Will IT Crust: Watermelon Pizza?!?
WILL IT CRUST: WATERMELON PIZZA?!? is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 320 calories per serving. Recipe by Dough Joe on YouTube.
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 5 min | Total: 25 min
Cost: $14.21 total, $3.55 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 medium Watermelon (cut into 1‑inch thick round slices, remove seeds)
- 6 slices Bacon (pre‑cooked until crisp, then chopped)
- 1/2 cup Strawberries (sliced thinly; can substitute any bite‑size fruit)
- 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese (shredded; any meltable cheese works)
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (lightly brushed on watermelon to help cheese adhere)
- 1 pinch Salt (optional, to enhance flavor)
Instructions
Prepare the Watermelon Base
Place the watermelon on a cutting board, slice off the rind, then cut a 1‑inch thick round slice about 8‑10 inches in diameter. Pat the surface dry with paper towels.
Time: PT5M
Pre‑Cook the Bacon
Lay bacon slices on a parchment‑lined baking sheet and bake at 425°F for 8‑10 minutes until crisp. Remove, let cool, then crumble.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 425°F
Brush and Season
Lightly brush the watermelon slice with olive oil and sprinkle a pinch of salt over the surface.
Time: PT1M
Add Toppings
Evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella over the watermelon, then scatter the crumbled bacon and sliced strawberries (or chosen fruit) on top.
Time: PT3M
Melt the Cheese
Place the assembled watermelon pizza back on the baking sheet and bake at 425°F for 3‑5 minutes, just until the cheese bubbles and lightly browns.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 425°F
Serve
Remove from oven, let cool for 1‑2 minutes, then slice into wedges and serve immediately.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 320
- Protein
- 12g
- Carbohydrates
- 18g
- Fat
- 22g
- Fiber
- 2g
Dietary info: Gluten‑Free (if using gluten‑free bacon), Low‑Carb, Vegetarian‑Friendly only if bacon omitted
Allergens: Dairy, Pork
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Watermelon: Cantaloupe (for a sweeter crust)
- Instead of Bacon: Turkey bacon, prosciutto
- Instead of Strawberries: Blueberries, kiwi slices, pineapple chunks
- Instead of Mozzarella Cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Vegan shredded cheese
- Instead of Olive Oil: Avocado oil, vegetable oil
- Instead of Salt: Sea salt, kosher salt
Equipment Needed
- Cutting Board
- Sharp Chef Knife
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper (optional)
- Oven
- Cheese Grater
- Tongs (optional)
- Paper Towels (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Ensuring the watermelon slice is thick enough to hold toppings without becoming soggy
- Patting the watermelon dry before adding oil and cheese
- Cooking bacon until crisp to avoid excess grease
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a watermelon that’s firm and not over‑ripe for a sturdier crust
- For extra flavor, drizzle a tiny amount of balsamic reduction over the finished pizza
- Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or mint for brightness
Troubleshooting
Watermelon becomes soggy after baking
Pat the slice thoroughly before adding oil and cheese; bake only until cheese melts (no longer than 5 minutes).
Cheese does not melt or brown
Increase oven temperature to 450°F for an extra minute, or cover loosely with foil to trap heat.
Bacon is too greasy
Place cooked bacon on paper towels to absorb excess fat before crumbling.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 24 hours; the crust may become softer.
Freezer: Not recommended; watermelon texture degrades when frozen.
Room temperature: Best eaten immediately; can sit out for up to 30 minutes.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Pre‑cook and crumble bacon ahead of time
- Shred cheese and store in a sealed bag
- Pat the watermelon slice dry and keep refrigerated until ready to assemble
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of watermelon pizza in American cuisine?
Watermelon pizza is a modern, novelty dish that emerged from the trend of using fruit as a low‑carb alternative to traditional dough. It reflects a playful, health‑conscious twist on classic pizza, popular at summer barbecues and Instagram food culture.
How does watermelon pizza fit into the broader American snack tradition?
It aligns with the American love for creative, handheld snacks that combine sweet and savory flavors, similar to fruit‑topped nachos or bacon‑wrapped dates, and showcases the country’s experimental approach to comfort food.
What occasions or celebrations is watermelon pizza traditionally associated with in the United States?
While not tied to a specific holiday, watermelon pizza is a hit at summer gatherings, pool parties, Fourth of July picnics, and health‑focused events where a refreshing yet indulgent snack is desired.
What are authentic traditional ingredients for watermelon pizza versus acceptable substitutes?
The core ingredient is a thick slice of fresh watermelon. Traditional toppings include cheese (often mozzarella), cured meats like bacon, and fresh fruit. Substitutes can be any meltable cheese, turkey bacon, or alternative fruits such as blueberries or kiwi.
What other American dishes pair well with watermelon pizza?
Serve it alongside grilled chicken skewers, a crisp garden salad, or a chilled cucumber‑mint water. A light sparkling lemonade or a cold craft beer also complements the sweet‑savory profile.
What makes watermelon pizza special or unique in American fusion cuisine?
It merges the refreshing quality of watermelon with the comforting, cheesy, and salty elements of pizza, creating a contrast of temperatures and textures that is both surprising and satisfying.
How has watermelon pizza evolved over time in the United States?
Initially a novelty at food festivals, it has spread through social media, inspiring variations with different cheeses, herbs, and even vegan toppings, reflecting the growing interest in low‑carb and fruit‑based dishes.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making watermelon pizza at home?
Common errors include using a slice that’s too thin (causing it to break), not drying the watermelon (leading to a soggy crust), and over‑baking, which can turn the fruit mushy. Follow the drying step and keep baking time short.
Why does this watermelon pizza recipe bake the cheese instead of just melting it in a microwave?
Baking at high heat quickly browns the cheese, adds a slight caramelization, and creates a pleasant texture contrast with the cool watermelon, whereas a microwave would melt the cheese without that desirable crusty finish.
What does the YouTube channel Dough Joe specialize in?
The YouTube channel Dough Joe focuses on experimental baking and creative twists on classic dishes, often testing unconventional ingredients as bases for pizza, bread, and other staple foods.
How does the YouTube channel Dough Joe's approach to novelty pizza differ from other cooking channels?
Dough Joe emphasizes hands‑on experimentation, using data‑driven taste tests and viewer interaction to decide which unconventional crusts (like watermelon, jello, or cauliflower) are viable, whereas many channels stick to traditional dough recipes.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
