How to Make the Perfect Hawaiian Pizza: A Comprehensive Guide

Hawaiian pizza is a beloved dish that combines the classic flavors of mozzarella cheese, tomato sauce, and ham, with the tropical sweetness of pineapple. This article will walk you through every step of making the perfect Hawaiian pizza, from preparing the pizza dough to perfecting the combination of toppings.

Part 1: Preparing the Pizza Dough

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Before you begin making your pizza, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Remove any baking pans from the oven and place the oven rack on the center rung. This ensures that the pizza will cook evenly and prevent the dough from burning.

Step 2: Coat the Pizza Pan with Olive Oil

Cover a 12-inch round pizza pan with 1 tablespoon (22 mL) of olive oil. Use your fingers or a pastry brush to spread the oil evenly across the inside of the pan. This will prevent the dough from sticking and add flavor to the bottom of the pizza.

Step 3: Dust the Pizza Pan with Flour

Sprinkle 1 tablespoon (9 g) of flour over the oil-coated pizza pan. Use your fingers to distribute the flour until the pan is completely dusted. This will help the finished pizza slide off the pan easily and season the bottom of the pizza.

Step 4: Roll Out the Pizza Dough

Purchase store-bought pizza dough from your local grocery store or a pizzeria. Roll out the dough on your countertop, dusted with flour, using a rolling pin. Start from the center and work outward until the dough is roughly the size and shape of your pan. Alternatively, you can make homemade pizza dough for a unique experience.

Part 2: Layering the Pizza Toppings

Step 1: Season the Dough with Olive Oil

Spread 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of olive oil evenly across the dough surface. This will keep the dough moist and season it. Use a pastry brush or your fingers to ensure the oil is well distributed.

Step 2: Spread Marinara Sauce

Use a spoon to spread 2 cups (120 mL) of jarred marinara sauce over the dough, about 4 inches (0.64 cm) away from the edges. This prevents the sauce from bubbling over and burning. Use a homemade sauce if desired.

Step 3: Add Cheese

Sprinkle 2 cups (200 g) of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. You can add additional cheese such as Swiss, cheddar, or Parmigiano-Reggiano to create unique flavors. For a sharp flavor, use 1 cup (100 g) mozzarella and 1 cup (100 g) Swiss or cheddar. For a tangy flavor, use 1.5 cups (150 g) mozzarella and 0.5 cups (50 g) Parmigiano-Reggiano.

Step 4: Add Ham

Cut 4 oz (110 g) of ham into 1-inch (2.5 cm) squares and distribute it evenly over the cheese. Opt for smoked ham or Canadian bacon to enhance the flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, use thick slices of ham.

Step 5: Add Pineapple

Scatter 1 cup (165 g) of canned pineapple chunks over the ham. Hold the pineapple inside the can and drain the juice before adding it to the pizza. Cut the pineapple into halves or quarters if you prefer easier bites. This step adds the signature tropical sweetness to your Hawaiian pizza.

Part 3: Cooking and Serving the Pizza

Step 1: Bake the Pizza

Cook the pizza in the preheated oven for 8-12 minutes. Slide the pizza pan onto the middle rack and check for doneness. The crust should be a light golden-brown color, and the cheese should be evenly melted. Additional cooking time may be needed for a crispier crust.

Step 2: Transfer and Rest the Pizza

Remove the pizza from the oven using potholders and a heat-resistant spatula. Transfer it to a cutting board. Allow the pizza to rest for 4-5 minutes so the cheese can set. This prevents the toppings from sliding off when you cut the pizza.

Step 3: Cut and Serve the Pizza

Cut the pizza into 6-8 slices using a pizza wheel or a large sharp knife. Season each slice with table salt, ground black pepper, or red pepper flakes to taste. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator in aluminum foil for up to a week.