If you’re craving a pizza that delivers bold, savory flavors and a satisfying texture, look no further than this incredible Meatball Pizza. Combining crispy crust, tangy tomato sauce, gooey cheese, and juicy meatballs, this homemade feast promises to win over any crowd. Whether you’re serving it for a weekend family dinner or an exciting pizza night with friends, this recipe will become your go-to for a delicious, comforting meal that’s bursting with flavor from every slice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ultimate Comfort Food: Meatball Pizza combines two all-time favorites into one irresistible dish.
Easy to Prep: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for cooks of any level.
Juicy and Flavorful: Homemade meatballs packed with herbs add a savory richness you won’t get from store-bought toppings.
Crispy, Cheesy Perfection: The crust crisps beautifully in the oven, while the cheese melts to gooey perfection.
Customizable: This recipe is a fantastic base for adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting for dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every component in this Meatball Pizza is essential, contributing to the perfect harmony of textures and flavors. From the fragrant herbs in the meatballs to the vibrant tomato sauce, each ingredient is carefully chosen to create a homemade pizza that tastes like it came from your favorite pizzeria.

Ground Beef and Pork Blend: Combining both adds moisture and great flavor to your meatballs.
Italian Seasoning: This mix of herbs infuses the meatballs with classic flavors of oregano, basil, and thyme.
Fresh Garlic: Adds a pungent, aromatic punch to both the meatballs and sauce.
Tomato Sauce: Use a rich, well-seasoned sauce to create a tangy base that complements the toppings.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The melty, creamy cheese is essential for that gooey pizza texture everyone loves.
Pizza Dough: A crispy, chewy crust is the foundation of this dish; homemade or store-bought dough works well.
Grated Parmesan: Adds a sharp, salty finish, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Fresh Basil or Parsley: Garnish your pizza for a fresh, vibrant touch and visual appeal.
Olive Oil: Brushed on the crust for extra golden crispness and flavor.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional): A subtle heat to spice up your pizza if desired.

Variations for Meatball Pizza

One of the best parts about this Meatball Pizza recipe is how easy it is to customize. You can tailor the ingredients to fit your taste preferences, dietary restrictions, or what you have on hand, enabling you to enjoy your perfect pizza every single time.

Vegetarian Option: Substitute meatballs with hearty vegetarian or plant-based meatballs to keep the flavor but cut the meat.
Spicy Twist: Add chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce over the top for an exciting kick.
Cheese Variety: Mix mozzarella with provolone or add goat cheese for a creamier, tangier profile.
Gluten-Free Crust: Swap the regular dough for a gluten-free alternative so everyone can indulge.
Extra Veggie Load: Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or caramelized onions for added texture and flavor.

How to Make Meatball Pizza

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

Start by combining ground beef and pork with garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs for the perfect juicy texture. Roll the mixture into small, evenly-sized balls and bake or pan-fry them until golden brown and cooked through. This step ensures your meatballs are packed with flavor before hitting the pizza.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Dough

While the meatballs cook, preheat your oven to at least 475°F (245°C) to guarantee a crispy crust. Roll out your pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness. For a chewy and slightly crispy base, aim for a medium-thick crust and place your dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza stone.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza

Spread a generous layer of tangy tomato sauce evenly over your pizza dough. Then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese across the surface, making sure to leave a little border for the crust. Arrange the cooked meatballs on top, giving each slice a nice piece of protein. Finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a light drizzle of olive oil.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crisp, the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned, and the meatballs are fully warmed through. Keep an eye on the pizza to avoid burning and ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Add Fresh Garnishes and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the top for a fresh burst of flavor and color. If you enjoy a hint of heat, now is the perfect time to add red pepper flakes. Slice up your Meatball Pizza and enjoy it hot for the best taste experience.

Pro Tips for Making Meatball Pizza

Make Meatballs Small: Smaller meatballs cook more evenly and fit nicely on each slice.
Use a Pizza Stone: If possible, bake on a pizza stone to achieve the crispiest crust possible.
Don’t Overload Sauce: Too much sauce can make the crust soggy, so spread it evenly but sparingly.
Let Dough Rest: Allow your dough to come to room temperature before stretching to avoid tearing.
Brush Crust with Oil: Olive oil on the crust before baking adds flavor and helps prevent dryness.

