Tired of the same old pizza night? Craving something a little different, yet incredibly satisfying? Then get ready to be amazed by this Corned Beef Pizza recipe! It’s a delightful fusion of savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese, all atop a crispy, homemade pizza crust. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a fun family gathering, or even an impressive appetizer. It's surprisingly easy to make, and the result is a delicious dish that will become a new family favorite. Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
For the Pizza Dough:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Pizza Topping:
- 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing
- 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained
- 8 ounces thinly sliced corned beef
- 4 ounces Swiss cheese, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill (optional)
Instructions:
Making the Pizza Dough:
- Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Add dry ingredients: Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.
- First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Assembling and Baking the Pizza:
- Preheat oven & prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet or pizza stone.
- Shape the dough: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out to your desired thickness and shape. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
- Add the sauce: Spread the Thousand Island dressing evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a small border.
- Layer the toppings: Evenly distribute the sauerkraut over the dressing. Arrange the corned beef slices on top of the sauerkraut. Finally, top with the sliced Swiss cheese and fresh dill (if using).
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions:
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving. This delicious Corned Beef Pizza is fantastic on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips and Variations:
- For a crispier crust: Pre-bake the pizza crust for 5-7 minutes before adding the toppings.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dough or sprinkle some on top before baking for a little heat.
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or Gruyere.
- Meat variations: While corned beef is fantastic, you can substitute it with pastrami or even roast beef for a variation.
- Veggie boost: Add some caramelized onions or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and color.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 400-500 (depending on crust thickness and toppings)
This Corned Beef Pizza recipe offers a unique and flavorful twist on a classic dish. It’s a fantastic option for those seeking easy recipes, quick dinner ideas, and healthy meals (when using whole-wheat crust options). The homemade cooking aspect adds a touch of personal satisfaction, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Enjoy!