Hawaiian pizza, with its sweet and savory combination of pineapple and ham, is a polarizing dish—some love it, while others are not fans. But one thing is for sure: it’s a unique and delicious twist on the traditional pizza. If you’re looking to make a Hawaiian pizza from scratch, you’ve come to the right place. This recipe will guide you through making this tropical treat in your own kitchen, with a perfectly golden crust, tangy tomato sauce, melty cheese, and that signature pineapple-ham combination.

Ingredients

For the Pizza Dough:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings:

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup cooked ham, diced
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
• Optional: Fresh basil or arugula for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pizza Dough

To begin, activate the yeast. In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly.

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix the ingredients with a wooden spoon until the dough begins to form. Once combined, knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic.

After kneading, place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

2. Make the Tomato Sauce

While the dough is rising, prepare the tomato sauce. Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to develop. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.

3. Assemble the Pizza

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Punch down the dough to release the air bubbles, then transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out to your desired thickness, about 12 inches in diameter.

Place the rolled-out dough on a pizza stone or a baking sheet. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top of the sauce.

Next, add the diced ham and pineapple chunks. Be sure to distribute them evenly to get a good balance of savory ham and sweet pineapple in each bite.

4. Bake the Pizza

Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. If you prefer a crispier crust, leave it in the oven for a few extra minutes.

5. Garnish and Serve

After baking, let the pizza cool for a couple of minutes before slicing. You can garnish with fresh basil or arugula for a pop of color and added freshness if desired.

Slice, serve, and enjoy your tropical Hawaiian pizza!

Tips for the Best Hawaiian Pizza

• Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is preferred for a juicy and sweet topping, but if you use canned pineapple, be sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture on the pizza.
• Ham: Use high-quality cooked ham for the best flavor. If you want a slightly smoky flavor, you could also use smoked ham.
• Cheese: For an extra creamy texture, consider using a mix of mozzarella and provolone cheese.
• Crispier Crust: If you prefer a crispier crust, use a pizza stone and preheat it in the oven. This will give you that perfect crispy texture.

Conclusion

Hawaiian pizza is a unique and flavorful dish that blends tropical sweetness with savory ham and melted cheese. It’s a great option for those who love to experiment with pizza toppings or just want something a little different from the traditional choices. By following this easy recipe, you can enjoy a homemade Hawaiian pizza anytime. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a pizza night with friends, or simply craving a tropical slice, this pizza is sure to satisfy!

Happy cooking! 🍍🍕