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Hot honey garlic bread pizza is pure comfort on a baking tray. Imagine your favorite cheesy garlic bread made even more drool-worthy with a bubbling layer of mozzarella and ricotta, all finished with a sweet fiery lash of hot honey. It comes together fast, disappears even faster, and is easy to adjust with whatever you have on hand. When we served this for game night, everyone fought for the last slice – not a crumb was left.
I first whipped this up on a Friday when everyone wanted pizza but no one wanted to wait on dough. Now it is my go-to for movie nights or when cravings strike out of nowhere because it is so low fuss.
Ingredients
- Garlic bread loaf: Go for a thick sturdy loaf to hold all those toppings I usually choose store bakery bread for the best texture
- Shredded mozzarella: Melts beautifully and gives that classic pizza stretch Look for whole milk mozzarella for richness
- Ricotta cheese: Creamy and slightly sweet It keeps the pizza moist and balances the spice Try using fresh ricotta from the cheese section if available
- Olive oil: Brings the flavors together and helps the garlic and herbs bloom Good quality extra virgin oil is worth it
- Fresh garlic: Cloves bring bold garlicky punch Use fresh over jarred for the best aroma
- Red pepper flakes: Add heat without overpowering Feel free to dial up or down to your taste
- Dried oregano: Classic pizzeria note Make sure it is not faded or too old for best results
- Salt and black pepper: Balances flavors Always season generously
- Hot honey: This is the magic ingredient Sweet spicy and makes everything addictive You can use store honey or make your own by simmering honey with a little chili
- Fresh basil: Brings color and a bright finish Use just-picked for the most flavor
- Grated Parmesan: Sharp finish that ties it all together Shred from a wedge if you can
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Garlic Bread:
- Bake the garlic bread at four hundred degrees Fahrenheit until it is just lightly toasted on top but the inside is still a bit soft about five to seven minutes This sets the base so it stays crispy without burning later
- Make the Garlic Oil:
- Combine olive oil minced garlic red pepper flakes oregano salt and black pepper in a small bowl Let it sit for a minute so the flavors infuse
- Top the Bread:
- Spread the garlic oil mixture all over the toasted garlic bread Make sure to reach the edges
- Add the Cheese:
- Drop spoonfuls of ricotta evenly over the bread then gently spread it out Sprinkle the mozzarella on top making a thick even layer
- Bake the Pizza:
- Return topped bread to the oven Bake for ten to twelve minutes until the cheese is melting bubbling and turning golden brown
- Finish with Hot Honey:
- The moment the pizza comes out drizzle it all over with hot honey Let it sit a minute so the honey soaks into the cheese
- Slice and Serve:
- Cut into pieces Garnish with fresh basil and sprinkle with Parmesan Serve warm while the cheese is gooey
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You Must Know
- Excellent appetizer or main
- Keeps well for quick lunches
- You can use leftover bread
My favorite part is the sweet kick of hot honey melting into the cheese It was a fun discovery when my youngest asked for honey on her slice and now it is a steady request
Storage Tips
Store extra slices in an airtight container in the fridge They reheat best in a toaster oven so the bread stays crisp and the cheese softens nicely Avoid microwave if possible for the best texture If freezing wrap tightly in foil and use within one month
Ingredient Substitutions
- If you do not have ricotta cottage cheese is a good alternative and still gives that creamy layer
- Swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack for a slightly different melt
- For the honey use regular and mix in a pinch of chili or hot sauce if you do not have hot honey ready
Serving Suggestions
This pizza works great cut into strips for appetizers or party snacks Pair with a green salad and you have a quick full meal It is delicious with cold drinks and makes an easy finger food for gatherings
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of bread works best for this dish?
A sturdy garlic bread loaf holds up well under toppings and creates the perfect crispy, flavorful base.
- → Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and ricotta create a creamy, melty layer, feel free to use provolone, fontina, or even goat cheese for variation.
- → How do I make hot honey at home?
Combine honey with red pepper flakes and gently heat until infused. Cool slightly before drizzling for the perfect sweet-spicy kick.
- → Can this be made ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can assemble in advance. Bake and add hot honey just before serving for best texture and flavor.
- → What are some great toppings?
Fresh basil, grated Parmesan, or even sliced jalapeños work beautifully as final touches for added flavor and freshness.