Pizza Bomb at Home

David

🍽️✨ The Culinary Legacy Keeper

In our house, Friday nights are synonymous with pizza. But sometimes, we crave something a little more exciting than the usual slices. That’s when pizza bombs come to the rescue! These aren’t your average pizza bites; they are individual, perfectly portioned pockets of pizza heaven, bursting with flavor and cheesy goodness. The first time I made these, the kitchen was filled with an incredible aroma that had everyone eagerly anticipating dinner. My kids, usually picky eaters, devoured them with gusto, declaring them “way better than regular pizza!” And honestly, I have to agree. There’s something so satisfying about holding a warm, doughy bomb and biting into the molten cheese and savory fillings. Whether it’s a fun family meal, a crowd-pleasing appetizer for game day, or just a delightful snack, homemade pizza bombs are always a winner. This recipe is surprisingly simple to follow, and the customizable fillings mean you can tailor them to everyone’s taste. Get ready to transform your pizza night with these incredible homemade pizza bombs – you won’t be disappointed!

Ingredients

Here are all the ingredients you’ll need to create these mouthwatering pizza bombs at home. We’ve opted for classic pizza flavors, but feel free to get creative with your own favorite fillings!

  • Pizza Dough: 2 pounds, pre-made or homemade. The essential base of our pizza bombs. Pre-made dough is a convenient shortcut, while homemade provides superior flavor and texture. Ensure it’s pliable and easy to work with.
  • Pizza Sauce: 1 ½ cups, your preferred brand or homemade recipe. A flavorful and robust pizza sauce is key to a delicious pizza bomb. Choose your favorite style – classic marinara, spicy arrabbiata, or even a creamy pesto.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups, shredded. The quintessential pizza cheese, known for its incredible melting properties and mild, milky flavor. Low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella is recommended for optimal melting without becoming too watery.
  • Pepperoni Slices: 1 cup, sliced or diced. A classic pizza topping that adds a savory, slightly spicy kick. You can use regular or turkey pepperoni, or substitute with other cured meats like salami or prosciutto.
  • Cooked Italian Sausage (crumbled): 1 cup (optional). For those who love a meaty pizza bomb, cooked and crumbled Italian sausage adds a rich, savory depth. Ensure it’s fully cooked and crumbled into small, even pieces.
  • Green Bell Pepper (diced): ½ cup (optional). Adds a fresh, slightly sweet crunch and vibrant color to the filling. Red, yellow, or orange bell peppers can also be used for variety.
  • Onion (diced): ½ cup (optional). Contributes a savory and aromatic base note to the flavor profile. White or yellow onions are classic choices, while red onion offers a milder, slightly sweeter flavor.
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Used for brushing the pizza bombs before baking, imparting a golden-brown crust, enhanced flavor, and a slight crispness.
  • Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon. Adds a subtle but essential garlic aroma and flavor to the dough, complementing the pizza fillings beautifully.
  • Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon. A blend of dried herbs that enhances the overall pizza flavor, creating a classic Italian aromatic profile.
  • Egg Wash (1 egg + 1 tablespoon water): For a glossy, golden-brown finish. Optional, but highly recommended for visual appeal and a slightly richer, more tender crust.
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese: For sprinkling on top (optional). Adds a salty, nutty, and savory finish, as well as a slightly crispy top layer when baked.
  • Fresh Parsley (chopped): For garnish (optional). Adds a fresh, herbaceous touch and a vibrant green color, enhancing the visual appeal of the finished pizza bombs.

Instructions

Follow these detailed, step-by-step instructions to create perfect pizza bombs in your home kitchen. This recipe is designed to be easy and enjoyable, even for beginner bakers!

