Hawaiian pizza is one of the most polarizing pies in the world of pizza lovers. Topped with sweet pineapple and salty ham, it’s a bold mix of flavors that either gets a loyal following or fierce rejection. But here’s the truth: when made well, Hawaiian pizza can be a truly delicious balance of sweet, savory, and cheesy goodness.
This homemade recipe ditches the canned shortcuts and brings out the best of each ingredient. Whether you’re a skeptic or a fan, this version might just win you over.
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 ½ cups warm water (around 110°F / 45°C)
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the toppings:
- ½ cup classic pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¾ cup cooked ham, chopped or shredded
- ¾ cup fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained)
- Optional: red onion slices or chili flakes for a flavor boost
Instructions
1. Make the dough
In a bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. Add flour, olive oil, and salt. Mix until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
2. Preheat and prep
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it heats. Punch down the dough and roll it into a 12–14 inch circle. Place it on a baking sheet or pizza peel.
3. Add your toppings
Spread pizza sauce evenly over the base. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously. Add ham and pineapple chunks evenly across the surface. For extra depth, consider adding thin red onion slices or a sprinkle of chili flakes.
4. Bake
Transfer the pizza to the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and lightly browned.
5. Serve
Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy the mix of flavors that might change how you feel about Hawaiian pizza.
Tips for the Best Hawaiian Pizza
- Use fresh pineapple for a more vibrant and juicy flavor.
- Don’t overload the pizza with toppings; balance is key.
- Try smoked or honey-glazed ham for added flavor complexity.
- For a crispier crust, pre-bake the dough for 5 minutes before adding toppings.
