Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like this recipe because it transforms an everyday pizza into something creative without much extra effort. The spiderweb design is easy to create but looks impressive, and I enjoy how customizable it is—I can use olives, string cheese, or even veggie strips to form the web. It’s also quick to make, which means I can serve a themed dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)
1 pound pizza dough
1 cup pizza sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup black olives, sliced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
2 tbsp olive oil
Directions
Step 1: Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a 12-inch circle. Place on a pizza pan or baking sheet.
Step 2: Brush the edges with olive oil. Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a border for the crust.
Step 3: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
Step 4: Create the spiderweb design by arranging sliced black olives or pulling mozzarella into thin strips and laying them in a web pattern.
Step 5: Sprinkle Parmesan and Italian seasoning over the top.
Step 6: Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
Step 7: Let cool slightly, then slice into 8 pieces and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes 8 slices.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
Sometimes I swap the sauce for pesto or barbecue sauce for a different flavor. I’ve also added pepperoni cut into fun shapes to make the design more playful. For a veggie version, I layer bell peppers or mushrooms under the cheese. If I want a unique twist, I use dyed mozzarella (with food coloring) for the web.
Storage/Reheating
I keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I place slices in a 350°F oven for about 8 minutes, or warm them in a skillet to keep the crust crisp. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months—just reheat directly from frozen until hot.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Yes, I often use store-bought dough to save time.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, I assemble the pizza a few hours early and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
What can I use instead of black olives for the web?
I sometimes use strips of mozzarella cheese or even thin bell pepper slices.
Can I make this gluten free?
Yes, I use a gluten-free pizza crust for the base.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, provolone or Monterey Jack also melt well and taste great.
How do I keep the crust crispy?
I bake the pizza on a preheated pizza stone or baking sheet.
Can I add extra toppings under the cheese?
Yes, I often add mushrooms, peppers, or sausage before sprinkling the cheese.
How do I make the pizza look more fun?
I cut black olives into spider shapes and place them on the web design.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, I make two pizzas if serving a larger crowd.
Can kids help make this?
Yes, I love letting kids arrange the “spiderweb” design—it’s a fun way to get them involved.
Conclusion
This spiderweb pizza is a simple, tasty, and creative dish that always brings smiles to the table. I love how easy it is to prepare, yet it makes any gathering feel more special. With its cheesy goodness and playful design, it’s the perfect party centerpiece or family dinner idea.