How to Serve Meatball Pizza

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or oregano add vibrant color and a burst of aromatic freshness. A sprinkle of Parmesan or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can elevate the flavors even more, turning a simple pizza into a gourmet delight.

Side Dishes

Pair your Meatball Pizza with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic breadsticks or roasted vegetables are fantastic complements that keep the meal satisfying yet light.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun sharing experience, serve your pizza sliced alongside small bowls of extra sauce, grated cheese, and chili flakes. You can also stack mini Meatball Pizza bites on skewers for a party-friendly, handheld treat guaranteed to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, wrap leftover Meatball Pizza tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Refrigerate for up to 3 days, ensuring you enjoy every last slice without loss of flavor or texture.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze leftover pizza slices by placing parchment paper between them and storing in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze up to 2 months for the best taste and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat pizza in a hot, dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to revive the crispy crust or in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until heated through. Avoid microwaving when possible, as it tends to make the crust chewy or soggy.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought meatballs for Meatball Pizza?

Yes, store-bought meatballs save time and work well, but homemade meatballs provide a fresher, more personalized flavor.

What type of cheese works best on Meatball Pizza?

Mozzarella is classic for its melt and mild taste, but mixing in provolone or Parmesan adds more depth and richness.

Can I make this pizza gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap out the regular dough for your favorite gluten-free crust and ensure all toppings meet your dietary needs.

How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Brush the crust with olive oil before adding sauce and avoid overloading the pizza with too much sauce or wet toppings.

What’s the best way to store leftover Meatball Pizza?

Refrigerate wrapped tightly in an airtight container for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage using parchment paper to separate slices.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of baking your own Meatball Pizza at home—crispy, cheesy, and loaded with juicy meatballs that bring every bite to life. This recipe is straightforward enough for busy weeknights but special enough for gatherings, making it a delicious choice you’ll want to make again and again. So grab your ingredients, warm up that oven, and treat yourself to a slice of your new favorite homemade feast!

Meatball Pizza

Print Recipe

This Meatball Pizza recipe combines a crispy crust, tangy tomato sauce, gooey mozzarella cheese, and juicy homemade meatballs packed with Italian herbs for an ultimate comfort food experience. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, it’s perfect for family dinners or pizza nights with friends, offering a customizable and flavorful meal bursting with savory goodness in every slice.

Author: Sophie
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 1 12-inch pizza (serves 4) 1x
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American
Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free dough is used)

Ingredients

Scale

Meatballs

1/2 lb ground beef
1/2 lb ground pork
2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Pizza Base and Toppings

1 batch pizza dough (homemade or store-bought, enough for one 12-inch pizza)
1/2 cup rich tomato sauce
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)

Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Roll the mixture into small, evenly sized meatballs. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or pan-fry until golden brown and cooked through.
Preheat the Oven and Prepare Dough: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) to ensure a crispy crust. On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough to your desired thickness—ideally medium-thick for a chewy yet crispy base. Transfer the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or a preheated pizza stone.
Assemble the Pizza: Spread a generous but even layer of tomato sauce over the rolled pizza dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese uniformly across the surface. Arrange the cooked meatballs evenly on top so that each slice will have some. Finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and drizzle olive oil lightly over the crust.
Bake to Perfection: Place the assembled pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crisp, the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned, and the meatballs are fully warmed through. Monitor closely to prevent burning.
Add Fresh Garnishes and Serve: After baking, sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the pizza for a bright flavor and visual appeal. Add red pepper flakes if desired for some heat. Slice and serve hot for the best taste experience.

Notes

Make meatballs small for even cooking and perfect fit on each slice.
If possible, bake on a pizza stone for the crispiest crust.
Do not overload sauce to avoid soggy crust; spread evenly but sparingly.
Let dough rest at room temperature before stretching to prevent tearing.
Brush crust with olive oil before baking to add flavor and avoid dryness.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 pizza
Calories: 350 kcal
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 620 mg
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 22 g
Cholesterol: 65 mg

Keywords: Meatball pizza, homemade pizza, Italian pizza, comfort food, easy pizza recipe, pizza night