Transform Your Pizza Night: Discover the Ultimate Canned Pantry Hero When You’re Out of Sauce!

So, it’s homemade pizza night, and you’ve got everything ready—except pizza sauce. No worries! Frank Katabas from East Village Pizza in Manhattan has a tasty workaround: use canned chili instead.

Katabas believes that chili can add a unique flavor to your pizza. But, there’s a trick to it. He suggests using chili like a sauce, not just a topping. This helps keep your pizza from getting too soggy. “Control the moisture,” he advises. “Chili should support the pizza’s flavor, not overwhelm it.”

When using canned chili, pay attention to its thickness. Start with a couple of tablespoons for a 12-inch pizza. If you want more sauce, feel free to add it, but if it’s too liquidy, drain some off or simmer it until it thickens.

Choosing the right chili matters! The texture and consistency can vary across brands. Personal favorites include Hormel and Campbell’s.

For your crust, consider using traditional pizza dough, pita, or even naan. To protect your crust from becoming soggy, sprinkle a light layer of cheese before adding the chili, then top with more cheese.

Great Topping Ideas

Chili is versatile! While mozzarella is a classic choice, cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack could enhance the flavors. You might even try toppings like chopped onions, jalapeños, or crushed tortilla chips to add some crunch.

Katabas also has creative suggestions. How about a chili cheese dog pizza? Use Coney-style hot dog chili instead of regular chili, and add a mix of cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Topped with sliced hot dogs and onions, this could be a hit! A drizzle of mustard after baking adds a nice touch.

Or, for a fun twist, try a chili-buffalo chicken pizza. Start with ranch or blue cheese dressing, add chili, then top with mozzarella and shredded buffalo chicken. This combination is packed with flavor and won’t lose the crust’s integrity.

The popularity of chili-based pizzas has been climbing on social media too. Many food enthusiasts are sharing their creative takes, making this a trend worth trying at home.

In short, using canned chili can transform your pizza making experience. It’s an easy way to mix up flavors while still keeping it simple. So, why not give it a shot? You might just discover a new favorite!

For more pizza inspiration, check out The Takeout.

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