a bit more exciting. You won’t need unusual ingredients or tough techniques. Instead, you’ll use fresh, simple staples. This recipe works for busy weeknights or casual pizza nights with friends, giving you a spicy chorizo twist that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients for Chorizo Pizza Recipe

Below is a clear list of everything you need for one large pizza. Feel free to double or triple if you’re feeding a bigger crowd. When possible, opt for fresh, high-quality items to get the best taste.

1. Pizza Dough (1 ball)
   • About 1 pound of dough.
   • This can be a homemade pizza dough or store-bought pizza dough.
   • If you like making dough at home, you can prepare a dough recipe that yields a light yet sturdy crust.
2. Chorizo Sausage (6–8 ounces)
   • You can choose fresh chorizo, spicy chorizo, Mexican chorizo, or even cured chorizo.
   • If it’s raw ground chorizo, it needs to be cooked before adding to the pizza.
3. Pizza Sauce (1/2–3/4 cup)
   • A simple homemade pizza sauce or a quality store-bought pizza sauce works well.
   • You could also use fresh tomato sauce if you have it on hand.
4. Cheese (2 cups total, shredded or sliced)
   • Mozzarella cheese is the top choice for classic melt. You can try a blend of mozzarella and another favorite cheese such as cheddar, Fontina, or Manchego.
   • A little goat cheese or ricotta cheese can be used for extra creaminess, but that’s optional.
5. Olive Oil (1 tablespoon)
   • Use this to brush the crust or lightly drizzle over the toppings.
6. Red Onion (1 small, thinly sliced)
   • This adds sweetness and a slight crunch.
   • You can also swap it for sweet pepper or even jalapeño if you like extra heat.
7. Red Pepper Flakes (Optional, 1 teaspoon)
   • Use this if you want an even spicier kick.
   • Feel free to skip if the chorizo already delivers enough heat for you.
8. Garlic (1–2 cloves, minced)
   • A little minced garlic goes a long way in enhancing flavor.
   • You can skip if your chorizo is already rich in spices.
9. Chopped Cilantro or Basil (Handful for garnish)
   • This fresh greenery lifts the final taste.
   • You can also use fresh parsley if you prefer a milder herb.
10. Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)

• Adjust based on how salty or spicy your chorizo is.

How to Make Chorizo Pizza Recipe

This section walks you through a simple step-by-step method to make chorizo pizza. The instructions assume you are using a standard home oven and a single ball of dough. If you are cooking more than one pizza, simply repeat the process or work in batches.

1. Prep the Dough

1. Bring Dough to Room Temperature: If you’re using store-bought pizza dough, remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before you plan to start. This rest time makes the dough easier to stretch.
2. Dust Your Workspace: Lightly flour a clean surface and your rolling pin. This helps keep the dough from sticking.
3. Shape the Dough: Press or roll it into a circle about 12–14 inches wide. You can also make a rectangular shape if you’re using a baking sheet.

2. Cook the Chorizo (If Fresh or Ground)

1. Heat a Skillet: Warm a pan over medium heat.
2. Add a Drizzle of Olive Oil: If your chorizo is very fatty, you might not need extra oil, but a small amount helps get it started.
3. Cook the Chorizo: Remove any casing if you’re using fresh chorizo links. Break or chop the sausage into bite-size pieces. Place the chorizo in a skillet and stir until it browns.
4. Drain Excess Oil: Once the chorizo is cooked through, remove it to a plate lined with paper towels. If you’re using cured chorizo or dry chorizo, you can skip this step because it doesn’t require cooking in a skillet.

3. Preheat Your Oven

1. Set Oven Temperature: Most pizzas bake well between 450°F and 500°F (230°C–260°C). Choose 475°F (about 245°C) for a crisp crust.
2. Use a Pizza Stone or Baking Sheet: If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven now to preheat. If not, you can use a baking sheet or pizza pan.
3. Allow It to Heat Thoroughly: Let the oven warm for at least 20–30 minutes. Using a pizza stone helps the crust get crispy underneath.

