Black-and-Blue Pizzas are a unique and mouthwatering twist on the classic pizza. This indulgent dish combines the flavors of a blackened steak with the creaminess of blue cheese, all on top of a crisp pizza crust. The contrasting elements of savory, spicy, and tangy create a culinary adventure for the taste buds. With its origins in American cuisine and its popularity growing nationwide, Black-and-Blue Pizzas offer a delightful combination of flavors that is sure to impress pizza lovers and steak enthusiasts alike.

The history of Black-and-Blue Pizzas can be traced back to the fusion of American and Italian culinary traditions. While pizza has its roots in Italian cuisine, the idea of combining blackened steak and blue cheese on a pizza crust is a distinctly American twist.

The concept of blackening, which involves heavily seasoning meat with a blend of spices and searing it until charred, originated in Louisiana. This cooking technique, popularized by Cajun cuisine, creates a smoky and spicy flavor profile. The combination of blackened steak and blue cheese is a marriage of bold flavors, with the sharp tanginess of the cheese complementing the robustness of the blackened meat.

Today, Black-and-Blue Pizzas can be found on menus of pizzerias and restaurants across the United States. They have become a popular choice for those seeking a unique and adventurous pizza experience. The combination of blackened steak and blue cheese adds a bold and elevated twist to a beloved classic, offering a flavor profile that is sure to impress.

PREP: 40 MIN.

BAKE: 15 MIN.

MAKES: 2 PIZZAS (12 PIECES EACH)

INGREDIENTS

• Pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 8 ounces steak (such as ribeye or strip steak), thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup crumbled blue cheese
• Optional toppings: caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, fresh herbs

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to the temperature specified on the pizza dough package or to 450°F (230°C) for homemade dough.
2. Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness and shape.
3. Transfer the rolled-out dough to a pizza stone or baking sheet.
4. Pre-bake the pizza crust in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until it is slightly golden and cooked through. This step ensures a crispy crust.
5. While the crust is pre-baking, prepare the blackened steak by combining the paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and black pepper in a small bowl.
6. Season the thinly sliced steak on both sides with the spice blend, ensuring it is evenly coated.
7. Heat a skillet or grill pan over high heat. Cook the seasoned steak for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until it is cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
8. Once the pre-baked pizza crust is ready, remove it from the oven and evenly distribute the cooked steak slices on top.
9. Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese over the steak, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
10. If desired, add any optional toppings such as caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms.
11. Return the pizza to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and slightly bubbly.
12. Remove the Black-and-Blue Pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
13. Slice the pizza and serve it hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

NOTES:

• Black-and-Blue Pizzas are a culinary adventure that combines the bold flavors of blackened steak and creamy blue cheese on a crisp pizza crust. This unique twist on the classic pizza offers a tantalizing combination of savory, spicy, and tangy flavors that is sure to delight. Whether enjoyed as a special treat or shared with friends and family, Black-and-Blue Pizzas are a delicious testament to the creativity and versatility of pizza-making.