This rustic-style pizza offers an irresistible blend of creamy, smoky, and sweet flavors. With a base of crème fraîche or ricotta, tangy goat cheese rounds, crisp bacon, and deeply caramelized onions, this Goat Cheese and Bacon Pizza with Caramelized Onion brings gourmet flair to your table. Whether you’re hosting a pizza night or looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers indulgent comfort with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pizza is a perfect harmony of textures and flavors—crisp, chewy crust topped with smooth cheese, crispy bacon, and velvety onions. The contrast between tangy goat cheese and the richness of bacon makes every bite exciting. It’s quick to assemble, highly customizable, and suitable for both casual meals and special occasions.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• crème fraîche or ricotta
• goat cheese
• shredded mozzarella cheese
• cooked bacon strips or lardons
• onion
• olive oil
• salt and pepper
• optional: fresh thyme or arugula for garnish

directions

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a pizza stone or an inverted baking sheet in the oven while it heats.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the sliced onion in olive oil for 8–10 minutes, or until soft and golden brown. Season with a pinch of salt.
3. Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your preferred shape and thickness. Transfer to a sheet of parchment paper.
4. Spread a thin layer of crème fraîche or ricotta over the dough as your base sauce.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the top, then layer with caramelized onions, goat cheese slices, and cooked bacon pieces.
6. Carefully transfer the pizza (with the parchment) onto the preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
7. Remove from oven, let cool for a couple of minutes, and garnish with fresh thyme or arugula if desired. Slice and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2 to 4 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add a drizzle of honey: A touch of honey just before serving complements the tangy and salty flavors beautifully.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the bacon and add roasted mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for added umami.
• Use a garlic oil base: Instead of crème fraîche, brush the dough with garlic-infused olive oil for a lighter, aromatic alternative.
• Add nuts: Toasted walnuts or pine nuts add a pleasant crunch and richness.
• Try flavored goat cheese: Herb or pepper-encrusted goat cheese can enhance the flavor complexity.

storage/reheating

Store leftover pizza in an airtight container or wrapped in foil in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8–10 minutes until warmed through and crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it may result in a soggy crust.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, store-bought dough is convenient and works well. Let it come to room temperature before rolling for best results.

What kind of goat cheese should I use?

A soft, fresh goat cheese log is ideal for this recipe. You can slice it into rounds or crumble it.

Can I prepare the pizza in advance?

You can prepare and assemble the pizza a few hours ahead and refrigerate it. Bake just before serving for the best texture.

What is a good substitute for crème fraîche?

Ricotta cheese, mascarpone, or a mix of sour cream and cream cheese are suitable alternatives.

How do I know when the onions are caramelized?

They should be soft, golden brown, and slightly sweet, which takes about 8–10 minutes of sautéing over medium heat.

Is this pizza freezer-friendly?

It is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze baked slices wrapped tightly in foil. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Can I add vegetables to this pizza?

Yes, vegetables like spinach, roasted red peppers, or mushrooms complement the existing flavors well.

What type of bacon works best?

Thick-cut bacon or pancetta offers a satisfying bite and crisps nicely without becoming too brittle.

Can I use a pizza peel and stone?

Absolutely. Using a pizza peel and stone gives the crust a superior texture, especially with high oven heat.

What wine pairs well with this pizza?

A light red like Pinot Noir or a dry white such as Sauvignon Blanc pairs nicely with the tangy and rich elements.

Conclusion

Goat Cheese and Bacon Pizza with Caramelized Onion is a sophisticated take on a classic comfort food. With its bold flavor profile and gourmet presentation, it’s sure to impress without requiring complicated techniques. Ideal for both weeknight dinners and entertaining, this pizza brings together indulgence and simplicity in one unforgettable dish.

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