Why This BLT Pizza Will Be Your New Favorite

This BLT pizza isn’t just another recipe; it’s an experience that reinvents a classic and brings excitement to your kitchen. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your regular rotation:

• All the Irresistible Classic Flavors: This recipe ingeniously captures the essence of a BLT with just five core toppings. Every bite delivers that perfect balance of salty, savory bacon, crisp, refreshing lettuce, and sweet, juicy tomatoes, all brought together with a creamy, garlicky aioli. It’s a flavor profile that’s universally loved and incredibly satisfying, proving that sometimes, simplicity is truly the key to deliciousness.
• Achieve the Perfect Crispy Base, Every Time: The foundation of any great pizza is its crust. We’ll guide you through achieving a wonderfully crisp yet chewy base that stands up beautifully to the vibrant toppings. For those who love homemade, I recommend my go-to easy no-knead pizza dough recipe, a versatile favorite that consistently delivers fantastic results for everything from a traditional pepperoni pizza to a gourmet Philly cheesesteak pizza. You can even prepare a double batch and freeze half for a spontaneous pizza night later on!
• Effortlessly Easy to Make: Despite its gourmet appeal, this BLT pizza is surprisingly quick and simple to assemble, rivaling the speed of making the sandwich itself. Whether you opt for a homemade dough or grab a ready-made crust from the store, the process is streamlined to get a fantastic meal on the table without fuss. It’s the ideal recipe for busy weeknights or when you crave something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Perfect for Summer Gatherings: Featuring fresh lettuce and ripe tomatoes, this pizza is especially wonderful during the warmer months. It’s a lighter option than some traditional pizzas, making it a great choice for outdoor dining, picnics, or casual summer dinners.

Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect BLT Pizza

Crafting the perfect BLT pizza doesn’t require a long list of exotic ingredients. In fact, its beauty lies in the simplicity and quality of a few key components. My recipe focuses on a fantastic pizza base complemented by a select group of toppings that deliver maximum flavor impact. Instead of traditional mayonnaise, we elevate the experience with a rich garlic aioli, which introduces a wonderful creamy, pungent depth that truly sets this pizza apart. Below are detailed notes on each ingredient; remember, the exact quantities can be found in the comprehensive, printable recipe card at the end of this post.

• Monterey Jack Cheese: This cheese is a stellar choice for its mild, buttery flavor and excellent melting properties, ensuring a gooey, delicious layer. However, don’t hesitate to experiment with other varieties. Cheddar cheese can add a sharper, tangier note, while mozzarella offers that classic stretchy, mild pizza cheese experience. For a truly elevated melt and flavor, I always recommend freshly shredded cheese over pre-packaged options. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can hinder smooth melting, resulting in a less desirable texture.
• Garlic Aioli: This is where we take the BLT experience to the next level! While a classic BLT sandwich relies on simple mayonnaise, infusing it with garlic transforms it into a vibrant, flavorful aioli that perfectly complements the other ingredients. You can easily make your own homemade garlic aioli for the freshest taste, or opt for a good quality store-bought version for convenience. If you prefer a different creamy base, homemade mayonnaise or even a savory ranch dressing can also serve as delicious alternatives, each adding its unique character to the pizza.
• Crisp Romaine Lettuce: The refreshing crunch of chopped romaine lettuce is crucial for authentic BLT texture. It provides a cool, crisp counterpoint to the warm, cheesy base and savory bacon. Make sure to add it after the pizza bakes to maintain its freshness and avoid wilting. Other excellent greens you might consider include crisp iceberg lettuce for maximum crunch, or tender butter lettuce for a softer texture.
• Perfectly Cooked Bacon: What’s a BLT without the B? The bacon should be cooked to a perfect crispness and then crumbled or chopped into bite-sized pieces. There are several ways to achieve this: for a quick and less messy method, I often use my air fryer to cook bacon, which yields beautifully crispy results. Alternatively, baking it in the oven or frying it on the stovetop are equally effective. Thick-cut bacon adds a more substantial texture, while thinly sliced varieties provide a delicate crisp.
• Ripe, Juicy Tomatoes: The tomato adds a burst of freshness and acidity that balances the richness of the bacon and cheese. Roma tomatoes are my preferred choice due to their firm flesh and lower water content, which prevents the pizza from becoming soggy. However, any plump, ripe tomato will work beautifully. For a sweeter, more intense flavor, consider using halved cherry or grape tomatoes, which also add a lovely visual appeal to the finished pizza.

