The Pioneer Woman Cooks (37 page)

2. Place a layer of sliced mozzarella over the pesto.

3. Place sliced Roma tomatoes on top of the cheese.

4. Top with more mozzarella, and sprinkle generously with Parmesan cheese.

Bake for 8 to 11 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the crust is golden brown.

OTHER PIZZA TOPPING IDEASCaramelized onionsSliced sautéed mushroomsShredded chicken with BBQ sauceRoasted garlicGrilled zucchiniGrilled red onions

MY PESKY BROTHER-IN-LAW, TIM

He’s a pest. He throws things at me. He teases the kids incessantly. But I guess we like him okay.

He’s a rancher. And he’s good at what he does.

He’s rugged and outdoorsy. He once gave me a .22 handgun for Christmas. To this day, it’s the nicest thing he’s ever done for me.

But he also has his moments. He’s a gentleman. And he’s kind. And he loves the animals he cares for.

He also has a great sense of humor. Unless he hasn’t eaten breakfast—then he’s pretty darn cranky. Seriously—if Tim hasn’t eaten, you need to steer clear.

But all in all, he’s pretty easy to take. As far as brothers-in-law go, I got pretty lucky.

Unless he hasn’t eaten. But I guess I’ve already said that.

COWBOY CALZONE

Makes 8 calzone

Cowboys love calzone because they’re easy to grab and eat on their way out the door. I created this cowboy-friendly twist on the original.

½ pound hot breakfast sausage1 pound ground beef½ onion, finely dicedOne 10-ounce can tomatoes and chilies (I use Rotel brand)8 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese½ cup grated mozzarella cheese½ cup grated Monterey Jack cheese1 egg, beatenSalt and black pepper1 recipe Pizza Crust (Dinner)Olive oil for brushing

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F.

In a large skillet, combine the sausage and hamburger with the onion.

2. Brown over medium heat. Drain the excess grease.

3. Pour in the tomatoes and chilies.

4. Stir to combine, and cook for 2 minutes.

Remove from the heat and allow to cool slightly.

5. In a bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and egg. Add a dash of salt and pepper.

6. Add the cooled meat mixture to the cheese mixture and stir gently to combine.

7. Divide the pizza dough into 8 equal-size balls. With a rolling pin on a floured surface, roll each ball into a 6-inch circle.

8. Place one-eighth of the meat/cheese mixture in the middle of each circle.