4. Assemble the Pizza

1. Spread the Sauce: Place your shaped dough on a pizza peel (if using a stone) or on a lightly oiled baking sheet. Spoon on the pizza sauce, leaving a small border around the edge for the crust.
2. Add a Light Drizzle of Olive Oil: A tiny swirl on top of the sauce can deepen the taste.
3. Layer the Cheese: Scatter half of your shredded mozzarella cheese or whichever blend you’re using. Save the remaining half for the top.
4. Top with Chorizo: Distribute the cooked chorizo pieces across the pizza. If you have dry or cured chorizo, slice it thinly and spread the slices.
5. Add Red Onions and Extras: Sprinkle sliced onions, a bit of chopped garlic if you like, and red pepper flakes if you want more spice.
6. Add Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the rest of the cheese over the top to help hold the toppings in place.
7. Brush or Drizzle the Crust Edge: A quick brush of olive oil around the border can help the crust turn golden.

5. Bake the Pizza

1. Place the Pizza: Slide the assembled pizza onto the hot pizza stone or place your baking sheet in the oven.
2. Bake Until the Crust is Golden: This usually takes 10–15 minutes, depending on your oven and the thickness of your dough. Keep an eye on it starting around the 8-minute mark.
3. Check for Cheese Melt: The cheese should bubble and start to brown slightly. The crust edges should look firm and golden.
4. Remove the Pizza: Use a pizza peel or a large spatula to take it out carefully. Let it cool for a minute or two before slicing.

6. Slice and Garnish

1. Cut into Slices: A pizza wheel or sharp knife works well.
2. Top with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle cilantro, basil, or parsley on top just before serving.
3. Optional Drizzle: Some people like a small drizzle of olive oil or even a spoonful of chimichurri on finished pizza for extra brightness.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

1. Pair It with a Simple Salad: A crisp green salad or a side of roasted veggies balances the spicy chorizo.
2. Offer Extra Sauce: Some people enjoy a dipping sauce on the side, such as a mild ranch or a tomato-based salsa.
3. Sprinkle with Extra Toppings: If you love chorizo and cheese together, you could add a light dusting of Parmesan or a spoon of goat cheese right before serving.

Storage

1. Cool the Leftovers: Let leftover slices reach room temperature.
2. Use Airtight Containers: Place slices in a sealed container or wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap.
3. Refrigerate for Up to 3 Days: Beyond that, the crust may get soggy and the flavor can degrade.
4. Freeze for Longer Storage: Wrap slices in parchment, then in foil, and place in freezer-safe bags. They can stay good for up to 2 months.

FDA Cold Food Storage Chart: Offers detailed charts outlining safe refrigeration and freezing durations for various food items to maintain quality and safety.

Reheating

1. Oven Method: Warm slices on a baking sheet at 350°F (about 175°C) for 8–10 minutes. This keeps the crust from getting too soft.
2. Skillet Reheat: For a crisp bottom, place a slice in a preheated skillet and cover with a lid. Heat on medium-low for about 4–5 minutes.
3. Microwave: This method is the quickest but can lead to a softer crust. If you’re in a hurry, microwave for 30–45 seconds, checking often.

