Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 ball of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
For the Toppings
- 2 fresh jalapeños, sliced and seeds removed (leave seeds for extra spice)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded or sliced mozzarella cheese (about 4 slices)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped chives, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Lightly coat a pizza pan or baking sheet with olive oil. This ensures the pizza base won't stick and helps achieve a crisp crust.
- Shape the dough: Using your hands, stretch and work the pizza dough into a roughly 10-inch diameter circle. Place it onto a pan lined with parchment paper for easy handling and baking.
- Make the cream cheese base: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
- Assemble the pizza: Spread the seasoned cream cheese evenly over the pizza dough, leaving about a 3/4 to 1-inch border around the edges for the crust. Layer mozzarella cheese slices evenly over the cream cheese. Next, sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top and arrange the sliced jalapeños evenly over the cheese.
- Bake the pizza: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Once baked, remove from oven and let the pizza cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle finely chopped chives on top if desired. Slice into portions and enjoy your spicy, creamy jalapeño popper pizza!
Notes
- If you prefer a milder pizza, remove all the seeds from the jalapeños; keep some or all seeds if you like it spicier.
- You can substitute Monterey Jack cheese with cheddar or pepper jack for an extra kick.
- Store-bought dough speeds up prep, but homemade dough works great if you prefer fresh.
- Serve with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping pizza slices.
- This recipe can be adapted for a gluten-free dough if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
