The Legendary Happy Joe’s Special Pizza: A Copycat Recipe
There’s a special place in the hearts of many Midwesterners for Happy Joe’s Pizza. Known for its distinctively delicious and often innovative flavor combinations, Happy Joe’s has built a loyal following over decades. Among its most iconic offerings is the “Happy Joe’s Special” pizza – a truly unique masterpiece featuring Canadian bacon and sauerkraut. For those who grew up savoring this culinary delight, the taste evokes a wave of nostalgia, transporting them back to cherished family gatherings and celebratory meals. If you find yourself miles away from the nearest Happy Joe’s, or simply wish to recreate that unforgettable flavor in your own kitchen, you’re in for a treat. This copycat recipe promises to deliver the authentic experience, making it easier than ever to enjoy this beloved Canadian bacon and sauerkraut pizza.
Unveiling the Happy Joe’s Phenomenon
Happy Joe’s isn’t just a pizza parlor; it’s an institution for many in the Midwest. Established in 1972 in Davenport, Iowa, it quickly became renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere, ice cream parlors, and, most importantly, its exceptional pizzas. While traditional pepperoni and sausage pizzas are certainly on the menu, Happy Joe’s truly shines with its inventive and bold flavor profiles. The “Special” pizza, with its seemingly unusual blend of Canadian bacon and sauerkraut, stands out as a testament to their culinary creativity. It challenges conventional pizza toppings, yet once tasted, it becomes an instant favorite for its harmonious balance of salty, savory, and tangy notes. This unexpected combination is precisely what makes the Happy Joe’s Special so iconic and utterly irresistible. It’s a flavor journey that you won’t find anywhere else, making it a must-try for any pizza enthusiast.
Why You Need This Copycat Happy Joe’s Special Recipe
Living thousands of miles away from your favorite Happy Joe’s location can be disheartening when a craving strikes. This copycat recipe is born out of that very desire to bridge the geographical gap and bring the authentic taste of the Midwest right into your kitchen. Beyond satisfying that yearning for nostalgia, crafting your own Happy Joe’s Special offers numerous advantages. It provides an opportunity to control the quality of your ingredients, from a homemade pizza dough to your preferred brand of Canadian bacon and mozzarella. You can adjust the sauce, cheese, and topping quantities to perfectly suit your palate, ensuring every slice is exactly how you like it. Making pizza at home is also a wonderfully rewarding experience, perfect for family fun or a cozy night in. Plus, it’s often more budget-friendly than ordering takeout, allowing you to enjoy this gourmet Canadian bacon and sauerkraut pizza without breaking the bank. Prepare to impress your family and friends with a slice of Midwestern comfort that tastes just like the original.
The Core Components of Happy Joe’s Magic
Creating the perfect copycat Happy Joe’s Special hinges on understanding and selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in replicating that signature flavor:
- Pizza Dough: The foundation of any great pizza. Whether you prefer the convenience of store-bought dough or the satisfaction of making your own from scratch, choose a dough that bakes up light and crispy on the outside, yet wonderfully chewy on the inside. My favorite homemade pizza dough recipe provides an excellent base for this special pizza. Ensure it’s proofed correctly for optimal texture.
- Olive Oil: A light brush of olive oil on the crust before adding toppings not only prevents sticking but also contributes to a golden, flavorful base, adding a subtle richness that complements the other ingredients.
- Pizza Sauce: Opt for a simple, flavorful tomato-based pizza sauce. You don’t want a sauce that’s overly sweet or spiced, as the unique toppings should be the stars of the show. A classic marinara or a plain crushed tomato sauce works beautifully. A 14 oz jar is usually sufficient for one large pizza, but adjust to your preference.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Good quality mozzarella is essential for that perfect gooey, stretchy cheese pull. Using both fresh and low-moisture shredded mozzarella can provide a delightful combination of flavor and texture. Dividing the cheese allows for layering, ensuring every bite has a perfect melt. About 8 oz (2 cups) is ideal for a generous topping.
- Canadian Bacon: This is a cornerstone ingredient. Diced Canadian bacon provides a savory, slightly smoky, and less greasy alternative to traditional ham or pepperoni. Its mild flavor pairs exceptionally well with the tang of the sauerkraut. A 6 oz package, finely diced, integrates perfectly into the pizza.
- Sauerkraut: The unexpected star! Sauerkraut adds a unique, tangy, and slightly sour note that cuts through the richness of the cheese and bacon, creating a harmonious and addictive flavor profile. It must be thoroughly drained to prevent a soggy pizza. An 8 oz can, properly prepared, is just the right amount to distribute evenly. Don’t skip this ingredient; it’s what truly defines the “Special” in Happy Joe’s Special.
10
servings
Copycat Happy Joe’s Special (Canadian Bacon & Sauerkraut Pizza)
Jamie Sherman
15 minutes
30 minutes
45 minutes
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Ingredients
-
Your favorite pizza dough,
or try my favorite pizza dough! -
Olive oil -
1
jar
pizza sauce,
14 oz. -
2
cups
Mozzarella cheese, divided,
8 oz. -
1
package
Canadian bacon, diced,
6 oz. -
1
can
sauerkraut, drained,
8 oz.
Prevent your screen from going dark
Instructions
-
Begin by preparing your chosen pizza dough. Follow your favorite recipe for homemade dough, or the package instructions for store-bought varieties. