We’ve always been fans of the innovative twists at California Pizza Kitchen, and their Tostada Pizza stands out as a fun fusion of Italian and Mexican vibes. This hearty dish layers a crispy crust with fresh toppings like black beans, cheese, and zesty salsa, capturing the essence of a classic tostada in pizza form.
It’s no wonder this recipe has become a go-to for home cooks seeking bold flavors without the restaurant price tag. We’ll guide you through recreating it easily, so you can enjoy that signature CPK magic right in your kitchen.
Ingredients
We gather high-quality ingredients to craft our homemade version of the California Pizza Kitchen Tostada Pizza, blending bold Mexican spices with classic Italian pizza elements for an irresistible fusion. Let’s break down the components that make this dish a crowd-pleaser.
Dough Ingredients
To start our Tostada Pizza base, we use these fresh ingredients in the order they’re typically combined for a crispy, golden crust:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Sifted for even texture, as the foundation of our dough.
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast: Proofed in warm water to ensure a light, airy rise.
- 1 cup warm water (around 110°F): Measured precisely to activate the yeast without overheating.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Added for moisture and a subtle flavor that enhances the crust’s golden finish.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Incorporated to balance flavors and strengthen the dough structure.
Toppings Ingredients
Once the dough is ready, we layer on these Tostada Pizza toppings in the sequence they go onto the pizza for optimal melding of flavors and textures:
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans: Drained and rinsed, then mashed slightly for a hearty, creamy spread.
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Freshly grated for maximum melt and a gooey, spicy kick.
- 1 cup fresh salsa: Chopped tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños mixed together for a zesty, vibrant topping.
- 1 cup grilled chicken breast: Sliced into thin strips, cooked with a pinch of cumin for added protein and authentic Mexican flair.
- ½ cup red onion: Thinly sliced for a crisp, pungent contrast that brightens each bite.
- 1 cup shredded lettuce: Added post-bake for a fresh, crunchy element that evokes the traditional tostada.
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup tomato sauce: Used as the primary base for a rich, hearty foundation.
- 2 tablespoons adobo sauce: From chipotle peppers, whisked in for a smoky, spicy depth.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Blended for an aromatic boost that enhances the sauce’s overall savoriness.
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin: Added for an earthy, warm note that complements the Mexican influences.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoned at the end to fine-tune the sauce’s bold flavors.
Required Tools and Equipment
To seamlessly transform our high-quality ingredients into a delicious California Pizza Kitchen-style Tostada Pizza, we need the right tools and equipment. These essentials ensure precise preparation, even baking, and effortless assembly, allowing us to achieve that perfect crispy crust and vibrant toppings at home.
Here’s a curated list of the key tools we recommend, organized by their primary function:
- Mixing Bowl (Large): Essential for combining dough ingredients like flour, yeast, and water; opt for a sturdy, non-slip bowl to handle kneading without spills.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for our dough and sauce—use a set that includes both dry and liquid cups for ingredients such as olive oil and salt.
- Rolling Pin: Helps us roll out the dough evenly to create a thin, crispy base; a wooden or silicone version works best for this Tostada Pizza’s texture.
- Baking Sheet or Pizza Stone: The cornerstone for achieving a golden, professional crust—preheat your pizza stone in the oven for optimal results, as it mimics the high-heat environment of a pizza oven.
- Oven with Timer: A standard kitchen oven is key for baking at the right temperature (around 475°F); the built-in timer keeps track of cooking times to prevent over-browning.
- Knife and Cutting Board: Sharp knife for slicing toppings like red onion and grilled chicken, paired with a stable cutting board to maintain safety and efficiency.
- Grater: Ideal for shredding cheese such as Monterey Jack; this tool ensures even melting and enhances the dish’s gooey, flavorful profile.
- Spatula or Pizza Peel: Used for transferring the assembled pizza in and out of the oven; a heat-resistant spatula simplifies handling without damaging the crust.
With these tools in hand, we’re fully equipped to move forward and dive into the preparation steps, making our homemade Tostada Pizza as authentic and enjoyable as the original.
Instructions
We guide you through creating our homemade California Pizza Kitchen Tostada Pizza with simple, step-by-step directions that ensure bold flavors and a perfect crispy crust every time.
Prepare the Dough
To start, gather the dough ingredients we mentioned earlier and follow these precise steps for a golden, chewy base that captures the essence of California Pizza Kitchen Tostada Pizza.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast with 1 cup warm water (around 110°F) and stir until the yeast dissolves, allowing it to activate for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- Add 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and 2 tablespoons olive oil to the bowl, then mix with a spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms, evoking the fresh, earthy aroma that promises a delightful homemade crust.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic, using a rolling pin to shape it into a 12-inch circle, ensuring it’s even for that signature crispy texture.
Make the Sauce
We whip up a zesty sauce that infuses our Tostada Pizza with Mexican-inspired flair, blending spices for a flavorful base that ties together the Italian and Mexican elements seamlessly.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup tomato sauce, 2 tablespoons adobo sauce, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon salt, stirring constantly to blend the ingredients into a smooth, aromatic mixture.
- Simmer the sauce for 5 minutes until it thickens slightly and releases a spicy, tangy scent that hints at the bold taste of California Pizza Kitchen Tostada Pizza, then remove from heat and set aside for assembly.
Cook the Toppings
With the sauce ready, we prepare the vibrant toppings to add layers of texture and flavor, ensuring each bite of our Tostada Pizza delivers a fresh, satisfying crunch and zest.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook 1 cup grilled chicken (sliced into bite-sized pieces) with 1/2 cup diced red onion for 4-5 minutes until the chicken is heated through and the onion softens, releasing a savory aroma that enhances the dish’s appeal.
- In a separate bowl, rinse and drain 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, then heat them in the same skillet for 2-3 minutes, mashing lightly for a creamy consistency that contrasts perfectly with the crisp elements.
- Shred 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese using a grater and prepare 1 cup fresh salsa and 1 cup shredded lettuce, keeping them ready to layer for the fresh, vibrant flavors that make this pizza stand out.
Assemble the Pizza
It’s time to build our Tostada Pizza, layering the ingredients on the dough for a visually appealing and tasty masterpiece that combines crispy textures with bold, zesty tastes.
- Preheat your oven to 475°F and place the rolled dough on a baking sheet or pizza stone, then spread the prepared sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border for the crust.
- Top with the cooked chicken and black beans, followed by 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, 1/2 cup diced red onion, and dollops of 1 cup fresh salsa, arranging them to create a colorful, textured surface that promises a mouthwatering blend of flavors.
- Finish by sprinkling 1 cup shredded lettuce on top just before baking, ensuring it adds a crisp, refreshing contrast without wilting.
Bake the Pizza
Finally, we bake our assembled Tostada Pizza to achieve a golden, bubbly finish that locks in the flavors and delivers the authentic California Pizza Kitchen experience right in your kitchen.
- Slide the pizza into the preheated 475°F oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, rotating halfway through for even cooking, until the crust is golden and crispy with melted cheese that creates an irresistible, gooey texture.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 2-3 minutes to allow the toppings to set, enhancing the spicy, fresh flavors before slicing into 8 even pieces for serving.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To streamline our homemade California Pizza Kitchen Tostada Pizza recipe, we can prepare key components in advance without compromising flavor or texture. This approach saves time and ensures fresh, vibrant flavors when we’re ready to assemble and bake. Below, we outline the steps for making ahead the dough, sauce, and toppings, focusing on safe storage and reheating methods.
Preparing the Dough Ahead
We recommend making the dough up to 24 hours in advance for a more developed flavor and easier handling. Here’s how:
- Activate and knead the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast with 1 cup warm water (around 110°F). Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy, then add 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and 1 teaspoon salt. Knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First rise and storage: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size. Once risen, punch it down, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. For longer storage, freeze the dough for up to 1 month—thaw in the refrigerator overnight before use.
- Bringing it to room temperature: When ready to use, remove from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to make rolling easier.
Preparing the Sauce Ahead
Our zesty sauce, blending tomato sauce with adobo and spices, can be made 2-3 days in advance and stored, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
- Mix and cook the sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup tomato sauce, 2 tablespoons adobo sauce, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and aromatic.
- Cool and store: Let the sauce cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before spreading on the pizza for that bold, tangy kick.
- Key tip: If freezing, portion into smaller containers for quick thawing, ensuring our Tostada Pizza assembly stays efficient.
Preparing the Toppings Ahead
Toppings like grilled chicken, black beans, and fresh veggies can be prepped 1-2 days ahead to maintain crunch and freshness, making assembly a breeze.
- Grill and store the chicken: Season 1 pound boneless chicken breast with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cumin, then grill for 6-8 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let it cool, shred into pieces, and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For best results, reheat briefly in a skillet to restore that smoky, juicy texture.
- Prepare beans and veggies: Rinse and drain a 15-ounce can of black beans, then mix with 1/2 teaspoon cumin and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. For veggies, thinly slice 1 red onion and shred 2 cups lettuce; keep them separate in sealed bags in the fridge to preserve crispness—use within 24 hours for optimal fresh, vibrant flavors.
- Assembly reminder: When making ahead, avoid layering wet ingredients like salsa until just before baking to prevent sogginess. This keeps our California Pizza Kitchen-inspired pizza light and crispy.
By following these make-ahead steps, we ensure our Tostada Pizza remains an effortless yet authentic delight, packed with bold Italian and Mexican influences.
Conclusion
We’ve loved exploring the Tostada Pizza’s bold fusion of flavors, and it’s a hit in our kitchens. This homemade version lets you capture California Pizza Kitchen’s magic without leaving home.
Experiment with toppings to make it your own, and you’ll discover how simple ingredients create an unforgettable meal. We’re confident you’ll enjoy every crispy bite as much as we do.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is California Pizza Kitchen’s Tostada Pizza?
California Pizza Kitchen’s Tostada Pizza is a creative fusion of Italian and Mexican flavors, featuring a crispy crust topped with black beans, cheese, salsa, grilled chicken, and fresh veggies. It’s like a tostada in pizza form, offering bold, affordable tastes that home cooks love recreating.
What ingredients are needed for the Tostada Pizza dough?
For the dough, you’ll need all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, warm water, olive oil, and salt. These simple, high-quality ingredients combine to create a crispy, golden crust that’s easy to make at home.
What toppings are used in the Tostada Pizza recipe?
The toppings include black beans, Monterey Jack cheese, fresh salsa, grilled chicken, red onion, and shredded lettuce. A zesty sauce made from tomato sauce, adobo sauce, garlic powder, cumin, and seasonings ties it all together for vibrant flavors.
What tools and equipment are required to make Tostada Pizza?
You’ll need a large mixing bowl for dough, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a rolling pin for shaping, a baking sheet or pizza stone for baking, a knife and cutting board for prep, and a grater for cheese. These basics ensure a smooth homemade process.
How can I prepare Tostada Pizza in advance?
Make the dough up to 24 hours ahead by activating yeast, letting it rise, and storing in the fridge. Prepare the sauce 2-3 days in advance and store it cooled. Prep toppings like chicken and beans 1-2 days ahead, but add wet ingredients just before baking to keep it crispy.