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature for even baking. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Parchment paper prevents sticking, makes cleanup effortless, and ensures the pizza bombs don’t burn on the bottom. Silicone baking mats are reusable and provide similar non-stick benefits.
  2. Prepare the Pizza Dough: If you are using pre-made pizza dough, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. This allows the dough to relax and become more pliable, making it easier to handle and shape without tearing. If you are using homemade dough, ensure it has completed its first rise and is ready for shaping according to your recipe instructions. Lightly flour your work surface with all-purpose flour. This prevents the dough from sticking and makes it easier to roll out and shape. Divide the pizza dough into equal portions. For standard-sized pizza bombs, aim for approximately 8-12 portions from 2 pounds of dough. This will depend on how large you prefer your pizza bombs to be. A good starting point is to divide the dough into 10-12 equal pieces for a balance of size and bake time.
  3. Shape the Dough Portions: Take one portion of dough and flatten it into a circle, approximately 4-5 inches in diameter. You can use your fingers to gently stretch the dough or use a rolling pin for a more uniform circle. Aim for the center of the circle to be slightly thicker than the edges. This is important to prevent the bottom from becoming too thin and tearing when filled, while the thinner edges will be easier to pinch and seal.
  4. Assemble the Pizza Bomb Filling: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, gently combine the pizza sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices (or diced), and any other desired fillings such as cooked Italian sausage, diced green bell pepper, and diced onion. Mix the ingredients together until they are well combined and evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep the ingredients distinct yet evenly incorporated for a good texture in the final pizza bomb.
  5. Fill the Dough Circles: Place a generous spoonful of the pizza filling, about 2-3 tablespoons, into the center of each flattened dough circle. Be mindful not to overfill the dough circles. Overfilling makes them difficult to seal properly and significantly increases the risk of the filling leaking out during baking, resulting in messy pizza bombs.
  6. Seal the Pizza Bombs: Carefully bring the edges of the dough circle up and over the pizza filling. Pinch the edges together firmly to completely seal the pizza bomb. Ensure there are no gaps or openings to prevent the cheesy filling from escaping during baking. Twist the top of the sealed dough slightly to create an extra secure closure. Gently roll the sealed dough ball between your palms to smooth out the surface and create a uniformly round shape. This helps the pizza bombs bake evenly and look more appealing. Place the sealed pizza bomb seam-down on the prepared baking sheet. Placing them seam-down helps to further secure the seal during baking as the weight of the bomb presses down on the seam.
  7. Brush with Olive Oil and Season: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix well to create a flavorful brushing mixture. Using a pastry brush, generously brush the tops and sides of each pizza bomb with this olive oil mixture. Brushing with olive oil gives the pizza bombs a beautiful golden-brown color as they bake, enhances the flavor of the crust with garlic and Italian herbs, and adds a subtle crispness to the exterior. If you are using egg wash for an extra glossy finish, whisk together one egg with one tablespoon of water in a small bowl. Brush the egg wash onto the pizza bombs instead of the olive oil mixture at this stage. Egg wash provides a richer color and a slightly more tender crust.
  8. Add Optional Toppings: If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the pizza bombs before baking. Parmesan cheese adds a delightful salty and nutty flavor that complements the pizza fillings. As it bakes, it will create a slightly crispy and flavorful topping.
  9. Bake the Pizza Bombs: Place the baking sheet with the prepared pizza bombs in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pizza bombs are beautifully golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the dough should reach at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked. The dough should be fully baked and puffed up, and the cheese inside should be melted, gooey, and bubbly.
  10. Cool Slightly and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the pizza bombs from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving. Allow them to cool slightly makes them easier to handle and prevents burning your mouth. Pizza bombs are best enjoyed warm, when the cheese is still melty and the dough is soft on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, for a touch of freshness and visual appeal. Serve immediately and enjoy the deliciousness!

Nutrition Facts

(Per serving, based on estimated values – actual values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes)

  • Serving Size: 1 Pizza Bomb
  • Calories: Approximately 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Protein: 20g

Please Note: These nutritional values are estimations and can fluctuate based on the specific ingredient brands used, the recipe for homemade dough if used, and the exact amounts of fillings added to each pizza bomb. For precise nutritional information, it is recommended to use a nutrition calculator and input the specific ingredients you use in your recipe and the exact portion sizes. This will provide the most accurate nutritional breakdown.

Preparation Time

Get ready to enjoy these homemade pizza bombs in a relatively short amount of time! Here’s a detailed breakdown of the preparation and cooking durations to help you plan:

  • Prep Time: 30-40 minutes. This includes all the hands-on time required for preparing the dough (if making homemade, otherwise just handling pre-made dough), mixing the pizza filling ingredients, and assembling and shaping the pizza bombs. If you are using pre-made dough and have your fillings ready, the prep time can be significantly reduced.
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes. This is the time the pizza bombs spend baking in the preheated oven. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your specific oven, the size of the pizza bombs you made, and how evenly your oven heats. Keep an eye on them and adjust baking time as needed to ensure they are golden brown and cooked through.
  • Total Time: Approximately 50-65 minutes. From start to finish, including both preparation and baking, you can expect to have delicious, homemade pizza bombs ready to serve and enjoy in just under an hour, making them a perfect option for a weeknight meal or a weekend treat.