Achieving the Perfect Foundation: How to Par-Bake Your Pizza Crust

The secret to a truly outstanding homemade pizza, especially one loaded with delicious toppings like our BLT masterpiece, lies in a perfectly prepared crust. A soggy or undercooked base can ruin even the best toppings. That’s why par-baking, or partially baking, the crust beforehand is a crucial step. It’s much like blind-baking a pie crust before adding the filling – it ensures a sturdy, crispy foundation that can proudly support all the flavors without collapsing. I personally swear by my incredibly simple no-knead homemade pizza dough, and often keep batches in the freezer for impromptu pizza nights. Whether you’re using homemade or store-bought dough, this par-baking technique is a game-changer.

• Preparation is Key: Begin by preheating your oven to a robust 450ºF (232ºC). While the oven comes to temperature, prepare your baking surface. Lightly grease a large baking sheet or your trusty pizza stone with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Then, generously dust the surface with cornmeal. This seemingly small step is essential; the cornmeal creates a non-stick barrier and adds that signature, delightful crunch reminiscent of authentic pizzeria crusts, enhancing both flavor and texture.
• Roll and Transfer the Dough: Carefully roll out your chosen pizza dough – be it fresh homemade or a convenient store-bought option – into a roughly 12-inch circular shape. Once rolled, gently transfer this dough to your prepared baking tray. Before baking, take a fork and generously prick the entire surface of the dough. This allows steam to escape during the initial bake, preventing large bubbles from forming and ensuring an even, flat crust.
• The Initial Bake & Olive Oil Finish: Place your prepped pizza base into the preheated oven and bake for exactly 5 minutes. This brief bake is enough to set the crust, initiating the crisping process. Once removed from the oven, immediately brush the entire par-baked crust evenly with a tablespoon of good quality olive oil. The olive oil not only adds a wonderful flavor but also helps the crust brown beautifully and develop an even crisper texture in the subsequent bake. At this point, your crust is perfectly primed and ready for its delicious BLT toppings!

Note on Store-Bought Crusts: Many pre-made pizza crusts available in stores come fully baked and ready to use, which means you can often skip the par-baking steps entirely and proceed directly to assembly. Always check the package instructions for your specific product. However, if you’re using store-bought dough that requires baking, or if you prefer an extra-crispy base even with a pre-baked crust, you can absolutely apply this same par-baking technique to achieve superior results.

Assembling Your Delectable BLT Pizza: Step-by-Step

Bringing this BLT pizza to life is a straightforward and enjoyable process. Once your crust is perfectly par-baked, the remaining steps are all about layering on those iconic BLT flavors. Follow these simple instructions to assemble a pizza that’s bursting with taste and texture. For a detailed, printable version of these steps and precise measurements, please refer to the complete recipe card located at the bottom of this page.

• Par-Bake Your Pizza Crust to Perfection: Begin by following the par-baking instructions detailed above. This crucial initial bake, followed by a light brushing of olive oil, creates the ideal crispy and sturdy foundation for your pizza. Ensure your oven is still preheated to 450ºF (232ºC) for the next stage.
• Layer on the Cheese: Once your crust is par-baked and oiled, generously spread an even layer of your chosen shredded cheese across the surface. Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or cheddar all work wonderfully, melting into a beautiful, bubbly blanket.
• Second Bake for Golden Perfection: Return your pizza, now topped with cheese, to the hot 450ºF oven. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the crust edges are beautifully golden brown and the cheese is thoroughly melted, gloriously bubbly, and perhaps even lightly browned in spots. This second bake ensures the cheese is perfectly integrated and the crust achieves its ultimate crispness.
• Apply the Creamy Aioli: Carefully remove the hot pizza from the oven. While it’s still warm, take about half of your garlic aioli (or mayonnaise/ranch, if substituting) and gently spread it evenly over the glistening, melted cheese layer. The warmth of the pizza will help the aioli spread smoothly and infuse its garlicky goodness.
• Add the Fresh BLT Toppings and Serve: Now for the grand finale! Artfully arrange your prepared, chopped bacon, fresh romaine lettuce, and diced tomatoes over the aioli-coated cheese. For an extra flourish and burst of flavor, drizzle or dollop the remaining aioli over the top. Slice your magnificent BLT pizza and serve immediately, allowing everyone to savor this unique and irresistible twist on a classic!

Perfect Pairings: Serving Your BLT Pizza

While this BLT pizza is undeniably a star dish capable of standing on its own, pairing it with complementary sides can elevate your meal into a truly memorable experience. Its rich flavors and fresh components make it versatile for a variety of accompaniments.

For a classic, comforting pairing, consider serving slices alongside a batch of perfectly crispy air fryer French fries. The crunch of the fries echoes the crispness of the bacon and lettuce, creating a delightful textural contrast. Another fantastic option for an indulgent pizza night is homemade copycat Crazy Bread, offering warm, garlicky, cheesy goodness that pizza lovers adore.

If you’re looking to add some freshness and balance to your meal, a vibrant side salad is always a great choice. A simple green tossed salad with a light vinaigrette or a more robust chicken Caesar salad can cut through the richness of the pizza, providing a refreshing counterpoint. The crispness of a good salad will also highlight the fresh ingredients on your pizza.

