Save Sweet and savory Hawaiian pizza is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser whenever pizza night rolls around. The combo of gooey mozzarella, tangy pineapple, and salty ham on a warm, crisp crust always disappears fast in my house.
I remember the first time my kids requested pineapple on pizza and I skeptically tried it With one bite that juicy tang utterly changed my view and now it is one of our go to comfort foods
Ingredients
- Prepared pizza dough: about 300 grams This is your foundation Look for dough with a bit of spring when pressed
- Pizza sauce or tomato sauce: about 120 milliliters Adds zip and moisture to every bite Use a sauce that tastes fresh and not too sweet for best results
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: about 150 grams Brings melty deliciousness Pick one that melts smoothly and has a rich flavor
- Cooked ham diced: about 100 grams Offers savory richness Opt for ham that is not overly salty for a balanced taste
- Canned pineapple chunks drained: about 80 grams Brings iconic sweetness Use fruit that is firm and bright in color
- Red onion thinly sliced: This adds colorful crunch and gentle sharpness if you like
- Freshly ground black pepper: Enhances the flavor layers Use cracked pepper for a little heat
- Fresh basil leaves: Offers herbal freshness right at the end Choose bright green leaves
- Dried oregano: A classic pizza herb Great for a quick sprinkle if you do not have fresh basil
Instructions
- Prep the Oven:
- Get your oven ready by heating it to a blazing 230 degrees Celsius or 450 degrees Fahrenheit If you have a pizza stone pop it in too to get ripping hot and help the crust crisp perfectly
- Shape the Dough:
- Scatter a bit of flour on your work surface Roll out your dough with a rolling pin until you reach your preferred thickness It should feel elastic but not sticky Carefully transfer onto a lined baking sheet or a pizza peel if using a stone
- Sauce the Base:
- Spoon the pizza sauce evenly onto the dough Start in the center and work outward leaving a tidy bare edge for a classic pizzeria look
- Add the Cheese:
- Scatter the shredded mozzarella over the sauce making sure to cover most spots but not overload This creates those signature stretchy cheese pulls after baking
- Arrange the Toppings:
- Sprinkle the diced ham over the cheese Try for even coverage so every slice gets a bit Next drop on those pineapple chunks letting the juice glisten into the cheese If you are using red onion scatter a few thin rings on top
- Season:
- Twist some black pepper over your pizza for a boost of flavor If you love a herbal finish lightly dust with dried oregano at this stage
- Bake to Golden Perfection:
- Swiftly slide your pizza into the oven Bake for twelve to fifteen minutes Watch for a puffed golden crust and bubbling cheese with some bronzed spots
- Finish and Slice:
- Once baked let the pizza rest for a moment out of the oven Garnish with torn basil leaves if using Slice with a sharp knife and serve right away while the cheese is molten
Save For me nothing beats the caramelized edge of pineapple after baking I always sneak a corner slice for myself because the crust there is the crispiest
Storage Tips
Cool leftover pizza before wrapping so condensation does not make the crust soggy Store slices in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days Warm leftovers under a hot grill for best texture
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap in smoked turkey or cooked bacon for a twist If you want vegetarian Hawaiian style load up with colorful bell peppers mushrooms or even smoked cheese instead of ham Choose fresh pineapple if you like a brighter sharper punch
Serving Suggestions
Pile slices high on a wooden board for an easy party centerpiece Pair with a fresh green salad and chill drinks for a balanced meal Hawaiian pizza is also fantastic cold ideal for picnic lunches or next-day snacks
Cultural and Historical Context
Hawaiian pizza was first created in Canada in the 1960s not in Hawaii The sweet and salty pairing was unusual at first but quickly became a beloved classic in North America and beyond It is perfect for people who crave a flavor adventure on their pizza
Seasonal Adaptations
You can use fresh summer pineapple for a juicier topping Try local ham or proscuitto in place of standard deli ham Add roasted red peppers or grilled corn for a summer barbecue version
Save Every pizza night I make at home feels like a mini celebration My family always gathers in the kitchen to pick their favorite toppings but Hawaiian is the first to vanish and always sparks debate among guests about whether pineapple belongs on pizza or not
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What style of dough works best?
Prepared dough or homemade works well. A thinner base ensures a crispier texture and holds toppings nicely.
- → Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely. Fresh pineapple offers a brighter flavor and less moisture, which helps keep the crust crisp.
- → What cheeses can I substitute for mozzarella?
Fontina, provolone, or Monterey Jack also melt well and add creamy richness to the pizza.
- → How do I prevent a soggy crust?
Bake on a hot stone or steel, avoid excess sauce, and drain pineapple before adding to avoid extra moisture.
- → Are there vegetarian options?
Omit ham and add bell peppers, mushrooms, or extra onions for a flavorful meat-free alternative.