How to Serve Pizza Bombs

Pizza bombs are incredibly versatile and can be served in a multitude of ways, making them perfect for various occasions. Here are some delicious and creative serving suggestions:

  • Classic Pizza Night Upgrade: Elevate your regular pizza night by serving pizza bombs as a fun and exciting alternative to traditional pizza slices. They bring a novelty factor that makes pizza night feel special. Pair them with a refreshing and crisp garden salad and a selection of your family’s favorite dipping sauces for a complete and satisfying meal.
  • Game Day Appetizer Extravaganza: Pizza bombs are an ideal appetizer for game day gatherings, Super Bowl parties, or any sports viewing event. They are perfectly handheld, making them easy to eat while mingling, watching the game, and socializing. Arrange them attractively on a large platter, perhaps garnished with fresh herbs, and offer a variety of dipping sauces such as marinara, creamy ranch dressing, zesty garlic aioli, or spicy buffalo sauce.
  • Lunchbox Delight for Kids and Adults: Once cooled completely, pizza bombs transform into a fantastic and exciting addition to lunchboxes for both kids and adults. They are portable, self-contained, and satisfying, offering a much more interesting and flavorful lunch option compared to standard sandwiches or wraps. Pack them with a side of veggies, fruit, or a small container of dipping sauce for a well-rounded lunch.
  • Party Appetizer Centerpiece: Impress your guests at your next party or casual get-together by featuring pizza bombs as a unique and crowd-pleasing appetizer. They are visually appealing, delicious, and offer a fun alternative to typical party snacks. Consider serving them warm, perhaps from a chafing dish or warming tray, to keep them at the perfect serving temperature throughout your event.
  • Casual and Fun Dinner Option: For a relaxed and enjoyable weeknight dinner, pizza bombs are an excellent choice. They are relatively easy to prepare, require minimal utensils for serving and eating, and are always a hit with both kids and adults, making cleanup a breeze. Serve them alongside simple side dishes like steamed or roasted vegetables, a light and fresh side salad, or even some crispy potato wedges for a balanced and satisfying meal.
  • Dipping Sauce Bar – A Flavor Adventure: Create a dipping sauce bar with a wide selection of sauces to enhance the pizza bomb experience and cater to everyone’s taste preferences. Marinara sauce is a classic and essential choice, but expand your options to include creamy ranch dressing, flavorful garlic aioli, vibrant pesto, sweet and tangy honey mustard, smoky BBQ sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for those who enjoy a kick. Let your guests customize their pizza bomb experience with their favorite sauce combinations.
  • Themed Party Food Integration: Pizza bombs fit seamlessly into various themed parties, such as Italian-themed nights, movie nights at home, casual backyard barbecues, or children’s birthday parties. They are a fun, interactive, and crowd-pleasing food option that perfectly complements the festive atmosphere of any casual gathering.
  • Picnic and Potluck Perfect Contribution: Pizza bombs are incredibly travel-friendly and remain delicious at room temperature or slightly warm, making them an ideal dish to bring to picnics, potlucks, outdoor concerts, or tailgating events. They are easy to transport in a container and serve without the need for plates, cutlery, or reheating, making them a convenient and popular choice for shared meals.

Additional Tips for Perfect Pizza Bombs

Want to take your homemade pizza bombs from good to absolutely amazing? Here are eight essential tips and tricks to ensure pizza bomb perfection every single time!

