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There is something magically satisfying about the marriage of crisp asparagus, savory bacon, and tangy feta on a crispy crust, making this Asparagus, Bacon, & Feta Pizza Recipe a standout favorite. It combines fresh, vibrant veggies with smoky, salty bacon and creamy cheeses, all layered onto homemade pizza dough with a luscious garlic-Parmesan sauce. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight supper or a fun weekend gathering, this pizza is bursting with flavor and texture that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Asparagus, Bacon, & Feta Pizza Recipe is how straightforward yet thoughtfully balanced the ingredients are; each one plays a crucial role from the crispy bacon to the creamy cheeses and that bright, tender asparagus. Let’s take a look at these essentials that come together into something truly special.
- Pizza dough: Use enough dough to make two small pies, providing the perfect sturdy yet tender base for all those toppings.
- Bacon (8 slices): Adds smoky richness and a satisfying crunch after sautéing—don’t skip chilling it first for easy slicing.
- Asparagus (1 small bunch): The fresh green vegetable brings a bright, slightly grassy flavor and a gentle snap.
- Shredded mozzarella (2 ½ cups, divided): Melts beautifully for gooey, cheesy goodness that holds the toppings together.
- Crumbled feta (4 ounces, divided): Offers salty tang and a crumbly texture that contrasts perfectly with the mozzarella.
- Butter (¼ cup): For the rich base of the garlic-Parmesan sauce that coats the dough.
- Cream cheese (4 ounces): Provides a velvety texture and gentle tang to the sauce, making it extra luscious.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses the sauce with a warm, savory note without overpowering other flavors.
- Milk (½ cup): Thins the sauce to just the right consistency for spreading over the dough.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (3 ounces): Adds a nutty, salty sharpness that complements the creamy and fresh elements.
- Ground black pepper (â…› teaspoon): A subtle heat that lifts the entire flavor profile.
How to Make Asparagus, Bacon, & Feta Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Garlic-Parmesan Sauce
Start by melting butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, setting the stage for an indulgently rich sauce. Add the cream cheese and garlic powder, whisking continuously until everything is smooth and combined. Slowly drizzle in the milk bit by bit, whisking vigorously to eliminate lumps. Once the sauce is silky and smooth, stir in the grated Parmesan and ground black pepper. Watch how it thickens into a luscious, creamy base that will make your pizza uniquely delicious.
Step 2: Cook and Prep the Bacon
Pop your bacon slices into the freezer for about 10 minutes; it makes slicing a breeze and less messy. Then chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces, and fry them until they are mostly crispy but still tender enough to finish baking on the pizza—this balance is key. Use a slotted spoon to scoop out the bacon and retain about a tablespoon of the rendered bacon grease; we’ll need that to sauté the asparagus for an extra depth of smoky flavor.
Step 3: Sauté the Asparagus
Trim off the tough, woody ends of your asparagus and carefully slice the stalks in half lengthwise, then cut into 1 to 2 inch pieces. Toss these vibrant green bite-sized pieces into the hot bacon grease, seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for just two minutes to preserve their crisp-tender texture and fresh flavor, then immediately transfer them to a plate to stop the cooking process—this keeps them bright and delicious on your pizza.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Pizza
Roll out half of your pizza dough on a lightly floured surface. For a perfect, sturdy crust, I like to lightly brush the dough with olive oil and bake it for a minute before adding toppings—this little trick prevents sogginess. Next, spread half of the creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce evenly over the dough. Layer with half of the shredded mozzarella, then scatter the sautéed asparagus, crisp bacon pieces, and crumbled feta evenly on top. Pop the pizza in a 450°F oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and slightly golden. Repeat the process with the second half of the dough and toppings to serve up two savory, irresistible pizzas.
How to Serve Asparagus, Bacon, & Feta Pizza Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Asparagus, Bacon, & Feta Pizza Recipe for guests or family, sprinkle on some freshly chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley right after the pizza comes out of the oven. A drizzle of good quality olive oil or a light squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the flavors and add a refreshing zing that dances happily with the richness.
