Name: Overloaded BBQ Rib Slab Pizza with Cheddar Crust Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (can substitute with gluten-free flour); 1 tablespoon sugar (honey or agave can be used); 1 packet instant yeast (activate active dry yeast in warm water if using); 1 teaspoon salt (essential for flavor); 1 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C); 2 tablespoons olive oil (can use melted butter instead); 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (substitute with mild cheddar if preferred); 1 cup BBQ sauce (choose sweet or smoky profile); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (can use Monterey Jack for more melt); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (mix different cheeses for added flavor); 2 cups cooked BBQ ribs (can substitute with pulled pork or smoked chicken); 1 small red onion (can use yellow onion for milder taste); 1/2 cup crispy bacon bits (optional); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (for garnish)

As I took a bite of my latest culinary creation, I marveled at how BBQ and pizza seamlessly collide in this Overloaded BBQ Rib Slab Pizza (Cheddar Crust Edition). Picture a crispy, cheesy crust cradling tender, smoky rib meat topped with gooey mozzarella and zesty BBQ sauce—each slice a comforting reminder of backyard gatherings. This recipe transforms leftover BBQ ribs into a show-stopping dish that not only satisfies hungry bellies but also celebrates customization; mix and match your favorite toppings for a unique spin every time. Plus, it’s high in protein, making it a fantastic option for anyone seeking hearty, homemade comfort food. Are you ready to elevate your pizza nights and impress friends and family with this mouthwatering masterpiece?

Why is BBQ Rib Slab Pizza a Must-Try?

Transformative: This recipe takes leftover BBQ ribs to new heights, combining comfort food favorites in one delicious slice.
Customizable: Tailor the toppings to fit your mood—switch out the cheeses or add jalapeños for a kick!
Flavor Explosion: The tender rib meat with zesty BBQ sauce creates a unique taste that’s hard to resist.
Time-Saving: Perfect for those busy nights, this dish can be whipped up quickly, delivering maximum flavor without hours in the kitchen.
Crowd-Pleasing: Serve it at your next gathering, and watch it disappear—everyone will be begging for seconds! For more BBQ inspiration, check out my Honey BBQ Chicken or try these tasty BBQ Chicken Quesadillas for a fun twist.

Overloaded BBQ Rib Slab Pizza Ingredients

For the Dough
• All-purpose flour – The backbone of your pizza crust; feel free to replace it with gluten-free flour for a lighter version.
• Sugar – Helps activate the yeast and adds a hint of sweetness; honey or agave can work as substitutes.
• Instant yeast – This leavens the dough quickly; remember to activate active dry yeast in warm water first if you use that.
• Salt – Essential for flavor; don’t skip this step for a beautifully balanced taste.
• Warm water (110°F / 43°C) – This warms the yeast for activation; make sure it’s warm to the touch but not too hot.
• Olive oil – Adds richness and tenderness to the dough; try melted butter for a different taste.

For the Cheese Crust
• Sharp cheddar cheese – Infuses the crust with a robust flavor; if you prefer milder tastes, go for mild cheddar instead.

For the Pizza Toppings
• BBQ sauce – The flavorful base; choose your favorites with either sweet or smoky profiles for your Overloaded BBQ Rib Slab Pizza.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese – Provides that lovely gooey texture; swap in Monterey Jack for an extra melty experience.
• Shredded cheddar cheese – Adds an extra cheesy layer on top; mixing different cheeses can elevate flavor complexity.
• Cooked BBQ ribs – The star of this dish; you can substitute with pulled pork or smoked chicken if ribs aren’t on hand.
• Red onion – Offers a tangy crunch; yellow onions can be milder if that’s more your style.
• Crispy bacon bits – Optional for added flavor and crunch; you can skip them for a lighter pizza.
• Fresh parsley – A sprinkle adds a pop of color and freshness just before serving.

Feel free to play with these ingredients and make this Overloaded BBQ Rib Slab Pizza your own, turning a simple meal into a vibrant, delicious experience everyone will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Overloaded BBQ Rib Slab Pizza (Cheddar Crust Edition)

Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water (110°F / 43°C), sugar, and instant yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy. Next, add in the all-purpose flour, salt, and olive oil. Knead the dough for 6–8 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic, then cover it with a towel and let it rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheddar Crust
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) while you shape the pizza. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to fit your baking sheet or pizza stone. Sprinkle half of the sharp cheddar cheese onto the prepared pan; place the rolled dough on top, pressing down on the edges to seal in the cheddar. This step is crucial for creating that delicious, cheesy crust.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza
Once the dough is prepared, spread a generous layer of BBQ sauce over it, making sure to leave a small border around the edges for the crust. Evenly distribute shredded mozzarella cheese, followed by the remaining cheddar cheese, and then top with thinly sliced red onions, crispy bacon bits, and your BBQ ribs, ensuring that each slice will be packed with flavor.

Step 4: Bake
Place the assembled Overloaded BBQ Rib Slab Pizza in your preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it cooks; you want the crust to turn golden brown and the cheeses to be fully melted and bubbly. The aromas should fill your kitchen, tempting everyone nearby!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once baked to perfection, remove the pizza from the oven and drizzle with additional BBQ sauce for some extra flavor. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top to add a pop of color and freshness. Slice it up while it’s hot, and serve immediately, relishing the comforting fusion of BBQ and pizza.

How to Store and Freeze Overloaded BBQ Rib Slab Pizza

Fridge: Store leftover slices in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and flavorful.

Freezer: For longer preservation, freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes until hot and crispy, preserving that delicious texture of the Overloaded BBQ Rib Slab Pizza.

Make-Ahead Tip: The prepared dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours; just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.

Overloaded BBQ Rib Pizza Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity with this scrumptious dish! Every bite can tell a new story with delightful twists and toppings.

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the dough to make this pizza suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Spicy Twist: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to kick up the heat! Combining sweet and spicy layers adds an exciting flavor dimension.
Cheese Swap: Try using goat cheese or feta for a tangy twist. Mixing bold flavors can elevate the overall taste experience, offering something for every cheese lover.
Veggie Boost: Load up on colorful veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added freshness and crunch. These toppings introduce an engaging texture and burst of colors to your pizza.
BBQ Sauce Variety: Explore different BBQ sauces, such as a honey BBQ or chipotle, to give a personalized flair to the flavor profile. Your chosen sauce can completely transform the taste landscape!
BBQ Chicken Version: Swap out the ribs for shredded BBQ chicken for a lighter option that still holds that same delicious BBQ flavor. It’s a fantastic way to repurpose leftover chicken too!
Bacon Lovers: Double down on the bacon by using thick-cut bacon for added crunch. The additional smokiness creates a satisfying bite with each mouthful.

For more delicious inspiration, you’ll also want to check out my Hearty Pizza Soup or give this French Onion Soup a try for a cozy meal option!

What to Serve with Overloaded BBQ Rib Slab Pizza?

Complement your culinary masterpiece with sides that enhance the BBQ experience while bringing balance to your meal.

Crispy Coleslaw: The fresh crunch cuts through the richness of the pizza, providing a delightful contrast of textures.
Roasted Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky corn is a classic companion that echoes BBQ flavors, adding a touch of summer sweetness.
Light Arugula Salad: A peppery salad with a zesty vinaigrette can refresh your palate and balance the savory notes of the pizza.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks are perfect for mopping up any extra BBQ sauce, ensuring no flavor goes to waste.
Baked Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweet, caramelized edges offer a fantastic textural and flavor contrast to the robust elements of your pizza.
Zesty Pickles: These add tangy flavors to the mix, cutting through the richness and elevating all the delicious tastes on your plate.
Craft Beer: A cold, hoppy beer enhances the savory elements of the BBQ pizza while complementing its hearty flavors perfectly.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with warm cookies, their gooey texture offering a comforting finish after your savory feast.

Helpful Tricks for Overloaded BBQ Rib Slab Pizza

Use a Pizza Stone: For a bakery-quality crispy crust, preheat a pizza stone in the oven before baking. This helps achieve that perfect texture.
Don’t Over Sauce: A common mistake is overwhelming the pizza with BBQ sauce, which can lead to a soggy base. Stick to a thin, even layer for optimal results.
Let Dough Rest: If the dough feels too tight, let it rest for an additional 10 minutes before rolling. This relaxes the gluten, making it easier to shape.
Quality Rib Choice: Choose well-cooked, flavorful ribs for the best taste in your Overloaded BBQ Rib Slab Pizza. Homemade or from a favorite BBQ joint work wonders!
Enhance Leftovers: If you have leftover BBQ ribs, this pizza is a fantastic way to keep mealtime interesting. Experiment with different toppings like veggies or additional cheeses.

Make Ahead Options

These Overloaded BBQ Rib Slab Pizza pieces are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pizza dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and letting it rise, then refrigerating it. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply allow the dough to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling it out. Additionally, the BBQ ribs can be cooked or shredded up to 3 days ahead, stored in an airtight container, and reheated before assembling the pizza. This way, when it’s time to bake, you’ll have delicious, homemade BBQ pizza with minimal effort, just as flavorful as if made fresh!

Overloaded BBQ Rib Slab Pizza with Cheddar Crust Recipe FAQs

What type of ribs work best for this pizza?
I recommend using well-cooked, flavorful BBQ ribs for the best taste. If you have leftovers from your last cookout, those work perfectly! For a change, you can also substitute with pulled pork or smoked chicken if ribs aren’t available.

How should I store leftover Overloaded BBQ Rib Slab Pizza?
Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy your delicious pizza without sacrificing flavor!

Can I freeze Overloaded BBQ Rib Slab Pizza, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then cover tightly with aluminum foil. This helps keep them fresh for up to 2 months. For reheating later, simply remove the wrapping and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes until hot.

What’s the best way to prevent a soggy crust?
To prevent a soggy crust, avoid overloading your pizza with BBQ sauce. Apply a thin, even layer, allowing the crust to maintain its crispness. Using a pizza stone also helps create that delightful crunch.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
If you or your family members have dietary restrictions, simply swap out the cheese for dairy-free alternatives or use gluten-free flour in the dough. Adjust the toppings to include ingredients that fit your dietary needs, ensuring everyone can indulge in this tasty Overloaded BBQ Rib Slab Pizza!