If you think you’ve tried every type of pizza out there, think again. The Cuban Pizza—also known as pizza Cubana—is one of Cuba’s best-kept culinary secrets. Unlike the thin, crispy crusts of Italy or the greasy slices of New York, this Caribbean twist on a classic is all about thick, chewy dough, generous layers of gooey cheese, and a touch of sweetness that makes it uniquely addictive.
Born on the bustling streets of Havana, the authentic Cuban pizza has long been a beloved staple for locals craving something quick, filling, and full of flavor. Traditionally baked in makeshift ovens or on hotplates, it’s commonly folded in half and eaten on the go—just like a cheesy Cuban sandwich in pizza form.
In this blog post, we’ll take you step-by-step through how to recreate an authentic Cuban pizza right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary adventures, this easy recipe brings bold Cuban flavors to your table with ingredients you likely already have on hand. Let’s dive into the heart of Cuban cuisine and discover why this pizza is quickly gaining fans around the world.
What Is The Cuban Pizza?
The Cuban Pizza, or “Pizza Cubana”, is a delicious and lesser-known take on the classic Italian dish, uniquely shaped by Cuba’s vibrant culture and resourceful culinary traditions. This pizza stands out with its thick, soft crust, generous layers of melty cheese, and bold, savory toppings—making it one of the most beloved comfort foods on the island.
A Slice of authentic Cuban pizza Street Food Culture
Unlike the thin, crispy pizzas popular in Italy or the U.S., the Cuban pizza is distinctly thick and chewy, with a doughy texture that’s satisfyingly filling. It’s a staple of Cuban street food, often sold through windows of small pizzerias or makeshift kiosks known as ventanitas. Locals typically fold it in half and eat it like a sandwich—warm, gooey, and packed with flavor.
This pizza reflects Cuba’s history of limited ingredients and creative cooking, relying on what’s readily available. That’s why you’ll often find it made with a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and gouda, and topped with affordable yet flavorful ingredients such as chorizo, onions, peppers, and sometimes even ground pork or ham.
What Makes Authentic Cuban pizza Unique?
Several elements set Cuban pizza apart from other styles:
- Thick and soft crust: The base is more like pan pizza, soft on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside, often cooked in cast iron or a stovetop pan.
- Hearty cheese blend: A mix of mozzarella and gouda cheese is common, creating a stretchy, rich melt with a slight smoky sweetness.
- Bold toppings: Onions, green bell peppers, spicy pork sausage (or chorizo), and sometimes even sweet touches like pineapple or corn.
- Homemade tomato sauce: Simple yet flavorful, usually made with garlic, oregano, and crushed tomatoes.
This is not a minimalist pizza—it’s indulgent, flavorful, and messy in the best way.
A Taste of Home for Many Cubans
For Cubans living abroad, The Cuban Pizza is more than just food—it’s a nostalgic taste of home. It reminds them of late-night street snacks, family gatherings, and the creative spirit that defines Cuban cuisine. Whether eaten on a bustling Havana street corner or in a quiet home kitchen, this pizza brings people together with its comforting flavor and warm, melty texture.
The Cuban Pizza at Home – Authentic & Easy!
Ingrédients
For the Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 ¼ teaspoons 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup warm water 110°F / 45°C
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded gouda cheese
- ½ cup diced ham or cooked chorizo optional
- ¼ cup sliced green olives optional
- ¼ cup sliced onions optional
- Oregano or chili flakes for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
- In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Make the Sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine tomato sauce, olive oil, sugar, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 5–7 minutes. Set aside to cool.
Assemble the Pizza:
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). If using a pizza stone, place it inside to preheat.
- Divide dough into 2–3 portions. Roll into circles about ½ inch thick.
- Spread tomato sauce over the base, then sprinkle mozzarella and gouda evenly.
- Add your desired toppings (ham, chorizo, olives, onions, etc.).
Bake:
- Place the pizzas on a baking tray or preheated pizza stone.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish with oregano or chili flakes, slice, and serve hot.
Serving & Storing Your Homemade Cuban Pizza
Once your Cuban pizza is golden brown, bubbling with cheese, and bursting with those irresistible Cuban flavors, it’s time to serve it up and enjoy. But to get the most out of your pizza experience—even beyond dinnertime—it’s helpful to know how best to serve and store it. Here’s how:
1. Best Ways to Serve Cuban Pizza
Cuban pizza is all about bold flavors and a chewy, satisfying crust, so it pairs wonderfully with light and refreshing sides:
- Cuban-style Salad: Try serving your pizza with a simple lettuce, tomato, and avocado salad tossed in a citrus vinaigrette.
- Drinks: For a true Havana vibe, serve it alongside a chilled glass of Cuban soda, mojito mocktail, or a classic Cuban coffee.
- Fold & Eat: Traditionally, The Cuban Pizza is folded in half and eaten like a sandwich—especially from street vendors. Try it that way for the authentic Cuban experience!
This pizza is great for casual dinners, parties, or family movie nights. Serve it hot, straight from the oven, and don’t be shy with extra chili flakes or a drizzle of garlic oil if you’re feeling adventurous.
2. Storing Leftovers (If You Have Any!)
Let’s be honest—leftover Cuban pizza is rare because it’s that good! But if you do have extra slices, here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerator: Place cooled slices in an airtight container or wrap them in foil or plastic wrap. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Want to save some for later? Stack slices with parchment paper between them, wrap tightly in foil, and freeze. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
3. How to Reheat Cuban Pizza
To keep that crust crispy and cheese melty:
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake slices for 8–10 minutes on a baking sheet.
- Skillet: Reheat slices on a nonstick pan over medium heat with a lid on for 5–7 minutes. This method keeps the base crispy while warming the toppings.
- Avoid the Microwave: While it’s quick, it tends to make the crust rubbery instead of chewy—so skip it if you can.
With these tips, you’ll enjoy your homemade Cuban pizza at its best—whether fresh out of the oven or savored again the next day. Want to make it even more special? Try storing extra dough and sauce separately so you can whip up a fresh batch whenever the craving strikes.
you can look Homemade Hot Honey Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza