Introduction
If you are looking for a delicious twist on traditional pizza, try making crispy fried pizzas! These mini fried pizzas are a fun and easy way to enjoy your favorite toppings with a golden, crunchy crust. Perfect as an appetizer or a main dish, they are sure to impress family and friends. Follow this simple recipe to create your own delectable fried pizzas right at home.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
– 1 package of pizza dough (e.g., DeLallo)
– Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
– Tomato sauce of choice
– Fresh mozzarella cheese
– Fresh basil and/or pesto
– Red pepper flakes
– Parmesan cheese
– Any other desired toppings
Prep Time
45 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 6 mini pizzas
Instructions
1. **Prepare the Dough:** Follow the package instructions to make the pizza dough. Allow it to rise as directed (for DeLallo pizza dough, the rise time is 45 minutes).
2. **Divide and Shape:** Split the risen dough into six equal portions. Roll each into a ball and flatten into a pizza shape, approximately 6-8 inches in diameter and about 1/2 inch thick around the edges.
3. **Heat the Oil:** In a large cast iron skillet, pour oil to a depth of about 1 inch. Heat over medium-low heat. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small amount of water into it; if it sizzles or bubbles, the oil is at the correct temperature.
4. **Fry the Dough:** Carefully place one shaped dough into the hot oil. Fry for 30 seconds to 1 minute until it turns light golden brown. Flip using tongs and fry the other side similarly. Once done, transfer to a paper towel-lined pan to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining dough portions.
5. **Add Toppings and Bake:** Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Spread tomato sauce over each fried dough base, then add fresh mozzarella and any other desired toppings. Place the pizzas on a baking sheet and bake for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. **Garnish and Serve:** Once baked, top each pizza with fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of pesto, red pepper flakes, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve warm and enjoy your crispy fried pizzas.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Dough
Follow the package instructions to make the pizza dough. Allow it to rise as directed (for DeLallo pizza dough, the rise time is 45 minutes).
Divide and Shape
Split the risen dough into six equal portions. Roll each into a ball and flatten into a pizza shape, approximately 6-8 inches in diameter and about 1/2 inch thick around the edges.
Heat the Oil
In a large cast iron skillet, pour oil to a depth of about 1 inch. Heat over medium-low heat. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small amount of water into it; if it sizzles or bubbles, the oil is at the correct temperature.
Fry the Dough
Carefully place one shaped dough into the hot oil. Fry for 30 seconds to 1 minute until it turns light golden brown. Flip using tongs and fry the other side similarly. Once done, transfer to a paper towel-lined pan to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining dough portions.
Add Toppings and Bake
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Spread tomato sauce over each fried dough base, then add fresh mozzarella and any other desired toppings. Place the pizzas on a baking sheet and bake for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve
Once baked, top each pizza with fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of pesto, red pepper flakes, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve warm and enjoy your crispy fried pizzas.
Notes
Oil Temperature
Ensure the oil is heated properly to avoid soggy dough.
Dough Rising
If the dough does not rise well, check the yeast expiration date and ensure the environment is warm.
Cheese Options
Feel free to substitute fresh mozzarella with shredded mozzarella or other cheese varieties based on your preference.
Topping Variations
Consider adding pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives for more flavor.
Cook techniques
Preparing Dough
Follow the instructions provided on the pizza dough package. Ensure that you allow enough time for the dough to rise properly, as specified, to achieve the best texture.
Dividing and Shaping
Once the dough has risen, divide it into equal portions. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten it out to the desired pizza shape and thickness, ensuring even edges for cooking.
Heating the Oil
Heat the oil in a cast iron skillet to a depth of about 1 inch over medium-low heat. To confirm that the oil is at the right temperature, drop a small amount of water into it; a sizzle or bubble indicates it’s ready for frying.
Frying the Dough
Carefully add the shaped dough into the hot oil. Fry on each side until golden brown, using tongs to flip them safely. After frying, transfer the dough onto paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Adding Toppings and Baking
Once the dough is fried, spread your choice of tomato sauce over the surface, then add fresh mozzarella and any other desired toppings. Bake these prepared pizzas in a preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnishing and Serving
After baking, garnish the pizzas with fresh basil, a drizzle of pesto, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan cheese before serving warm.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Yes, you can use any available store-bought pizza dough. Just follow the package instructions for best results.
What type of oil is best for frying?
Vegetable oil or canola oil works best for frying due to their high smoke points.
How can I tell if the oil is hot enough?
Drop a small amount of water into the oil; if it sizzles or bubbles, the temperature is appropriate for frying.
What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?
You can use any cheese of your choice, such as provolone, cheddar, or a cheese blend, although it may alter the flavor profile.
Can I make these pizzas with gluten-free dough?
Yes, gluten-free pizza dough can be used as a substitute, but check cooking instructions as they may vary by brand.
How do I store leftover fried pizzas?
Store leftover fried pizzas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Conclusion
Crispy fried pizzas offer a delightful twist on traditional pizza, combining the rich flavors of fresh mozzarella, basil, and your choice of toppings with a satisfying crunch. These easy-to-make treats can be customized to suit your taste preferences and are sure to impress friends and family alike.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Margherita Pizza
Top with tomato sauce, sliced fresh mozzarella, and fresh basil for a classic flavor.
Pesto Chicken Pizza
Spread pesto instead of tomato sauce and add cooked chicken and mozzarella for a delicious combination.
Spicy Pepperoni Pizza
Layer with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and plenty of pepperoni, sprinkling red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Veggie Delight Pizza
Add assorted vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms on top of the tomato sauce and cheese.
Caprese Pizza
Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce, top with mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, and fresh basil.
Buffalo Cauliflower Pizza
Use buffalo sauce as your base, top with fried cauliflower, mozzarella, and drizzle ranch dressing after baking.
Four Cheese Pizza
Combine mozzarella, Parmesan, Gorgonzola, and goat cheese for a rich and flavorful pizza experience.
Breakfast Pizza
Top with scrambled eggs, cheese, and your preference of breakfast meats or vegetables for a morning treat.
