The Origin of Supreme Pizza Supreme pizza is the ultimate loaded pizza. It contains a variety of meats, vegetables, and cheeses piled high on a delicious crust. But where did this now-classic pie originate from?
The earliest known supreme pizza appeared on the 1974 menu for Ray’s Pizza in New York City.
The original creator is unclear, but the concept quickly spread. Various pizzerias put their own spin on the supreme with slight variations in toppings.
The abundance of ingredients makes supreme pizza a hearty, satisfying meal instead of an average slice.
Customers loved the indulgence of getting “the works” all in one pizza. The arrangement of toppings in symmetric rows or circles also made for eye-catching presentation.
Over time, supreme pizza has become a menu staple across pizzerias big and small. While recipes vary, they all include a stacked combination of proteins and produce.
The balance of flavors and textures is the hallmark of a well-crafted supreme.
Characteristics of Supreme Pizza
So what defines a supreme pizza? Here are the key qualities:
Loaded with toppings
A true supreme pizza overflows with toppings. The more the merrier! Seriously though, you can go too far with toppings, but more on that later.
Two or more meats
Pepperoni, sausage, bacon, ham are all popular protein options. But, dont stop there, you can go wild with brisket, salmon, anchovies and more!
Combo of veggies
Onions, mushrooms, tomatoes, peppers, and olives frequently appear but there is no “rule” here.
Extra cheese
Loads of mozzarella holds this loaded pie together.
Symmetric arrangement
Toppings are evenly and intentionally arranged rather than scattered.
Thick crust (optional)
A substantial crust can support mounds of toppings and prevents sogginess. But lets be real, it can be made in all styles, deep dish, thin crust, etc. Do what YOU like.
Abundant sauce
Sauce binds toppings and provides a fresh, acidic flavor contrast.
Delicate balance
No single topping overpowers. Each adds a complementary taste and texture.
In essence, supreme provides the thrill of all your favorite pizza flavors in each bite.
The diversity of components makes it interesting without being chaotic. Next we’ll explore some winning combinations.
Crafting the Supreme Pizza Topping Mix
The exact assortment of meats, veggies, and cheeses on a supreme pizza varies by region and pizzeria. But here are some sure-fire mixes to try:
- Pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, green peppers, black olives
- Pepperoni, bacon, ground beef, mushrooms, red onion, black and green olives
- Italian sausage, salami, green olives, banana peppers, tomatoes, red onions
- Chicken, bacon, spinach, tomatoes, red peppers, mozzarella
- Ham, pineapple, red peppers, sliced jalapenos, red onion, extra cheese
The right supreme pizza formula has a good balance. Aim for 2-4 meats, 1-3 veggies, and extra cheese.
Include some acidic elements like tomato and some spicy flavors from jalapenos or peppers.
But feel free to get creative with your own supreme twist. Swap out ingredients to accommodate dietary needs.
For instance, use plant-based sausage or dairy-free cheese to make a vegan supreme pizza.
Where to Order Supreme Pizza
Many national pizza chains offer their own take on supreme pizza. Here are some of the most popular versions:
- Pizza Hut – A mix of pork and beef pepperoni, Italian sausage, green bell peppers, red onion, mushrooms
- Domino’s – Pepperoni, Italian sausage, onions, green peppers, and mushrooms
- Papa John’s – Pepperoni, Italian sausage, fresh mushrooms, green peppers and onions
- Little Caesars – Pepperoni, Italian sausage, onion, green pepper, and mushroom
Of course, local pizzerias also serve up delicious supreme pizzas. Check menus or call around to find a supreme pie with your ideal toppings nearby.
For the best freshness and quality control, skip the delivery and make your own supreme pizza at home. It takes a bit more effort but pays off in customization and flavor.
Tips for Making Supreme Pizza
Crafting a perfect supreme pizza at home does take some finesse. Follow these pro tips for success:
- Pre-cook meats and drain well to avoid a greasy pie
- Thinly slice veggies so they cook through fully
- Sprinkle cornmeal on the pizza peel for easy launching
- Use a rimless baking sheet to catch drips while cooking
- Rotate pizza mid-bake for even crisping of the crust
- Finish under the broiler if bottom crust is done before toppings
- Allow to rest 3-5 minutes before slicing for easier cutting
With the right technique, your homemade supreme will rival any pizzeria! Now let’s get to the recipe.
Supreme Pizza Recipe
Try your hand at this crowd-pleasing supreme pizza right at home:
Supreme Pizza Dough Recipe:
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 1⁄4 cup warm water
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the yeast, warm water and sugar. Allow to rest until foamy, about 10 minutes.
- In a food processor, combine the flour and salt. Pulse to mix. With the machine running, pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
- On a floured surface knead the dough for 2-3 minutes until no longer sticky, adding flour as needed.
- Place dough in an oiled bowl, flip to coat, and cover with plastic wrap. Let rise 1 hour.
- Punch down dough, divide in half. Shape each into a ball and let rest 10 more minutes.
Pizza Sauce:
- 1 15oz can crushed tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic for 1 minute.
- Add remaining ingredients and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
Toppings:
- 8oz sliced pepperoni
- 8oz Italian sausage, removed from casings
- 4oz sliced mushrooms
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 4oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2oz parmesan cheese, grated
Now roll out your dough and get ready to load it up! Follow your supreme pizza inspiration, while leaving a 1/2 inch crust border.
Bake at 500F for 12-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is crispy. Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving. Dig in!
The many components of supreme pizza make it a fun weekend cooking project. Get the whole family involved assembling these super-sized pies.
Troubleshooting Supreme Pizza Issues
With so many ingredients involved, there are a few potential pitfalls when making supreme pizza:
- If meats or veggies make the crust soggy, pre-cook them first to remove excess moisture before topping raw dough.
- Prevent a greasy pie by thoroughly draining pre-cooked meats and blotting oil from other toppings.
- If toppings are sliding around, allow dough to rest after shaping so it relaxes and firms up enough to hold toppings.
- For thorough cooking of all components, use plenty of sauce as a base and distribute toppings evenly.
It may take some trial and error to perfect the loaded supreme pizza of your dreams. But the delicious outcomes are well worth the practice.
The Joys of Homemade Supreme Pizza
Sure you can call your local pizza shop and order a supreme. But nothing beats the flavor, creativity, and fun of DIY supreme pizza.
Making your own allows you to:
- Customize your perfect topping mix with your family’s favorites
- Use the freshest, highest quality ingredients
- Save money compared to takeout or delivery
- Impress guests by serving homemade gourmet pizza
- Introduce kids to cooking with a delicious hands-on meal
- Enjoy a cozy weekend activity for making family memories
Supreme pizza brings people together through a shared love of flavorful food and good company. Take your pizza night over the top with this ultimate piled-high pie.
