How to Make Italian Pizzette for a Fun Dinner

Pizzette, the mini pizza that's perfect for sharing, are a delightful Italian treat that can add fun and flavor to any dinner. Whether you’re hosting a family night or a casual get-together with friends, making pizzette is simple and satisfying. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you create these tasty bites at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make delicious Italian pizzette, gather the following ingredients:

1 package of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Olive oil
Tomato sauce (preferably homemade or high-quality canned)
Fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
Fresh basil leaves
Your choice of toppings (pepperoni, vegetables, anchovies, etc.)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Instructions to Make Pizzette

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

If you are using store-bought pizza dough, allow it to come to room temperature according to the package instructions. If making dough from scratch, prepare it ahead of time and let it rise until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven as it heats up to ensure a crispy crust.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out small circles, typically around 3-4 inches in diameter. Gather any scraps and roll them out again to cut more pizzette.

Step 4: Assemble the Pizzette

Grease a baking sheet with olive oil or line it with parchment paper. Place the cut dough circles on the prepared baking sheet. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on each circle, leaving a small border around the edges. Top with slices of fresh mozzarella and your choice of toppings.

Step 5: Bake the Pizzette

Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. If you are using a pizza stone, you may wish to bake them directly on the stone for even better results.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the pizzette from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with fresh basil, a drizzle of olive oil, and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve warm with a side of extra tomato sauce for dipping.

Tips for Perfect Pizzette

Experiment with different sauces like pesto or barbecue for a unique twist.
Get creative with toppings, including grilled vegetables, different cheeses, or cured meats.
If you're serving a crowd, prepare a variety of pizzette to cater to everyone’s tastes.

Pizzette are not only easy to make but also a fun interactive dining experience. Let your guests choose their toppings and create their own personalized mini pizzas. This not only makes for a delicious meal but also encourages creativity and conversation around the dinner table. Enjoy your Italian pizzette night!