Canadian Pizza Recipe: Make This Delicious Homemade Classic Tonight

Photo of author
Written By Nittany Pizza

Vegan friendly pizza shop. Featuring our unique BTO (Baked To Order) Sandwiches. Offering dairy free Daiya cheese, mock meats and a gluten free crust. The World’s First Philly Steak Burrito. Pioneer in Vegan Pizza and Burrito Delivery since 2012. Pennsylvania’s Favorite Pan Pizza! Tasty Wings too!

Craving a slice that’s bold, hearty, and packed with flavor? Canadian pizza is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that combines smoky, savory toppings with a perfectly crisp crust. Whether you’re a die-hard pizza lover or just looking to try something new, this recipe will have you hooked from the very first bite.

What sets Canadian pizza apart is its irresistible combination of toppings—think smoky bacon, pepperoni, and a rich layer of gooey cheese. It’s comfort food at its finest, and the best part? You can make it right in your own kitchen. Skip the takeout and treat yourself to a homemade masterpiece that’s bursting with flavor and made just the way you like it.

Ingredients

Ingredients
Ingredients

To create an irresistible Canadian pizza, you’ll need a selection of fresh and flavorful ingredients. Below is a breakdown of everything you’ll require for the dough, toppings, and sauce.

For The Pizza Dough

  • 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water (110°F)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For The Toppings

  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 15 to 20 slices of pepperoni
  • 6 slices smoky bacon (cooked and crumbled)

For The Sauce

  • ½ cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
  • ¼ cup thinly sliced green onions
  • 1 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)

Equipment Needed

To make your Canadian pizza at home, you will need some essential tools to ensure the process is smooth and efficient. Start with a large mixing bowl for preparing and kneading the dough. A measuring cup and measuring spoons are important to accurately measure your ingredients, ensuring consistency in flavor and texture.

You’ll also need a rolling pin to evenly roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness. Use a pizza pan or a baking sheet, preferably non-stick, to bake the pizza. Alternatively, a pizza stone can be used for a crispier crust. A silicone baking mat or parchment paper helps prevent sticking if you’re not using a non-stick surface.

Have a sharp knife or a pizza cutter ready for slicing your finished pizza. Tongs or a spatula will be useful for transferring the pizza onto your serving surface. Finally, don’t forget a pastry brush to apply olive oil to the dough for additional flavor and a nice golden finish.

Directions

Directions
Directions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create the perfect Canadian pizza at home. Each step is designed to guide you through the process with ease.

Prep The Dough

Start by combining 3 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast in a large mixing bowl. Gradually pour in 1 ¼ cups of warm water and 2 tablespoons of olive oil while mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Make The Sauce

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in 1 cup of canned crushed tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove it from heat and let it cool while you prepare the other components.

Prepare The Toppings

Slice 1 cup of pepperoni thinly and cook 6 slices of smoky bacon until crispy. Crumble the bacon into small pieces and set it aside. Grate 2 cups of mozzarella cheese and 1 cup of cheddar cheese. If using optional toppings, slice 1 cup of mushrooms and chop ¼ cup of green onions. Keep all toppings organized for easy assembly later.

Assemble The Pizza

Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll one portion into a 12-inch circle on a floured surface. Place the rolled dough onto a pizza pan or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread ½ cup of the prepared pizza sauce evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the sauce. Layer the pepperoni slices, crumbled bacon, and optional toppings such as mushrooms and green onions over the cheese.

Bake The Pizza

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) along with a pizza stone if using. Once preheated, transfer the pizza to the middle rack of the oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Remove the pizza from the oven carefully and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into it. Repeat the process with the second portion of dough or save it for another pizza night.

Tips For The Perfect Canadian Pizza

Tips For The Perfect Canadian Pizza
Tips For The Perfect Canadian Pizza

Start with high-quality ingredients to ensure each bite bursts with flavor. Select fresh mozzarella and cheddar cheese for a creamy, gooey texture that balances the smoky bacon and spicy pepperoni. Opt for a robust pizza sauce with rich, tangy flavors to complement the toppings.

Pay close attention to your dough. Make sure to knead it thoroughly for at least 8 to 10 minutes to develop elasticity. Allowing the dough to rise for at least an hour in a warm environment ensures a light and fluffy crust. For convenience, a pre-made store-bought dough can also work, but homemade adds an extra touch.

Heat your oven to a high temperature, around 475°F, for a crisp crust and evenly baked toppings. If you have a pizza stone, preheat it along with the oven to replicate a pizzeria-style result. Using a pizza pan or baking sheet can work just as well if you don’t have a stone.

Layering the toppings helps distribute flavors perfectly. Apply an even layer of sauce right up to the edges, ensuring every slice is flavorful. Spread the cheese generously, but avoid overloading it to prevent sogginess. Arrange the pepperoni and bacon evenly for a harmonious blend of smokiness and spice.

Don’t forget to pre-cook your bacon until it’s slightly crispy. This step renders out extra fat and prevents a greasy pie. Thinly slice any additional vegetables like mushrooms or green onions so they cook evenly with the rest of the pizza.

For added flavor, sprinkle oregano or garlic powder over the assembled pizza before baking. A light drizzle of olive oil on the crust can boost the golden, crisp texture. If you enjoy a spicy kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can enhance the overall flavor profile.

Allowing the pizza to rest for 5 minutes before slicing ensures the cheese sets, making for neater slices. Use a sharp pizza cutter to achieve clean, professional-looking cuts. Serve your Canadian pizza warm and enjoy its delightful combination of textures and flavors.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Make Ahead Instructions
Make Ahead Instructions

Preparing elements of your Canadian pizza in advance can save time and make assembly easier. Start by making the pizza dough ahead of time. After kneading the dough and letting it rise, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or freeze it for later use. If freezing, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a resealable freezer bag. Thaw frozen dough overnight in the refrigerator before using.

You can also prepare the pizza sauce in advance. Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze it for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw the sauce in the refrigerator and allow it to reach room temperature before applying it to your pizza.

To save even more time, cook the smoky bacon ahead of time. After cooking, let the bacon cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Similarly, slice the pepperoni and chop any optional vegetables, such as mushrooms or green onions, and store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator.

Pre-grate both mozzarella and cheddar cheese and keep them covered tightly in the fridge. Use a zip-top bag or sealed container to ensure they stay fresh until you’re ready to use them.

When you’re ready to assemble the Canadian pizza, having these prepped and stored ingredients will speed up the process and make it stress-free.

Conclusion

Making your own Canadian pizza at home is a rewarding and delicious experience. From crafting the dough to layering the toppings just the way you like, every step adds a personal touch to this classic favorite. By using fresh, high-quality ingredients and following the tips provided, you can create a pizza that’s bursting with flavor and perfectly crispy.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a cozy night in, this recipe lets you enjoy a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your kitchen. So roll up your sleeves, get creative with your toppings, and savor every bite of your homemade Canadian pizza masterpiece!

Related Posts:

Leave a Comment