Introduction
This delightful artichoke and spinach pizza is a twist on traditional pizza, combining creamy textures and rich flavors. Packed with vegetables and gooey cheese, it’s a perfect dish for gatherings or a cozy night in. Easy to prepare and sure to impress, this recipe is a must-try for fans of inventive pizza creations.
Ingredients
1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
2 cups baby spinach, chopped
½ cup sour cream
½ cup whipped cream cheese
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan
¼ cup yellow cornmeal
1 (13.8-ounce) can refrigerated classic pizza crust
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
15-20 minutes
Total Time
30-35 minutes
Yield
1 pizza
With these simple instructions, you can create a scrumptious pizza that will be a hit among friends and family alike. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 450 degrees F (232 degrees C). Lightly coat a baking sheet or pizza pan with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Artichoke Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained and chopped artichoke hearts, chopped baby spinach, sour cream, whipped cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season this mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Gently stir in ¼ cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese, then set the mixture aside.
Step 3: Roll Out the Pizza Dough
On a clean surface that is generously sprinkled with yellow cornmeal, roll out the refrigerated pizza dough into a round shape with a diameter of approximately 12 inches. Carefully transfer the rolled dough onto the prepared baking sheet or pizza pan.
Step 4: Assemble the Pizza
Evenly spread the prepared artichoke mixture over the surface of the pizza dough. Sprinkle the remaining ¾ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the artichoke mixture to create a cheesy layer.
Step 5: Bake the Pizza
Place the assembled pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and remove the pizza once the crust turns golden brown, and the cheeses are melted and bubbling.
Step 6: Serve the Pizza
Once baked, take the pizza out of the oven and allow it to cool for a moment. Serve immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
Storage
Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispness.
Variations
Feel free to customize the toppings by adding ingredients like cooked chicken or different cheese varieties for additional flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This pizza pairs well with a light salad or a side of your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Cook techniques
Preheating the Oven
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F to ensure even cooking and a crispy crust.
Preparing Ingredients
Drain and chop the artichoke hearts and baby spinach prior to mixing, ensuring a consistent texture in the final dish.
Mixing the Preparation
Combine the artichoke hearts, spinach, sour cream, cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and onion powder in a large bowl. This mixture needs to be well-blended for even flavor distribution.
Seasoning
Taste the mixture before baking and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance flavor.
Rolling Dough
On a surface sprinkled with cornmeal, roll out the pizza dough to a 12-inch diameter. Cornmeal adds texture and prevents sticking.
Layering
Spread the artichoke mixture evenly over the rolled pizza dough, then top with shredded mozzarella cheese to ensure a cheesy, flavorful topping.
Baking
Bake the assembled pizza in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted, ensuring a deliciously cooked pizza.
Garnishing
Once out of the oven, serve the pizza immediately, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
FAQ
Can I use fresh artichokes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh artichokes, but they will require more preparation time.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream, offering a similar tangy flavor.
Can I make this pizza ahead of time?
You can prepare the topping mixture ahead of time, but it’s best to bake the pizza fresh for optimal texture.
What are some alternatives to mozzarella cheese?
You can use other cheeses like provolone or gouda for different flavor profiles.
How can I make the crust healthier?
Consider using whole wheat pizza dough or a cauliflower crust as a healthier alternative.
Conclusion
Indulging in this delectable artichoke and spinach pizza is a perfect choice for gatherings or a cozy night in. The creamy mixture combined with melted cheeses and a crispy crust delivers a delightful experience that will please any palate. It’s easy to prepare and offers a great balance of flavors, making it a standout dish.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spinach Feta Pizza
Combine chopped spinach with crumbled feta cheese, olives, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a Mediterranean twist.
Chicken Alfredo Flatbread
Use a Alfredo sauce as the base, topped with grilled chicken, mozzarella, and finished with fresh basil after baking.
Mushroom Parmesan Pizza
Sauté mushrooms with garlic and thyme; spread over the crust and top with Parmesan and mozzarella for an earthy flavor.
Pesto Veggie Pizza
Spread pesto sauce on the crust, and top with assorted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and artichokes for a fresh, vibrant dish.
Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Mix shredded chicken with buffalo sauce, add mozzarella cheese, and top with ranch dressing after baking for a spicy kick.
Three-Cheese White Pizza
Combine ricotta, mozzarella, and goat cheese as toppings for a rich and creamy pizza, great with a hint of garlic and herbs.
