Birria Pizza
The first time I tried Birria Pizza, I was mesmerized. Combining the rich, savory depth of birria with the gooey goodness of cheese on a crispy pizza crust felt like a revelation. Imagine gathering around the table with friends and family, sharing slices that are bursting with flavor! Whether it’s a cozy night in or a vibrant gathering, this dish has a way of making any occasion feel special. I remember the laughter, the sizzling sounds from the oven, and the anticipation that filled the air as we waited for the first slice to come out. Each bite transports you to a world where comfort food meets culinary adventure, and trust me, the dip into the birria stew is the cherry on top. This is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Recipe Snapshot
3 hr 15 mins
180 mins
15 mins
Hard
400 kcal
20 g
Keto, Paleo, Gluten-Free
18 g
Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board, Baking Sheet, Oven
What You’ll Enjoy About This Birria Pizza
Flavor Explosion
One of the standout features of Birria Pizza is the incredible flavor harmony between the birria and the cheese. The rich, spicy notes of the birria stew perfectly complement the creamy, melty cheese, creating a taste sensation that’s hard to beat.
Unique Twist on Tradition
This isn’t your average pizza. By using birria, a traditional Mexican dish made from slow-cooked meat, you’re elevating a classic into something extraordinary. It’s a unique twist that impresses both at dinner parties and casual get-togethers.
Perfect for Any Gathering
Birria Pizza is ideal for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner, a game day feast, or a casual Friday night, serving this dish is sure to wow your guests and leave them raving about your cooking skills.
Versatile Ingredients
The ingredients used in this pizza can be tailored to your taste. Feel free to switch up the cheese blend or add additional toppings like jalapeños or cilantro to suit your preference.
Easy to Make
Even though it sounds fancy, making Birria Pizza is straightforward and fun! It’s a fantastic way to get the kids involved in the kitchen, letting them help with the toppings and assembly.
Dip for Extra Flavor
Don’t forget the birria stew! Dipping your pizza slice into the warm stew brings an extra layer of flavor that makes every bite a delight. It’s simply irresistible.
What You Need for Birria Pizza
When it comes to crafting a perfect Birria Pizza, the quality and harmony of the ingredients are paramount. Each element plays a crucial role in building flavor, from the crust to the toppings. Using fresh ingredients and a well-prepared birria stew ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and satisfaction.
- 1/2 batch no knead pizza dough – This dough is the foundation of your pizza, providing a crispy base that’s easy to work with and deliciously chewy.
- 2 cups cheese – A mix of mozzarella and Monterey Jack creates a gooey, melting layer that binds all the toppings together.
- 3/4 cup Birria Stew – The heart of this recipe, the birria stew infuses the pizza with rich flavors and a touch of spice.
- 1 cup Birria Meat – Shredded finely, this beef or lamb adds texture and depth to your pizza.
- 1/3 cup white onion – Diced, these onions lend a fresh crunch and a bit of sweetness.
- 1 Jalapeño – Sliced for a kick of heat that complements the rich flavors.
- 1/4 cup cilantro leaves – Minced, this herb adds freshness and brightness to each slice.
- 1 Jalapeño – Additional slices for those who enjoy a little extra spice.
- 1 cup Birria Stew – You’ll want a bit more of this rich stew for layering and dipping.
Instructions for Birria Pizza
Making Birria Pizza is a delightful process that brings the wonderful flavors together. Follow these steps for a pizza that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress!
- Prepare your pizza dough. If you’re making the no knead pizza dough, it should have risen overnight and be ready to shape. If you’re using homemade dough, ensure it’s gone through its first rise.
- Preheat your oven to its highest setting. If you have a baking steel or pizza stone, place it on the oven rack to heat up. This will help achieve a perfect crispy crust.
- Stretch the pizza dough to your desired thickness. You want it to be thick enough to hold all the toppings but thin enough to ensure a crispy finish.
- Start layering with the cheese. Spread about 1 and 1/2 cups of cheese evenly over the surface of the dough, ensuring full coverage.
- Spoon the Birria Stew over the cheese. Don’t worry if some leaks into the dough; it will only enhance the flavor, as long as the cheese covers the majority of it.
- Add the finely shredded meat over the sauce. This will soak up the delicious flavors from the stew and add texture.
- Finish with a sprinkle of toppings, including more cheese (about 1/2 cup) and any additional toppings you desire.
- Bake the pizza for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden brown. For a charred cheese top, you can broil it for a couple of extra minutes.
