If you’re anything like me and love a marriage of savory and sweet flavors, then this Apple Cheddar Rosemary Bacon Pizza Recipe will absolutely steal your heart. Imagine crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, fragrant rosemary, and sweet apple slices all coming together on a perfectly baked pizza crust — magic on every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique Flavor Combination: Sweet apples balance the smoky bacon and sharp cheddar for a pizza that’s anything but ordinary.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and straightforward ingredients make this pizza a stress-free crowd-pleaser.
- Fresh Herb Kick: Rosemary adds an aromatic touch that elevates the entire pie to restaurant-quality.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Perfect for a weekday dinner, weekend treat, or when you want to impress friends effortlessly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple, fresh ingredients that each play a vital role in flavor and texture. From the tender and flaky bacon to the creamy white sauce, every element combines to create a balanced and unforgettable pizza experience.
- Pizza dough: Use your favorite homemade or store-bought dough as the crispy canvas for all these wonderful toppings.
- Golden Delicious apples: Thinly sliced for a hint of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory ingredients.
- Cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, it brings that quintessential cheesy punch.
- Rosemary: Fresh, chopped rosemary adds fragrant earthiness that brightens the whole pizza.
- Bacon slices: Crispy, smoky bacon pieces that offer texture and indulgence.
- Yellow onion and garlic: The foundation for the creamy white sauce, cooked to mellow sweetness.
- Butter, flour, and chicken broth: Whisked together to make a luscious sauce that binds all the flavors.
- Whole milk and oregano: For richness and a subtle herbal note in the sauce.
- Mozzarella cheese: Added to the sauce for creaminess and smooth melt.
- Basil or microgreens: A fresh garnish to finish the pizza with color and fragrance.
- Salt and pepper: To season everything perfectly according to your taste.
Note: Exact ingredients and measurements are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations
The beauty of this Apple Cheddar Rosemary Bacon Pizza Recipe is how easily it adapts to your personal tastes and pantry staples. Don’t hesitate to tweak it and make it your own!
- Swap the apples: Try Granny Smith or Fuji for a different tartness or sweetness profile.
- Use turkey bacon or pancetta: For a leaner or alternative bacon flavor without sacrificing that smoky goodness.
- Opt for a gluten-free crust: Perfect for those avoiding gluten, while still keeping all the toppings intact.
- Add a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze: A touch of sweetness or tang right before serving can elevate the flavor layers.
How to Make Apple Cheddar Rosemary Bacon Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Crisp the Bacon and Infuse with Rosemary
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and spray it with non-stick cooking spray—this makes cleanup a breeze! Lay out 8 bacon slices, then sprinkle fresh chopped rosemary and pepper on top. Bake for about 12-14 minutes until the bacon is satisfyingly crisp. Once done, transfer to paper towels to drain and cool, then chop into bite-sized pieces. This step delivers that all-important smoky, herby crunch that will pop on every bite.
Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy White Sauce
In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter and sauté diced yellow onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant, about 4 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for about a minute to get rid of that raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in chicken broth, whole milk, and oregano, stirring continually until the sauce thickens nicely, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and fold in shredded mozzarella for ooey-gooey goodness that will act as the perfect base for your pizza.
Step 3: Assemble the Pizza for Baking
Spray another baking sheet with non-stick spray, then roll out your pizza dough into a 9×13-inch rectangle. Spread the luscious white sauce evenly, leaving a one-inch border for the crust. Arrange thin apple slices on top, covering the sauce generously. Sprinkle your chopped rosemary bacon pieces next, followed by a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese. This layering ensures every slice will be infused with that perfect blend of sweet, savory, creamy, and herby flavors.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop your assembled pizza into the preheated 400°F oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly toasted. After removing from the oven, add a finishing touch of fresh basil leaves or microgreens to bring vibrant color and a hint of fresh herbal brightness. Let it cool briefly, then slice and dig in!
Pro Tips for Making Apple Cheddar Rosemary Bacon Pizza Recipe
- Choose crisp apples: Golden Delicious works wonderfully, but opting for crisp apples helps maintain texture even after baking.
- Don’t overload with sauce: Keep the white sauce spread thin to avoid soggy crust while still getting creamy coverage.
- Use fresh rosemary: The fresh herb really makes the flavor pop compared to dried, so chop it finely for even distribution.