  1. Master the Art of Not Overfilling: One of the most common mistakes is overfilling the pizza bombs. While it’s tempting to pack them with fillings, resist the urge! Too much filling makes them incredibly difficult to seal properly, increasing the risk of bursting during baking and resulting in a messy outcome. A generous 2-3 tablespoons of filling per pizza bomb is usually the perfect amount to provide flavor without compromising the seal.
  2. Achieve a Super Secure Seal: Properly sealing the dough is absolutely crucial to prevent the cheesy filling from leaking out during baking. Pinch the edges of the dough together very firmly, ensuring there are no gaps or weak spots in the seal. Take your time and double-check that the entire circumference is tightly closed. Twisting the top of the sealed dough slightly, like you’re closing a bag of bread, can help create an even more secure and reliable seal.
  3. Invest in Quality Ingredients for Superior Taste: The overall flavor of your pizza bombs will only be as good as the quality of the ingredients you use. Opt for good quality, flavorful pizza sauce, fresh and delicious mozzarella cheese, and high-quality toppings. Using fresh, premium ingredients truly makes a significant difference in the final taste and elevates your pizza bombs from ordinary to extraordinary.
  4. Unleash Your Creativity with Customized Fillings: Pizza bombs are incredibly versatile and a fantastic canvas for culinary creativity! Don’t be afraid to experiment with a wide array of fillings to cater to different tastes and preferences. Explore different types of cheeses like provolone, sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses. Venture beyond pepperoni and incorporate various meats such as cooked chicken, crispy bacon, savory ham, or ground beef. Add a rainbow of vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, black olives, caramelized onions, spinach, roasted red peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes. You can even enhance the flavor profile with fresh herbs and spices like basil, oregano, thyme, or red pepper flakes. The possibilities are truly endless – get creative and have fun customizing your fillings!
  5. Embrace the Make-Ahead Magic: Pizza bombs are wonderfully make-ahead friendly, making them perfect for busy schedules or party preparation. You can assemble the pizza bombs completely ahead of time and store them, unbaked, in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake them. After assembling and sealing, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover them loosely with plastic wrap to prevent drying out, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake them as directed in the recipe. This make-ahead option saves valuable time on the day you plan to serve them.
  6. Freezing for Future Feasts: Pizza bombs are also excellent for freezing, allowing you to enjoy them whenever a craving strikes or when you need a quick and easy meal. Bake the pizza bombs completely according to the recipe instructions. Once baked, let them cool completely to room temperature. Wrap each pizza bomb individually and tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn and maintain freshness. Place the wrapped pizza bombs in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake them directly from frozen (no thawing needed) in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until they are heated through to the center and the crust is crisp.
  7. Control Dough Thickness for Optimal Texture: When flattening the dough circles, aim for a consistent and appropriate thickness. If the dough is too thin, it can easily tear during filling and sealing, and the pizza bombs may become overly crispy and dry when baked. If the dough is too thick, the pizza bombs may be doughy and undercooked in the center. Aim for a thickness of about ¼ inch for the edges and slightly thicker in the center. A slightly thicker center helps prevent the bottom from becoming too thin and tearing under the weight of the filling, while thinner edges make sealing easier and ensure the dough cooks through evenly.
  8. Experiment with Dough Flavors for Extra Depth: Take your pizza bombs to the next level by experimenting with flavored pizza dough! Enhancing the flavor of the dough itself adds an extra layer of deliciousness and complexity to the final pizza bombs. For homemade dough, consider incorporating dried herbs like oregano, basil, rosemary, or garlic powder directly into the dough while kneading. If using pre-made dough, you can brush the dough circles with garlic butter or herb-infused olive oil before filling them. You can also explore pre-made flavored dough options that are readily available in some grocery stores, such as garlic and herb dough or roasted garlic dough. These flavored doughs can elevate the overall taste profile of your pizza bombs and create a truly gourmet experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pizza Bombs

Got questions about making pizza bombs at home? You’re not alone! Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions to help you achieve pizza bomb success.

Q1: Can I use store-bought pizza dough or am I obligated to make it from scratch?
A: Absolutely! Using store-bought pizza dough is a fantastic and convenient shortcut for making pizza bombs at home. High-quality pre-made pizza dough works perfectly and saves you considerable time and effort. Simply ensure you purchase fresh pizza dough from the refrigerated section of your grocery store, not the frozen kind, for best results. Allow the store-bought dough to sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before using to make it more pliable and easier to handle and shape. Of course, if you enjoy baking and prefer a more hands-on approach, homemade pizza dough is also an excellent option and can add a personal touch to your pizza bombs. Choose whichever method best suits your time, skill level, and preference!

