Carnitas pizza might not be the first dish that comes to mind when you think of classic pizza toppings, but this recipe, inspired by the Pioneer Woman, Ree Drummond, is a game-changer. This isn’t your average pizza; it’s a carnivore’s delight, blending the rich, savory flavors of slow-cooked beef carnitas with the familiar comfort of pizza. Imagine tender, juicy, pineapple-infused beef, paired with tangy tomatillo salsa, melted mozzarella, and sautéed peppers and onions, all on a crispy crust. This Pioneer Woman Carnitas pizza recipe is a surprisingly delicious and unforgettable culinary adventure.
The Magic of Slow-Cooked Carnitas
The heart of this exceptional pizza lies in the carnitas. Carnitas, meaning “little meats” in Spanish, traditionally refers to braised or simmered meat, often pork. In this Pioneer Woman adaptation, chuck roast takes center stage, slow-cooked to succulent perfection in pineapple juice. This slow cooking process is crucial; it’s what transforms a tough cut of beef into incredibly tender, flavorful carnitas.
For the carnitas, you’ll need:
- 3-4 lbs chuck roast
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- 2 12 oz cans pineapple, papaya, or mango juice
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
The magic begins with searing the seasoned chuck roast to lock in the flavors. Then, the pineapple juice is added, creating a braising liquid that tenderizes the beef and infuses it with a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the savory spices. Roasting in the oven for about 4 hours at 300 degrees Fahrenheit allows the meat to become fall-apart tender and absorb all the delicious flavors. The pineapple juice is not just a tenderizer; it’s a flavor enhancer, creating a unique and irresistible carnitas experience that is far from ordinary.
Close-up shot of Pioneer Woman carnitas pizza with beef, toppings, and melted cheese
Building the Pioneer Woman Carnitas Pizza
Once the carnitas are slow-cooking and filling your kitchen with an enticing aroma, it’s time to prepare the pizza components. While the original recipe suggests homemade pizza dough, feel free to use your favorite store-bought dough to save time. A thin crust works best to balance the richness of the toppings.
For the pizza itself, you will need:
- 1 recipe for pizza dough
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- 1 cup jarred tomatillo salsa, plus more for serving
- 12 ounces fresh mozzarella, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced and sautéed until golden
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced and sautéed until golden
- 3 green onions, sliced
- Sour cream and guacamole for serving (optional)
The base of this pizza is not your typical tomato sauce but a vibrant tomatillo salsa. This adds a tangy, slightly spicy, and distinctly Mexican flavor profile that beautifully complements the carnitas. Spread a thin layer of tomatillo salsa over the pizza dough, followed by slices of fresh mozzarella, sautéed yellow onions, and red bell peppers. These vegetables add a touch of sweetness and texture that balances the richness of the meat.
Image showing the assembly process of carnitas pizza with dough, salsa, cheese, and toppings
Baking to Perfection and Serving Suggestions
Baking this carnitas pizza is quick and easy. Preheat your oven to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Drizzle a baking sheet with olive oil, transfer the prepared pizza dough, and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Once the pizza is out of the oven, the star ingredient – the shredded carnitas – is generously layered on top. Don’t forget to spoon some of the flavorful juices over the pizza; this adds moisture and intensifies the carnitas flavor. Finally, sprinkle with fresh green onions for a pop of color and a mild oniony bite.
Serving suggestions are flexible and can be tailored to your taste. For an extra layer of coolness and creaminess, consider serving with sour cream and guacamole. And to truly complete the Pioneer Woman experience, why not pair this carnitas pizza with mango margaritas, as the original recipe creator suggests?
Final presentation of Pioneer Woman beef carnitas pizza, sliced and ready to serve
Why This Pioneer Woman Carnitas Pizza Recipe is a Must-Try
This Pioneer Woman carnitas pizza is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s a delightful fusion of Mexican-inspired carnitas and Italian-American pizza, creating a unique and unforgettable dish. The slow-cooked beef is incredibly flavorful and tender, and the combination of tomatillo salsa, mozzarella, and sautéed vegetables works harmoniously.
Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing meal for game day, a fun family dinner, or simply want to try something different and delicious, this carnitas pizza recipe is a must-try. It’s a testament to the Pioneer Woman’s knack for creating approachable yet exciting recipes that deliver big on flavor and satisfaction. So, ditch the usual pizza toppings and embark on a culinary adventure with this epic Pioneer Woman carnitas pizza. You won’t be disappointed.