- Let bacon cool fully before chopping: This prevents greasy clumps and ensures crisp, evenly sized topping pieces.
How to Serve Apple Cheddar Rosemary Bacon Pizza Recipe
Garnishes
Some fresh basil leaves or vibrant microgreens sprinkled right after baking add a burst of color and mild herbal notes that complement the rich toppings beautifully. You could also drizzle a tiny bit of balsamic glaze for a tangy counterpoint if you like.
Side Dishes
To keep the meal balanced, serve alongside a light green salad with lemon vinaigrette or a simple arugula salad tossed with olive oil and parmesan. A crisp white wine or sparkling water with citrus makes a refreshing partner for this flavor-packed pizza.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the pizza into small, appetizer-sized squares topped with a tiny basil leaf for parties. Alternatively, serve it as a rustic open-faced rectangular pizza directly on a wooden board for a cozy family-style vibe that’s perfect for sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover slices tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents the crust from becoming soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover pizza slices individually wrapped in foil and then placed in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to keep the toppings intact.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the crust chewy and the toppings less vibrant.
FAQs
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Can I use other types of cheese in this Apple Cheddar Rosemary Bacon Pizza Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar provides a nice sharpness, you can experiment with gouda, fontina, or even a creamy goat cheese for a different flavor profile. Just make sure the cheese melts well on pizza.
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Is it necessary to make the white sauce?
The white sauce lends a rich, creamy base that keeps the pizza moist and flavorful. However, if you prefer, you could substitute it with a simple olive oil brush or even a light layer of cream cheese, but the sauce really ties the toppings together beautifully.
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How do I keep the apples from making the pizza soggy?
Slicing the apples thinly and evenly helps them cook quickly without releasing too much juice. Also, placing the white sauce as a protective barrier on the dough helps keep the crust crisp.
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Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
You can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the bacon and adding extra cheese or some roasted nuts for crunch. Fresh rosemary and apples will keep the flavor vibrant and delicious.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Apple Cheddar Rosemary Bacon Pizza Recipe, you’ll keep coming back for more. It’s that perfect blend of cozy comfort and unexpected flavor that makes every slice feel like a celebration. So gather your ingredients, get the oven warm, and enjoy making a pizza that’s truly unforgettable!
PrintApple Cheddar Rosemary Bacon Pizza Recipe
This Apple Cheddar Rosemary Bacon Pizza features a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and herbaceous flavors. Thinly sliced golden delicious apples pair perfectly with crispy rosemary-infused bacon, sharp cheddar, and melted mozzarella, all atop a creamy white sauce on a crisp homemade or store-bought pizza dough. Garnished with fresh basil or microgreens, this unique pizza is sure to impress both family and friends.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Dough and Toppings
- 1 pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 golden delicious apples, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Basil or microgreens, for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Bacon and Seasoning
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 1/2 tablespoons rosemary, chopped
- Black pepper, to taste
White Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and spray it with non-stick cooking spray to prepare for baking the bacon.
- Bake the Bacon: Arrange the 8 slices of bacon on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle chopped rosemary and black pepper over the bacon to infuse flavor. Bake in the oven for 12 to 14 minutes until the bacon is crispy. Remove it from the oven and place on paper towels to drain excess fat. Once cooled, chop the bacon and set aside.
- Make the White Sauce: Heat a medium skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the chicken broth and whole milk while stirring continuously. Add dried oregano and continue stirring for 3 minutes until the sauce has thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
- Prepare the Pizza Base: Lightly spray another baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray. Roll out the pizza dough into a 9×13 inch rectangle on the prepared baking sheet. Spread the white sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Assemble the Pizza: Evenly distribute the thinly sliced apples over the white sauce. Sprinkle the chopped rosemary bacon pieces on top, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake the Pizza: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves or microgreens. Slice and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious Apple Cheddar Rosemary Bacon Pizza!
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, omit bacon and increase cheese and rosemary for flavor.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to make it suitable for vegetarians.
- If you prefer a crispier crust, place the pizza dough on a pizza stone instead of a baking sheet.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a stronger flavor contrast with the sweetness of the apples.
- Allow bacon to drain well on paper towels to prevent soggy pizza.
- Feel free to use fresh oregano instead of dried for a more vibrant herb flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in an oven to maintain crust crispiness.
