Pesto ham pizza: the homemade recipe that beats the classic

Craving a quick, homemade pizza that pulls together in under an hour? This pesto, ham and onion pizza delivers a crisp crust, creamy notes and a savory finish. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for an impromptu dinner or casual get-together.

Ingredients for an easy pesto, ham and onion pizza (serves 4)

• For the dough:

• 250 g all-purpose flour
• 10 g fresh baker’s yeast
• 150 ml lukewarm water
• 2 tbsp neutral oil
• ½ tsp fine salt

• For the topping:

• 3 slices cooked ham, torn into pieces
• 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
• 30 g thick cream (around 15% fat)
• 1 small jar of pesto (basil or alternative)
• 100 g grated gruyère or similar melting cheese

Tip: Use a store-bought pizza base if time is limited.

How to make a light, crispy pizza dough

1. Pour flour into a bowl. Add salt on one side and crumble the yeast on the other.
2. Make a well, add water and oil, then mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead briefly until smooth and elastic, about 5–8 minutes by hand.
4. Cover with a clean towel and let rise in a warm place for about 2 hours, until doubled.
5. Deflate gently by folding the dough over itself, then shape on a floured surface.

Quick dough shortcuts

• For faster results, use warm environment or proof for 45–60 minutes with active yeast.
• Roll thin for extra crispiness or leave slightly thicker for a chewier crust.

Assemble and bake: fast steps to a golden pizza

1. Preheat oven to 210°C (410°F). Position the rack near the center.
2. Spread a thin layer of cream over the rolled dough, then spoon on pesto.
3. Scatter the sliced onions and torn ham evenly across the surface.
4. Top with grated gruyère and slide onto a hot baking tray or stone.
5. Bake 12–18 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted.

Watch closely in the last minutes so the onions caramelize but don’t burn.

Flavor swaps and cheese choices to customize your pizza

• Replace classic basil pesto with arugula or sun-dried tomato pesto for a different aroma.
• Use mozzarella for a stringy melt, or add a sprinkle of parmesan for a sharp bite.
• Try smoked ham or prosciutto for a more intense flavor profile.
• Add fresh herbs after baking: basil, thyme or a drizzle of olive oil lift the final plate.

Serving ideas, pairings and storage tips

• Serve hot or slightly warm with a crisp green salad.
• Roasted cherry tomatoes make a bright, complementary side.
• Leftovers reheat well in a skillet or oven to keep the crust crisp.
• Store wrapped in the fridge for up to 48 hours; refresh in a hot oven before serving.

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Sienna Blake

Sienna curates soulful lifestyle content with a focus on intentional living, slow habits, and modern creativity. Her voice blends beauty, function, and joy.