Apple Cheddar Rosemary Bacon Pizza

Apple Cheddar Rosemary Bacon Pizza is the magic you crave when you want to impress with flavors both homey and unexpected. Sweet golden apples, smoky bacon, sharp cheddar and the perfume of rosemary come together on a classic pizza dough with a creamy white sauce that makes this meal memorable any night of the week.

I first made this for a cozy fall get-together and everyone was reaching for seconds before I finished slicing. Now it is my go-to when I want something special fast but with the comfort you expect from homemade pizza.

Ingredients

• Pizza dough: Look for one with lots of bubbles or make your own for a crisp chewy crust
• Golden delicious apples: Thin slices give the right sweetness and tenderness Use apples that are firm to the touch
• Cheddar cheese: Sharp or medium works Aim for freshly shredded so it melts well
• Rosemary: Fresh rosemary adds earthy brightness Gently bruise with your fingers to release its oils before chopping
• Bacon: Thicker slices crisp nicely Pick center-cut for less grease
• Yellow onion: Adds sweet savoriness Dice them small for even cooking
• Garlic cloves: Mincing helps them melt into the sauce
• Unsalted butter: Creates a rich sauce Start with cold butter for better control
• All-purpose flour: Thickens the white sauce Sift to avoid clumping
• Chicken broth: Boosts flavor Use a low-sodium option so you can control seasoning
• Whole milk: Adds creaminess Higher fat milk means a silkier sauce
• Oregano: Dried oregano highlights the apple and cheddar
• Mozzarella: Gives a stretchy gooey finish Pick whole milk mozzarella for richness
• Basil or micro greens: Freshness on top at the end Choose fragrant small leaves
• Salt and pepper: Season to taste Freshly ground makes the difference

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep and Roast the Bacon:

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees and line a baking sheet with foil Spray lightly with nonstick spray Arrange bacon slices evenly and sprinkle them with chopped rosemary and a dash of pepper Roast for around twelve to fourteen minutes until perfectly crisp Remove bacon onto a paper towel and chop once cooled

Make the White Sauce:

Warm a medium skillet over medium heat and melt the butter Once melted add diced onion and minced garlic Cook gently stirring often for about four minutes until everything smells sweet and is turning soft Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for a full minute to cook away any raw taste Slowly pour in chicken broth and milk stirring non stop Add oregano Continue stirring for three minutes until the sauce thickens to a velvety coat Remove from the heat and fold in shredded mozzarella until smooth

Build the Pizza:

Grab your second baking sheet and spray with nonstick spray Roll out your pizza dough to fit the pan A nine by thirteen rectangle works best Spread the warm white sauce over the dough in an even layer but leave a one inch border around the edges for that classic pizza bite

Add Toppings and Bake:

Shingle your thin apple slices all over the sauced dough to cover Sprinkle your chopped rosemary bacon over the top Next scatter generously with shredded cheddar cheese so every bite is covered Bake for around twenty minutes or until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbling

Finish and Serve:

Slide pizza out of the oven Sprinkle over fresh basil or micro greens for color and a pop of freshness Let stand for a couple minutes before slicing so the cheese sets slightly Serve while still hot and melty

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Every time I add extra rosemary the pizza feels even cozier to me. It is my secret ingredient and it reminds me of my grandmother's garden where we used to brush our hands through wild rosemary before heading inside to cook.

Storage Tips

Let any leftover pizza cool to room temperature before wrapping it tightly Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat on a hot skillet or in a low oven to revive the crust's texture Microwaving works but loses some crispness

Ingredient Substitutions

Switch golden delicious apples for honeycrisp or gala if needed You can use turkey bacon for a lighter option If you want a bolder cheese punch try smoked cheddar or even a bit of gruyere For the sauce unsweetened oat milk can replace the whole milk but do not use low fat which will thin out the sauce

Serving Suggestions

This pizza does well with a simple arugula salad with lemon Vinaigrette which balances out the richness Thinly sliced pears can be swapped for apples for a seasonal twist For parties try slicing into small squares for appetizers Serve with a white wine with good acidity or a sparkling cider

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This Apple Cheddar Rosemary Bacon Pizza will become your new cool weather favorite thanks to that perfect balance of creamy savory and just a hint of sweetness. Cooking it always makes me think of those family pizza nights when everyone had a hand in scattering toppings and sneaking bits of cheese while we waited for the kitchen timer.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do apples enhance the pizza's flavor?

Golden apples add natural sweetness and juiciness, balancing the savory flavors of cheese, bacon, and herbs with a crisp bite.

→ Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, store-bought dough works well and saves time. Ensure it's rolled out to an even thickness for optimal baking.

→ What cheese substitutes are recommended?

You can swap cheddar with gouda or gruyère for a different flavor profile, keeping the cheese melty and rich.

→ Is it possible to make the pizza vegetarian?

Omit the bacon or use a plant-based alternative. The apples, cheeses, and rosemary still create a flavorful combination.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Place cooled slices in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat on a baking sheet for best results.