Q2: I’m vegetarian, what are some delicious vegetarian filling options for pizza bombs?
A: Vegetarian pizza bombs are incredibly versatile and can be just as flavorful and satisfying as their meat-filled counterparts! Here are some excellent vegetarian filling ideas to inspire you:
Classic Mushroom and Swiss: Sautéed sliced mushrooms with melted Swiss cheese and a hint of garlic powder for an earthy and savory flavor combination.
Creamy Spinach and Ricotta: Sautéed fresh spinach mixed with creamy ricotta cheese, a pinch of nutmeg, and a touch of Parmesan cheese for a rich and comforting filling.
Mediterranean Roasted Vegetable Medley: Roasted bell peppers (red, yellow, and orange), zucchini, eggplant, and red onions with mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for a vibrant and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired pizza bomb.
Decadent Four Cheese Blend: A luxurious and cheesy filling featuring a blend of mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan, and fontina cheeses for an incredibly rich and cheesy experience.
Aromatic Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato: Pesto sauce as a base, combined with sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and fresh mozzarella cheese for a bright and flavorful Italian-inspired vegetarian option.
Spicy Black Bean and Corn: A zesty and flavorful filling of black beans, corn kernels, diced bell peppers, onions, and cheddar cheese, seasoned with chili powder and cumin for a Southwestern twist.

Q3: Oh no! My pizza bombs burst open while baking. What mistake did I likely make?
A: Bursting pizza bombs during baking is a common issue, and it usually points to one of two main culprits: overfilling or inadequate sealing. The most likely cause is overfilling the dough circles with too much pizza filling. As the filling heats up and expands in the oven, excessive filling can put too much pressure on the dough, causing it to burst open. Make sure to use a moderate amount of filling – about 2-3 tablespoons per pizza bomb – and avoid overstuffing them. The second common reason for bursting is not sealing the dough edges tightly and securely enough. If there are any gaps or weak points in the seal, the expanding filling can easily escape, causing the dough to burst open. Double-check that you have firmly pinched the dough edges together all the way around and that there are no openings before baking.

Q4: Can I make adorable mini pizza bombs? They sound perfect for kids!
A: Yes, absolutely! Mini pizza bombs are a fantastic idea, especially for appetizers, kid-friendly snacks, or smaller portion sizes. To make mini pizza bombs, simply divide the pizza dough into smaller portions than you would for standard-sized bombs. Aim for dough portions that are about half the size. Flatten each smaller dough portion into a smaller circle, approximately 3 inches in diameter. Reduce the amount of filling you use for each mini pizza bomb accordingly – about 1-2 tablespoons should be sufficient. Assemble and seal the mini pizza bombs just as you would for regular-sized ones. Keep in mind that mini pizza bombs will likely bake a bit faster due to their smaller size, so reduce the baking time by a few minutes and keep a close eye on them in the oven to prevent overbaking.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat leftover pizza bombs so they taste almost as good as fresh?
A: Reheating pizza bombs properly is key to maintaining their deliciousness and texture. For the best results, and to restore some crispness to the crust, reheating them in the oven is highly recommended. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover pizza bombs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for approximately 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through to the center and the crust regains some of its crispness. Microwaving pizza bombs is a quicker option for reheating, but it can make the crust softer and less crispy. If using a microwave, reheat them in short intervals (about 30 seconds at a time) until heated through, being careful not to overheat and make them rubbery. Air frying is another excellent method for reheating pizza bombs, as it reheats them quickly and helps to crisp up the crust nicely. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, checking for doneness.

Q6: Can I experiment with different types of dough, such as crescent roll dough or flaky puff pastry?
A: While traditional pizza dough is the classic choice for pizza bombs, you can definitely experiment with other types of dough to achieve different textures and flavors. Crescent roll dough will result in pizza bombs with a softer, flakier, and slightly sweeter crust, reminiscent of croissants. Puff pastry will create pizza bombs with a very light, airy, and exceptionally flaky crust, similar to pastries. However, puff pastry can be more delicate to work with and may require extra care during assembly and sealing to prevent tearing. Keep in mind that baking times may need to be adjusted depending on the type of dough you use. Crescent roll dough and puff pastry tend to bake faster than pizza dough, so reduce the baking time and monitor them closely to prevent overbrowning.