To complete your dining experience, quench your thirst with a refreshing beverage. A tall glass of cool raspberry lemonade offers a sweet and tart note that complements the savory pizza beautifully, especially on a warm day. And, of course, no satisfying meal is complete without a sweet finish! Ensure you save a little room for a delightful dessert like indulgent cookie dough cookies, providing the perfect sweet ending to a savory feast.

Creative Twists: Easy BLT Pizza Variations

One of the best aspects of making homemade pizza is the freedom to customize and experiment. While our classic BLT pizza recipe is fantastic as is, don’t hesitate to get creative with these simple variations to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Explore Different Sauce Bases: The garlic aioli provides a unique and delicious “white pizza” base, but you can easily change the flavor profile. For another creamy white sauce option, consider spreading a layer of my rich homemade Alfredo sauce over the crust before adding cheese. If you’re a fan of traditional red sauce pizzas, simply swap the aioli for a thin, even layer of your favorite marinara or classic pizza sauce after brushing the crust with olive oil and before topping with cheese. A vibrant pesto sauce could also offer an exciting, herbaceous twist.
• Infuse Extra Flavor into the Crust: A flavorful crust enhances the entire pizza experience. If you’re using homemade pizza dough, you have a perfect opportunity to add extra aromatics directly into the dough mix. Incorporate a teaspoon of garlic powder for a subtle savory kick, a generous pinch of Italian seasoning for an herbaceous Mediterranean touch, or a packet of ranch dressing mix for a tangy, herbaceous undertone. You can also brush the crust with garlic butter before baking for an instant flavor boost.
• Load Up on More Toppings: The BLT theme is a wonderful starting point, but it’s easily adaptable.
  • Added Protein: Boost the heartiness of your pizza by adding more protein. Consider finely chopped or shredded smoked chicken or turkey, which complement the bacon beautifully. Cooked and crumbled sausage or even grilled shrimp could also be delicious additions.
  • Vegetable Enhancements: Before baking, sprinkle finely diced red onion or thinly sliced bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor. After baking, a scattering of thinly sliced avocado adds a creamy, healthy fat element, while a handful of peppery arugula or delicate microgreens can provide a fresh, gourmet finish and a slight bitterness that contrasts wonderfully with the other rich flavors.
  • Cheese Variations: Beyond Monterey Jack, try sprinkling on some crumbled feta cheese after baking for a salty, tangy kick, or a dusting of Parmesan for a sharp, umami depth.
  • Spice It Up: For those who love a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes either before or after baking can add a delightful warmth.

Storing and Reheating Your BLT Pizza for Maximum Enjoyment

Proper storage and reheating are key to enjoying your delicious BLT pizza even after the initial meal. While leftover pizza is often a treat on its own, knowing how to store and warm it up correctly can make all the difference in maintaining its quality and flavor.

• Refrigeration: To keep your leftover BLT pizza fresh, it’s crucial to store it properly. Allow the pizza to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container or wrapping individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Stored this way, your pizza will remain delicious and safe to eat for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. For best results, consider removing the fresh lettuce and tomato before storing the pizza, as these can become soggy when refrigerated, and then add fresh ones when reheating.
• Reheating for Optimal Taste: While many people enjoy cold leftover pizza, a warm slice can be incredibly satisfying. The best method for reheating BLT pizza is in the oven or a toaster oven, as this helps to revive the crispness of the crust and melt the cheese beautifully without making it soggy.
  • Oven/Toaster Oven Method: If you stored your pizza with the fresh toppings, carefully remove the lettuce and tomato from the slices first. Place the pizza directly on a baking sheet or oven rack in a preheated oven (around 350°F or 175°C) for 8-12 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is heated through and crisp again.
  • Microwave Method: For a quick reheat, the microwave can be used, though it may result in a softer crust. Place slices on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through.
  Once the pizza is hot, add fresh lettuce and diced tomatoes to bring back that essential BLT crunch and vibrant flavor. A fresh drizzle of aioli can also revive it beautifully.

More Pizza Recipes to Discover

If you’ve enjoyed putting a creative spin on pizza night with this BLT pizza, then you’ll love exploring these other fantastic pizza creations from our kitchen:

• Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza: A savory delight packed with chicken, crispy bacon, and tangy ranch.
• Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese: The ultimate comfort food fusion – pizza meets grilled cheese!
• Mexican Pizza: A flavorful fiesta on a crust, perfect for Taco Tuesday or any day.
• Breakfast Pizza: Start your day deliciously with eggs, cheese, and your favorite breakfast meats.
• Buffalo Chicken Pizza: For those who love a little heat, this spicy and cheesy pizza is a crowd-pleaser.