Heart-Shaped Thick Crust Pizza

Heart-Shaped Thick Crust Pizza – The Perfect Valentine’s Dinner ❤️🍕

Nothing says “I love you” like a homemade pizza, and this Heart-Shaped Thick Crust Pizza is the perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s Day—or any special occasion! With a soft, fluffy sheet pan crust coated in olive oil for extra flavor, this pizza is golden and crisp on the outside while staying pillowy on the inside.

Topped with my favorite combination of sautéed onions, chopped green olives, bell peppers, Italian seasoning, and a generous drizzle of olive oil, this pizza is full of bold, savory flavors that make every bite irresistible.

It also makes for the besttt leftovers!

Why You’ll Love This Pizza

✔ Heart-Shaped & Festive – Perfect for a fun and romantic dinner!✔ Thick, Fluffy Crust – A soft, golden crust with crispy edges.✔ Olive Oil-Coated for Extra Flavor – Infuses every bite with richness.✔ Customizable – Use my favorite toppings or make it your own!

The Recipe: Thick Crust Heart-Shaped Pizza

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 3 ¾ cups (450g) all-purpose flour

• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast

• 1 ½ teaspoons salt

• 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for coating)

Toppings

• Whatever you want! Cheese, sauce, pepperoni, sausage, my favorites are below!

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup crushed tomatoes (or use your favorite jarred tomato sauce for convenience!)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt & pepper to taste

My Favorite "Extra" Topping

• 1 small onion roughly diced

• ½ cup chopped green olives

• ½ cup chopped bell peppers (red or green)

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1/4 cup Olive oil

  • Sautee everything thing together for about 5-10 minutes, then use the olive oil to coat the sheet pan and your dough before topping. Then use the olives, onions, and bell peppers as part of your toppings. Once you try it you will never go back to regular pizza!

Instructions

1. Make the Dough

1. Mix the Dough:

   • By Hand: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, yeast, and salt. Add warm water and olive oil, then mix until a shaggy dough forms.

   • In a Stand Mixer: Attach the dough hook and mix on low, gradually adding the warm water and olive oil until a dough forms.

2. Knead the Dough:

   • By Hand: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

   • In a Stand Mixer: Knead on low speed for 5 minutes. Stop and let the dough rest for 2 minutes, then knead again for another 2 minutes—this helps develop the gluten and makes a softer crust.

3. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 60–90 minutes, or until doubled in size.

2. Shape the Dough

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (232°C).

2. Generously coat a sheet pan with olive oil—this adds flavor and creates a crispy bottom crust.

3. Punch down the dough and roll it out into a large heart shape on a floured surface.

4. Transfer the dough to the oiled pan and press it out to fit. Brush the top of the crust with more olive oil.

5. If you are having trouble getting the dough to hold shape, stretch it as much as possible to the shape, then let it sit a few minutes and try again. Each time the dough will stretch better.

3. Prepare the Sauce & Toppings

1. Make the Sauce: If using crushed tomatoes, stir together with olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. If using jarred sauce, simply warm it slightly and season to taste if needed.

2. Sauté the Onions: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan and cook the sliced onions over medium heat until soft and golden.

4. Assemble & Bake

1. Spread a thin layer of sauce over the dough.

2. Sprinkle on the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

3. Add the sautéed onions, chopped olives, and bell peppers.

4. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and drizzle with extra olive oil.

5. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

5. Serve & Enjoy!

Let the pizza cool slightly before slicing. Serve with a side of marinara for dipping or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Heart-Shaped Pizza

• Oil the Pan Well: This ensures a crispy, golden bottom crust with amazing flavor.

• Rest & Knead Again: After an initial knead, let the dough rest for 2 minutes before kneading again—this improves the texture!

• Go Heavy on the Olive Oil: Brushing the crust with olive oil before baking makes it extra rich and flavorful.

• Preheat the Oven Properly: A hot oven (450°F) helps create a crisp, bakery-style crust.

• Customize It: Add your favorite toppings—pepperoni, mushrooms, or even spicy jalapeños!

Why This Is the Perfect Valentine’s Dinner

💖 Fun & Romantic – A heart-shaped pizza is festive, creative, and way better than takeout!💖 Easy & Homemade – No need to stress over reservations—this is a hands-on meal made with love.💖 Customizable for Everyone – Make it just how you like it!

Pair this Heart-Shaped Pizza with a glass of wine, some chocolate dessert, and a cozy movie night for the ultimate Valentine’s celebration at home.

If you make this, I’d love to see it! Tag me on Instagram @Weeknight_Homemaker so I can check out your pizza creations.

Happy baking!

Lauren 💕

The Weeknight Homemaker