Q7: How can I easily make my pizza bombs spicier for those who love a little heat?
A: Adding a spicy kick to your pizza bombs is simple and can cater to those who enjoy a bit of heat! Here are several effective ways to make your pizza bombs spicier:
Use a Spicy Pizza Sauce: Opt for a spicy pizza sauce base, such as arrabbiata sauce or a marinara sauce infused with chili flakes or hot peppers.
Incorporate Jalapeños or Banana Peppers: Add sliced fresh jalapeños (for significant heat) or pickled banana peppers (for a milder, tangy spice) to the pizza filling mixture.
Choose Spicy Pepperoni or Sausage: Select spicy pepperoni or Italian sausage varieties when choosing your meat toppings to infuse the pizza bombs with a savory heat.
Add Red Pepper Flakes to the Cheese Mixture: Sprinkle a generous pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the mozzarella cheese mixture for a subtle but noticeable heat throughout the filling.
Serve with Spicy Dipping Sauces: Offer a selection of spicy dipping sauces alongside your pizza bombs, such as sriracha mayo, hot pepper relish, buffalo sauce, or a spicy marinara dip, to allow guests to customize their spice level.

Q8: What are some creative and delicious dipping sauce options besides the classic marinara?
A: While marinara sauce is a timeless and perfect pairing for pizza bombs, there’s a whole world of delicious dipping sauces to explore that can enhance and complement their flavor! Expand your dipping sauce horizons with these creative and tasty options:
Creamy Ranch Dressing: A classic and universally loved creamy dressing that provides a cool and tangy contrast to the warm, savory pizza bombs.
Flavorful Garlic Aioli: A rich and decadent garlic mayonnaise-based sauce that adds a creamy, garlicky punch.
Vibrant Pesto Sauce: A bright and herbaceous basil pesto sauce that brings a fresh and Italian-inspired flavor.
Sweet and Tangy Honey Mustard: A delightful combination of sweet honey and tangy mustard that offers a unique and balanced flavor profile.
Smoky BBQ Sauce: A smoky and savory BBQ sauce that adds a touch of sweetness and depth, especially delicious with meat-filled pizza bombs.
Spicy Sriracha Mayo: A creamy and fiery blend of mayonnaise and sriracha hot sauce for those who crave a spicy kick.
Bold Blue Cheese Dressing: A tangy and pungent blue cheese dressing that provides a sharp and flavorful contrast, particularly well-suited for meat-heavy pizza bombs.
Creamy Avocado Ranch: A healthy and flavorful twist on ranch dressing, incorporating creamy avocado for richness and a fresh, vibrant taste.

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Pizza Bomb at Home


  • Author: David

Ingredients

Here are all the ingredients you’ll need to create these mouthwatering pizza bombs at home. We’ve opted for classic pizza flavors, but feel free to get creative with your own favorite fillings!

  • Pizza Dough: 2 pounds, pre-made or homemade. The essential base of our pizza bombs. Pre-made dough is a convenient shortcut, while homemade provides superior flavor and texture. Ensure it’s pliable and easy to work with.
  • Pizza Sauce: 1 ½ cups, your preferred brand or homemade recipe. A flavorful and robust pizza sauce is key to a delicious pizza bomb. Choose your favorite style – classic marinara, spicy arrabbiata, or even a creamy pesto.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups, shredded. The quintessential pizza cheese, known for its incredible melting properties and mild, milky flavor. Low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella is recommended for optimal melting without becoming too watery.
  • Pepperoni Slices: 1 cup, sliced or diced. A classic pizza topping that adds a savory, slightly spicy kick. You can use regular or turkey pepperoni, or substitute with other cured meats like salami or prosciutto.
  • Cooked Italian Sausage (crumbled): 1 cup (optional). For those who love a meaty pizza bomb, cooked and crumbled Italian sausage adds a rich, savory depth. Ensure it’s fully cooked and crumbled into small, even pieces.
  • Green Bell Pepper (diced): ½ cup (optional). Adds a fresh, slightly sweet crunch and vibrant color to the filling. Red, yellow, or orange bell peppers can also be used for variety.
  • Onion (diced): ½ cup (optional). Contributes a savory and aromatic base note to the flavor profile. White or yellow onions are classic choices, while red onion offers a milder, slightly sweeter flavor.
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Used for brushing the pizza bombs before baking, imparting a golden-brown crust, enhanced flavor, and a slight crispness.
  • Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon. Adds a subtle but essential garlic aroma and flavor to the dough, complementing the pizza fillings beautifully.
  • Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon. A blend of dried herbs that enhances the overall pizza flavor, creating a classic Italian aromatic profile.
  • Egg Wash (1 egg + 1 tablespoon water): For a glossy, golden-brown finish. Optional, but highly recommended for visual appeal and a slightly richer, more tender crust.
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese: For sprinkling on top (optional). Adds a salty, nutty, and savory finish, as well as a slightly crispy top layer when baked.
  • Fresh Parsley (chopped): For garnish (optional). Adds a fresh, herbaceous touch and a vibrant green color, enhancing the visual appeal of the finished pizza bombs.

