Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy basil pesto ranch adds incredible flavor
Crispy crust with melty cheese and savory toppings
Easy to customize with favorite ingredients
Perfect for pizza nights or gatherings
Fresh herb flavor balanced with rich cheese
Fun and unique twist on traditional pizza

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pizza dough
basil pesto
ranch dressing
mozzarella cheese
parmesan cheese
cherry tomatoes
cooked chicken or bacon
red onion
olive oil
garlic
salt
black pepper
fresh basil for garnish

Directions

Preheat the oven to 475°F or according to your pizza dough instructions.
Roll out the pizza dough onto a lightly floured surface or pizza pan.
In a small bowl, mix the basil pesto and ranch dressing until smooth.
Spread the pesto ranch sauce evenly over the pizza dough.
Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the sauce.
Add cherry tomatoes, cooked chicken or bacon, and sliced red onion evenly across the pizza.
Brush the crust lightly with olive oil and garlic for extra flavor.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 to 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use grilled vegetables instead of meat for a vegetarian version.
Add spinach or arugula after baking for freshness.
Use spicy ranch dressing for extra heat.
Add feta cheese or goat cheese for tangy flavor.
Top with crushed red pepper flakes for spice.
Use a cauliflower crust for a lighter option.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, warm slices in the oven, air fryer, or skillet to maintain a crispy crust. Microwaving works but may soften the crust.

Pizza can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen for best results.

FAQs

What is basil pesto ranch?

It is a creamy sauce made by combining basil pesto with ranch dressing for a rich and herbaceous flavor.

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, store-bought pesto works perfectly and saves preparation time.

What toppings go well with pesto ranch pizza?

Chicken, bacon, tomatoes, onions, spinach, mushrooms, and roasted vegetables all pair well.

Can I make this pizza vegetarian?

Absolutely. Simply skip the meat and add extra vegetables or cheese.

What cheese works best for this recipe?

Mozzarella and parmesan provide the best melt and flavor combination.

Can I grill the pizza instead of baking it?

Yes, grilled pizza adds a delicious smoky flavor and crispy crust.

How do I keep the crust crispy?

Bake the pizza at a high temperature and avoid overloading it with sauce.

Can I use homemade pizza dough?

Yes, homemade dough works wonderfully and adds fresh flavor.

Is pesto ranch pizza spicy?

Not usually, but you can add crushed red pepper flakes or spicy ranch for heat.

What should I serve with this pizza?

A green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread pair very well.

Conclusion

Pizza with Basil Pesto Ranch is a flavorful and satisfying twist on traditional pizza that combines creamy herb sauce, melted cheese, and savory toppings into one irresistible dish. Perfect for family dinners, game nights, or casual entertaining, this pizza offers bold flavor and endless customization options. Once you try it, it may quickly become a new pizza night favorite.

Pizza with Basil Pesto Ranch

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Pizza with Basil Pesto Ranch is a bold and flavorful twist on classic pizza featuring creamy basil pesto ranch sauce, gooey melted cheese, and savory toppings on a crispy crust. Perfect for pizza nights or casual gatherings, this recipe delivers rich herb flavor and comforting cheesy goodness.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 to 6 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American
Diet: Low Calorie

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 475°F or according to your pizza dough instructions.
Roll out the pizza dough onto a lightly floured surface or pizza pan.
In a small bowl, mix the basil pesto and ranch dressing until smooth.
Spread the pesto ranch sauce evenly over the pizza dough.
Sprinkle the mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the sauce.
Top with cherry tomatoes, cooked chicken or bacon, and sliced red onion.
Mix the olive oil and minced garlic, then brush lightly around the crust edges.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Notes

Use grilled vegetables instead of meat for a vegetarian version.
Spinach or arugula can be added after baking for extra freshness.
Spicy ranch dressing or red pepper flakes add extra heat.
Feta or goat cheese make excellent additions for tangy flavor.
A cauliflower crust can be used for a lighter option.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven, air fryer, or skillet for the crispiest crust.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 380 kcal
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 720 mg
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 36 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 18 g
Cholesterol: 35 mg