- Once out of the oven, top with diced onions, chopped cilantro, and sliced jalapeños for a fresh finish.
- Slice your pizza and don’t forget to dip each slice into the Birria Stew for that ultimate flavor boost!
Things Worth Knowing
- Checking Dough Readiness: Ensure your pizza dough has risen adequately before stretching. It should feel elastic and slightly sticky to the touch.
- Using Pizza Steel: A baking steel or pizza stone helps to achieve that crispy crust. Always preheat it to ensure it’s hot enough when the pizza goes in.
- Layering Technique: Start with cheese to prevent sogginess. The cheese forms a barrier, keeping the sauce from making the crust soggy.
- Broiling for Color: If you prefer a charred top, monitor closely while broiling to avoid burning the cheese.
- Resting Time: Let the pizza cool slightly after baking before slicing. This helps the cheese set a bit, making it easier to serve.
Tips and Tricks about Birria Pizza
When preparing Birria Pizza, having a few handy tips can elevate your cooking experience. Here are some pointers to ensure it turns out perfectly!
- Storage: If you have leftovers, let the pizza cool to room temperature, slice it, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the assembled but unbaked pizza for later. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and bake it directly from frozen when you’re ready!
- Pairing: Consider serving your pizza with a side of fresh salad or guacamole for a refreshing contrast to the rich pizza.
- Extra Flavor: For added freshness, squeeze some lime juice or add fresh herbs right before serving for a bright finish.
- Experimenting: Try different types of cheeses or additional toppings based on your taste preferences, such as olives or bell peppers.
- Check Doneness: Make sure the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling before pulling it out of the oven for the best texture.
What to Serve Alongside Birria Pizza
Pairing dishes with Birria Pizza can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delightful options to consider:
- Fresh Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the pizza.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds a wonderful touch and pairs beautifully with the flavors of the birria.
- Mexican Rice: Serve with a side of seasoned Mexican rice for a heartier meal.
- Grilled Vegetables: Adding a side of grilled zucchini or bell peppers can bring a nice crunch and freshness.
- Cold Beverages: Pair with a refreshing drink, such as horchata or a fruity agua fresca, to cleanse the palate.
- Simple Dipping Sauce: Offer a zesty dipping sauce or salsa for guests who enjoy a little extra flavor.
FAQ
Conclusion
Birria Pizza is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings the best of both worlds together. It’s a dish that invites sharing and makes every meal an occasion to remember. I encourage you to gather your friends and family, roll up your sleeves, and whip up this delicious pizza tonight. You won’t regret diving into the rich, savory goodness!
Birria Pizza
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare your pizza dough. If you’re making the no knead pizza dough, it should have risen overnight and be ready to shape. If you’re using homemade dough, ensure it’s gone through its first rise.
- Preheat your oven to its highest setting. If you have a baking steel or pizza stone, place it on the oven rack to heat up. This will help achieve a perfect crispy crust.
- Stretch the pizza dough to your desired thickness. You want it to be thick enough to hold all the toppings but thin enough to ensure a crispy finish.
- Start layering with the cheese. Spread about 1 and 1/2 cups of cheese evenly over the surface of the dough, ensuring full coverage.
- Spoon the Birria Stew over the cheese. Don’t worry if some leaks into the dough; it will only enhance the flavor, as long as the cheese covers the majority of it.
- Add the finely shredded meat over the sauce. This will soak up the delicious flavors from the stew and add texture.
- Finish with a sprinkle of toppings, including more cheese (about 1/2 cup) and any additional toppings you desire.
- Bake the pizza for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden brown. For a charred cheese top, you can broil it for a couple of extra minutes.
- Once out of the oven, top with diced onions, chopped cilantro, and sliced jalapeños for a fresh finish.
- Slice your pizza and don’t forget to dip each slice into the Birria Stew for that ultimate flavor boost!
Notes
- Storage: If you have leftovers, let the pizza cool to room temperature, slice it, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the assembled but unbaked pizza for later. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and bake it directly from frozen when you’re ready!
- Pairing: Consider serving your pizza with a side of fresh salad or guacamole for a refreshing contrast to the rich pizza.
- Extra Flavor: For added freshness, squeeze some lime juice or add fresh herbs right before serving for a bright finish.
- Experimenting: Try different types of cheeses or additional toppings based on your taste preferences, such as olives or bell peppers.
- Check Doneness: Make sure the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling before pulling it out of the oven for the best texture.