Instructions

Follow these detailed, step-by-step instructions to create perfect pizza bombs in your home kitchen. This recipe is designed to be easy and enjoyable, even for beginner bakers!

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature for even baking. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Parchment paper prevents sticking, makes cleanup effortless, and ensures the pizza bombs don’t burn on the bottom. Silicone baking mats are reusable and provide similar non-stick benefits.
  2. Prepare the Pizza Dough: If you are using pre-made pizza dough, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. This allows the dough to relax and become more pliable, making it easier to handle and shape without tearing. If you are using homemade dough, ensure it has completed its first rise and is ready for shaping according to your recipe instructions. Lightly flour your work surface with all-purpose flour. This prevents the dough from sticking and makes it easier to roll out and shape. Divide the pizza dough into equal portions. For standard-sized pizza bombs, aim for approximately 8-12 portions from 2 pounds of dough. This will depend on how large you prefer your pizza bombs to be. A good starting point is to divide the dough into 10-12 equal pieces for a balance of size and bake time.
  3. Shape the Dough Portions: Take one portion of dough and flatten it into a circle, approximately 4-5 inches in diameter. You can use your fingers to gently stretch the dough or use a rolling pin for a more uniform circle. Aim for the center of the circle to be slightly thicker than the edges. This is important to prevent the bottom from becoming too thin and tearing when filled, while the thinner edges will be easier to pinch and seal.
  4. Assemble the Pizza Bomb Filling: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, gently combine the pizza sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices (or diced), and any other desired fillings such as cooked Italian sausage, diced green bell pepper, and diced onion. Mix the ingredients together until they are well combined and evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep the ingredients distinct yet evenly incorporated for a good texture in the final pizza bomb.
  5. Fill the Dough Circles: Place a generous spoonful of the pizza filling, about 2-3 tablespoons, into the center of each flattened dough circle. Be mindful not to overfill the dough circles. Overfilling makes them difficult to seal properly and significantly increases the risk of the filling leaking out during baking, resulting in messy pizza bombs.
  6. Seal the Pizza Bombs: Carefully bring the edges of the dough circle up and over the pizza filling. Pinch the edges together firmly to completely seal the pizza bomb. Ensure there are no gaps or openings to prevent the cheesy filling from escaping during baking. Twist the top of the sealed dough slightly to create an extra secure closure. Gently roll the sealed dough ball between your palms to smooth out the surface and create a uniformly round shape. This helps the pizza bombs bake evenly and look more appealing. Place the sealed pizza bomb seam-down on the prepared baking sheet. Placing them seam-down helps to further secure the seal during baking as the weight of the bomb presses down on the seam.
  7. Brush with Olive Oil and Season: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix well to create a flavorful brushing mixture. Using a pastry brush, generously brush the tops and sides of each pizza bomb with this olive oil mixture. Brushing with olive oil gives the pizza bombs a beautiful golden-brown color as they bake, enhances the flavor of the crust with garlic and Italian herbs, and adds a subtle crispness to the exterior. If you are using egg wash for an extra glossy finish, whisk together one egg with one tablespoon of water in a small bowl. Brush the egg wash onto the pizza bombs instead of the olive oil mixture at this stage. Egg wash provides a richer color and a slightly more tender crust.
  8. Add Optional Toppings: If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the pizza bombs before baking. Parmesan cheese adds a delightful salty and nutty flavor that complements the pizza fillings. As it bakes, it will create a slightly crispy and flavorful topping.
  9. Bake the Pizza Bombs: Place the baking sheet with the prepared pizza bombs in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pizza bombs are beautifully golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the dough should reach at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked. The dough should be fully baked and puffed up, and the cheese inside should be melted, gooey, and bubbly.
  10. Cool Slightly and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the pizza bombs from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving. Allow them to cool slightly makes them easier to handle and prevents burning your mouth. Pizza bombs are best enjoyed warm, when the cheese is still melty and the dough is soft on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, for a touch of freshness and visual appeal. Serve immediately and enjoy the deliciousness!

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: one normal portion
  • Calories: 450
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Protein: 20g