Helpful Notes

• Type of Chorizo: Many grocery stores carry several types, including Spanish chorizo, Mexican chorizo, or fresh chorizo links. Mexican chorizo often has more spice and is raw, so it needs to be cooked. Spanish chorizo can be found cured, meaning you can slice and place it on the pizza without precooking. If you avoid pork, you can use beef chorizo or turkey chorizo.
• Heat Level: The final taste can be mild or hot, depending on the chorizo you pick. For an extra punch, sprinkle more chili flakes or sliced jalapeños.
• Using a Pizza Stone: A stone helps get a crisp bottom, but a baking sheet can still make a delicious homemade pizza. If using a pizza stone, let it preheat with the oven. Then you can use a pizza peel sprinkled with cornmeal to help slide your dough on.
• Thickness of the Crust: If you like a thick crust, don’t stretch the dough as widely. Keep in mind you might need an extra minute or two of baking. For a thin crust, spread the dough out more and watch the oven carefully to avoid burning.
• Cheese Choices: Mozzarella cheese is a popular pick, but you could swap or mix it with cheddar, Fontina, gouda, or even a crumbly cheese like goat cheese. If you love chorizo with an extra smoky note, try a smoked cheese.
• Prebaking the Crust (Optional): Some people like to prebake the crust for about 5 minutes before adding sauce and toppings. This can help prevent a soggy center. If your dough recipe is softer or you’re using very watery sauce, prebaking can be a good idea.
• Add Corn or Veggies: You can try a chorizo corn pizza by adding sweet corn kernels on top. You can also mix in roasted bell peppers or mushrooms. This brings more color and flavor to the chorizo pizza.
• Serving with Extras: Some enjoy a light drizzle of honey or hot sauce on top. Others like a scattering of arugula leaves for a peppery edge.
• Accommodating Different Diets: Consider turkey or chicken chorizo if you want to avoid pork. If you’re skipping dairy, a plant-based cheese alternative can still taste good.
• Meal Prep Tip: You can make or buy extra dough and freeze it in separate balls. Then, when you want to make chorizo pizza, thaw the dough in the fridge the night before, and it’s ready when you are.
• Outdoor Grill Version: If you have a gas or charcoal grill, you can place a pizza stone or cast-iron pan on the grill to bake your pizza outside. This sometimes creates even more char on the crust.
• Watch the Salt: Chorizo tends to be salty, so taste a small piece before adding extra salt to the sauce or cheese. Adjust seasonings only if needed.
• Shape Variations: Don’t worry if your pizza isn’t a perfect circle. Rectangles or rustic shapes taste just as good.
• Fun Activity: Making pizza at home can be a group event. Let each person assemble their own portion of dough. Kids might enjoy placing cheese or small bits of chorizo on their personal pizza.

Conclusion

Chorizo pizza offers an easy and tasty way to enjoy homemade pizza without complicated steps. From the spicy punch of fresh chorizo to the warm, bubbly cheese on top, each bite is a burst of comfort and flavor. You can customize it by adding more toppings, swapping cheese, or changing up herbs. This recipe suits any casual night in, and it’s a fun way to share a meal with friends or family.

Once you get comfortable with these steps, you’ll likely try other sausage varieties or different vegetable combos. Feel free to experiment with add-ons like peppers, onions, or even a drizzle of sauce before baking. If you give this chorizo pizza recipe a go, share your experience in the comments, leave a review, or pass it along to anyone who loves savory pies. Making pizza at home is simple, and the result is always extra satisfying.

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Chorizo Pizza recipe

Rebecca Blumer

This homemade chorizo pizza combines spicy chorizo sausage, melty cheese, and a crispy crust for a flavorful and satisfying meal. It’s easy to make and perfect for pizza nights at home.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 27 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian, Mexican Fusion

Servings 4

Calories 480 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 ball pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
• 6 –8 oz chorizo sausage (fresh, spicy, or cured)
• ½ –¾ cup pizza sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 cups cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, Fontina, or Manchego)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for crust and drizzling)
• 1 small red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 –2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for extra spice)
• Handful of fresh cilantro or basil (for garnish)
• Salt & black pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Prep Dough: Let pizza dough rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. Roll it out on a floured surface into a 12–14-inch circle.
• Cook Chorizo: If using fresh chorizo, cook it in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease. If using cured chorizo, slice it thinly.
• Preheat Oven: Set oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it inside to preheat.
• Assemble Pizza: Place the rolled dough on a pizza peel or baking sheet. Spread pizza sauce evenly, leaving a small border. Sprinkle half the cheese, add chorizo, onions, and garlic. Top with remaining cheese.
• Bake: Transfer to the oven and bake for 10–15 minutes or until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
• Garnish & Serve: Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then garnish with fresh cilantro or basil. Slice and enjoy!

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 480 kcal
• Total Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 950mg
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g
• Protein: 20g

 

Disclaimer: The nutrition information provided is estimated based on automated calculations and should be viewed as an approximation. These values are offered as a helpful reference and may vary depending on specific ingredients and brands used. For the most accurate results, please consult your own nutritional data or preferred brand values.

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