Crispy & Cheesy Hot Honey Pepperoni Pizza Hashbrowns

If you love crispy hashbrowns and cheesy pepperoni pizza, you are going to be obsessed with these Hot Honey Pepperoni Pizza Hashbrowns. This easy oven-baked recipe turns simple frozen hashbrowns into a crispy pizza-inspired snack topped with melty mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and a drizzle of sweet and spicy hot honey. Perfect for appetizers, game day, after-school snacks, or a quick lunch, these pizza hashbrowns are fun to make and even more fun to eat.

Why You’ll Love Hot Honey Pepperoni Pizza Hashbrowns

• These pizza hashbrowns are incredibly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The golden hashbrowns create the perfect sturdy base for all your favorite pizza toppings. Every bite has that satisfying crunch followed by gooey melted cheese. It’s comfort food with a fun twist.

• The combination of pepperoni and hot honey is absolutely irresistible. The savory, slightly crispy pepperoni pairs perfectly with the sweet heat from the honey and chili flakes. That sweet and spicy drizzle takes the flavor to the next level. It tastes gourmet but is so simple to make.

• This recipe is super easy and beginner-friendly. You start with frozen hashbrowns, so there’s no peeling or shredding potatoes. The toppings are simple and familiar. Anyone can make this with great results.

• It’s ready in about 25 minutes from start to finish. That makes it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests. You don’t need complicated steps or special techniques. Just bake, top, and drizzle.

• These are perfect for so many occasions. Serve them as an appetizer for parties or game day. Enjoy them as a quick lunch or after-school snack. They’re fun, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients For Hot Honey Pepperoni Pizza Hashbrowns

• Frozen hashbrowns – These are the crispy potato base that replaces traditional pizza dough. They bake up golden and sturdy, making them perfect for holding all the toppings. Using frozen hashbrowns keeps this recipe quick and easy.

• Shredded mozzarella cheese – This melts beautifully over the hashbrowns and gives you that classic stretchy pizza cheese texture. Mozzarella has a mild flavor that pairs perfectly with pepperoni and sauce. It creates that irresistible cheesy layer.

• Pizza sauce – Adds rich tomato flavor and classic pizza taste. It brings moisture and ties all the toppings together. Just a spoonful on each hashbrown is enough.

• Pepperoni – Savory, slightly spicy, and delicious when baked until lightly crisp. It adds bold flavor and that classic pizza feel. You can adjust the amount depending on how meaty you like your pizza hashbrowns.

• Dried oregano – A simple seasoning that gives the tops that authentic pizzeria flavor. Just a small sprinkle makes a big difference. It adds aroma and depth.

• Honey – The sweet element that balances the salty pepperoni. When drizzled on top, it creates an amazing sweet and savory contrast. It makes this recipe stand out from regular pizza.

• Red chili flakes – Mixed with honey to create that sweet heat. You can control the spice level by adding more or less. It gives the hot honey its signature kick.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Hot Honey Pepperoni Pizza Hashbrowns

• Baking sheet – This is where the hashbrowns bake and crisp up. Make sure it’s large enough to hold all three hashbrowns in a single layer. Spacing helps them cook evenly.

• Parchment paper – Optional, but very helpful for easy cleanup. It prevents the cheese from sticking to the pan if it melts over the edges. It also makes transferring the hashbrowns easier.

• Spoon – Used to spread the pizza sauce evenly over each hashbrown. It helps control the amount so they don’t get soggy. A regular tablespoon works perfectly.

• Measuring cups – Needed to measure the shredded mozzarella and pizza sauce accurately. This keeps the cheese-to-sauce ratio just right. Proper measuring helps the recipe turn out consistently every time.

• Measuring spoons – Used for the oregano and red chili flakes. Small amounts of seasoning make a big flavor difference. Measuring ensures the balance of flavors is perfect.

• Small bowl – Used to mix the honey and chili flakes together. This helps evenly distribute the spice into the honey. It makes drizzling much easier.

How To Make Hot Honey Pepperoni Pizza Hashbrowns

• Heat your oven to 400°F and place the frozen hashbrowns on a lined baking sheet so they can start crisping up.

• Bake them until they begin turning golden on the outside before adding any toppings.

• Spoon pizza sauce over each hashbrown, spreading it gently to cover the surface.

• Add a generous layer of shredded mozzarella, then place pepperoni slices on top and sprinkle with oregano.

• Return them to the oven and bake until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly and the edges look crispy.

• Stir honey with red chili flakes and drizzle the sweet and spicy mixture over the hot hashbrowns just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these hot honey pepperoni pizza hashbrowns as a fun appetizer for game day or parties. Arrange them on a platter and drizzle a little extra hot honey right before serving for a glossy finish. Sprinkle a touch of fresh oregano on top for extra color. They disappear fast, so you might want to make a double batch.

• Pair them with a fresh garden salad for an easy lunch or light dinner. The fresh crisp lettuce balances the rich cheese and pepperoni perfectly. A light vinaigrette works especially well. It turns this snack into a complete meal.

• Serve alongside a bowl of warm cherry tomato pasta sauce for dipping. Extra sauce adds even more pizza flavor. This is great if you love your pizza extra saucy. Kids especially enjoy dipping.

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• Add them to a snack board with cucumber spears, olives, and extra cheese cubes. They make a fun and unique addition to a pizza-themed platter. The sweet and spicy drizzle stands out among classic snacks. Perfect for casual gatherings.

• Enjoy them fresh out of the oven with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top. The extra cheesy layer adds even more flavor. Serve immediately while the cheese is melty and stretchy. They taste best hot and crispy.

Tips For Success

• Bake the hashbrowns first before adding any toppings. This step is very important because it helps them crisp up and prevents them from becoming soggy once the sauce is added. If you skip this step, the base can turn soft in the center. Letting them get slightly golden first creates a sturdy pizza “crust.”

• Don’t overload the sauce. It might be tempting to add extra pizza sauce, but too much can make the hashbrowns soft. A thin, even layer is all you need for great flavor. Spreading it gently with the back of a spoon works perfectly.

• Use shredded mozzarella for best melting. Pre-shredded mozzarella is convenient and melts nicely. Make sure to spread it evenly so every bite has cheesy goodness. If the cheese goes too close to the edges, it may crisp up on the pan — which can actually be delicious.

• Watch the second bake carefully. Once the toppings are on, the hashbrowns don’t need very long in the oven. You’re looking for melted, bubbly cheese and slightly crisp pepperoni. Overbaking can make the bottoms too dark.

• Mix the hot honey well. Stir the chili flakes thoroughly into the honey so the heat is evenly distributed. If you prefer milder heat, start with less chili flakes and taste before drizzling. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out.

• Drizzle the hot honey right before serving. Adding it too early can cause it to absorb into the cheese. A fresh drizzle on hot, just-baked hashbrowns gives the best sweet and spicy contrast. It also makes them look extra appetizing.

• Serve immediately for best texture. These taste best when hot and crispy straight from the oven. As they cool, they will soften slightly. If you want that signature crunch, enjoy them fresh.

Variations And Substitutions

• Try different cheeses. While mozzarella gives you that classic pizza stretch, you can mix in cheddar for a sharper flavor. Monterey Jack melts beautifully and adds extra creaminess. A sprinkle of Parmesan on top after baking adds a salty finish.

• Change up the protein. If you don’t have pepperoni, you can use cooked sausage crumbles. Cooked bacon pieces would add a smoky flavor. You could even keep them vegetarian by skipping the meat and adding sliced olives or diced bell peppers instead.

• Make it extra veggie-packed. Add finely chopped mushrooms, onions, or green peppers on top of the sauce before adding the cheese. Just make sure the pieces are small so they cook through quickly. Keep the toppings light so the hashbrowns stay crispy.

• Adjust the spice level. If you love heat, increase the amount of red chili flakes in the honey. You could also add a pinch directly on top of the cheese before baking. If you prefer it mild, reduce or skip the chili flakes and simply drizzle plain honey.

• Try a different sauce. Instead of classic pizza sauce, you could use marinara. A garlic butter base would create a white pizza version. Even a thin layer of pesto would give it a fresh, herby twist.

• Make it gluten-free friendly. Most frozen hashbrowns are naturally gluten-free, but always check the packaging to be sure. The rest of the ingredients are typically gluten-free as well. This makes it an easy option for those avoiding gluten.

• Turn it into mini pizzas for kids. Cut larger hashbrowns into smaller pieces after baking and let kids add their own toppings. It becomes a fun, interactive meal. Everyone can customize their own.

Storage and Reheating

• Store any leftover pizza hashbrowns in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to prevent excess moisture from making them soft.

• For best results, reheat them in the oven at 375°F for about 5–8 minutes. This helps bring back the crispy texture on the outside while melting the cheese again. Avoid stacking them so they heat evenly.

• You can also reheat them in an air fryer at 375°F for 3–5 minutes. This is a great option to quickly restore crispiness. No need to preheat the air fryer.

• Microwaving is possible, but the hashbrowns will be softer instead of crispy. If using the microwave, heat in short 20–30 second intervals until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh hashbrowns instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh hashbrowns if you prefer. Just make sure they are shaped into firm patties so they hold together well during baking. Frozen hashbrowns are convenient because they are already formed and ready to cook, which makes this recipe faster and easier. If using fresh shredded potatoes, squeeze out as much moisture as possible before forming them into patties. Removing excess moisture helps them crisp up properly in the oven.

How do I make the hashbrowns extra crispy?

The key to extra crispy hashbrowns is baking them first before adding any toppings. This allows the outside to become golden and firm. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer with space between them so hot air can circulate. You can also bake them a few extra minutes before adding sauce if you prefer a crunchier texture. Serving them immediately after baking also helps maintain that crispiness.

Can I make these in the air fryer?

Yes, you can cook the hashbrowns in the air fryer instead of the oven. Cook the plain hashbrowns first until crispy, then add the sauce, cheese, and pepperoni. Return them to the air fryer just long enough to melt the cheese. There is no need to preheat the air fryer. Keep an eye on them because air fryers cook quickly.

Is the hot honey very spicy?

The spice level depends on how many red chili flakes you add to the honey. Using the amount listed in the recipe creates a mild sweet heat that most people enjoy. If you are sensitive to spice, reduce the chili flakes or drizzle plain honey instead. If you love spicy food, you can increase the chili flakes slightly. Always mix and taste the honey before drizzling so you can adjust to your preference.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

These pizza hashbrowns taste best fresh and hot from the oven. However, you can bake the hashbrowns ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, add the toppings and bake until the cheese is melted. This helps save time if you are preparing for a party or gathering. Keep in mind that fully assembled leftovers will soften slightly when stored.

What other toppings can I add?

You can customize these just like a regular pizza. Try adding cooked sausage, diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives. Keep the toppings light so the hashbrowns stay crispy and don’t become weighed down. Make sure any vegetables are chopped small so they cook quickly. The sweet and spicy honey drizzle pairs well with many savory toppings.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, it is very easy to make this vegetarian. Simply skip the pepperoni and add your favorite vegetables instead. Mushrooms, olives, and bell peppers are great options. You could also add extra cheese for a simple cheese pizza version. The hot honey still adds a delicious sweet and spicy finish.

Other Easy Pepperoni Recipes

Pepperoni Cream Cheese Appetizer Bites – Crispy, savory pepperoni filled with creamy, tangy cheese for an easy low-carb appetizer that’s ready in minutes.

Pepperoni Chips – Thin slices of pepperoni baked or air fried until perfectly crispy for a crunchy, high-protein snack.

Italian Antipasto Pasta Salad – A fresh and flavorful pasta salad loaded with Italian meats, cheese, olives, and a zesty homemade dressing.

Other Easy Hashbrown Recipes

Cheesy Ham Potato Casserole with Hash Browns – A comforting baked casserole made with tender hash browns, savory ham, and plenty of melted cheese.

Homemade Hash Browns from Scratch – Golden, crispy shredded potatoes made from fresh potatoes for the ultimate classic breakfast side.

Crispy Mini Hash Browns – Bite-sized hash brown rounds cooked until golden and crunchy on the outside and soft inside.

Stuffed Hash Brown Patties – Crispy hash brown patties filled with savory ingredients for a hearty and satisfying breakfast option.

More Appetizer Recipes

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• Hearts of Palm Party Dip
• Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Pastry Pups