Side Dishes
This pizza pairs wonderfully with light, crisp salads—think a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a bright cucumber and tomato mix. Roasted garlic mashed potatoes or a bowl of chilled gazpacho can also complement the savory, cheesy notes without overpowering the delicate asparagus.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the pizza into square pieces for casual gatherings, making it easy for everyone to grab their favorite portion. Pair it with a rustic wooden board and sprinkle some extra crumbled feta and cracked black pepper on top for a restaurant-quality presentation at home. You can even top with microgreens for an elegant touch that instantly dazzles.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Asparagus, Bacon, & Feta Pizza Recipe, cool it completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days, maintaining its flavors and crispy crust best when properly sealed.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled pizza before baking by wrapping it well in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake it straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time so the crust gets beautifully golden and the cheese melts perfectly.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your pizza leftover is in a hot oven or toaster oven at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes. This reheating method brings back the crust’s crispness and revives the gooey texture of the cheese without making it soggy, unlike the microwave.
FAQs
Can I use pre-made pizza dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Pre-made dough works wonderfully and can save you prep time. Just be sure to roll it out evenly and consider the quick pre-bake step to keep your crust from getting soggy from the sauce and toppings.
What’s the best way to choose asparagus for the pizza?
Look for firm, bright green stalks with closed tips. Thinner spears work best for pizza since they cook quickly and blend nicely with the other ingredients without overpowering the texture.
Is it necessary to sauté the asparagus before putting it on the pizza?
Yes, sautéing asparagus in bacon grease gives it wonderful flavor and softens it just enough so it’s tender once the pizza is baked. It also helps keep the asparagus from releasing excess moisture that could sog the crust.
Can I substitute other cheeses for feta?
While feta’s tangy crumbly texture really complements the Asparagus, Bacon, & Feta Pizza Recipe’s flavor balance, goat cheese or ricotta can be good alternatives if you prefer a milder taste and creamier texture.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Simply omit the bacon and sauté the asparagus in olive oil instead of bacon grease. For an added flavor punch, you could also sprinkle in some smoked paprika or use a plant-based bacon substitute.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—a delightful, flavorful Asparagus, Bacon, & Feta Pizza Recipe that’s sure to become a treasured favorite in your home. It’s a harmonious blend of fresh, crispy, creamy, and smoky elements baked into one irresistible pie. Gather your ingredients, invite a friend over, and treat yourselves to this fabulous pizza that proves gourmet food can absolutely be simple and satisfying.
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Asparagus, Bacon, & Feta Pizza Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Pizza
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Asparagus, Bacon, & Feta Pizza recipe combines a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce with crispy bacon, tender asparagus, and a blend of mozzarella and feta cheeses on homemade pizza dough. It’s a delicious and elegant pizza perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients
Pizza Dough
- 1 batch pizza dough (enough to make 2 small pizzas)
Toppings
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 small bunch asparagus
- 2 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 4 ounces crumbled feta cheese, divided
Sauce
- 1/4 cup butter
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup milk
- 3 ounces grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add cream cheese and garlic powder, whisking continuously until the mixture becomes smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk a little at a time to avoid lumps. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and ground black pepper. Remove from heat once the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Cook the Bacon: Place the bacon in the freezer for 10 minutes to firm it up for easy slicing. Chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces. Fry the bacon pieces in a pan until mostly crispy but not overcooked, as they will bake in the oven. Use a slotted spoon to remove bacon and set aside. Reserve about a tablespoon of the bacon grease and discard the rest.
- Sauté the Asparagus: Snap off the woody ends of the asparagus and cut off the heads. Slice each spear lengthwise in half, then chop into 1-2 inch pieces. Add the asparagus pieces to the reserved bacon grease in the pan and sauté for 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat promptly and transfer to a plate or bowl to prevent overcooking.
- Prepare and Bake the Pizza: Roll out half of the pizza dough into the desired shape. Optionally, brush dough lightly with olive oil and pre-bake in the oven at 450°F (232°C) for 1 minute to firm it up. Spread half of the prepared sauce evenly over the dough. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese atop the sauce. Evenly distribute half of the sautéed asparagus, half the cooked bacon, and half of the crumbled feta cheese. Bake pizza at 450°F for 8-10 minutes until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly. Repeat the process with the remaining dough and ingredients.
Notes
- Chilling bacon before cutting helps achieve neat, bite-sized pieces.
- Pre-baking the pizza dough briefly creates a sturdier base that holds toppings better.
- Be careful not to overcook the bacon or asparagus during sautéing since they will continue cooking in the oven.
- Use fresh asparagus for the best texture and flavor.
- You can substitute part of the mozzarella with other cheeses like provolone if desired.
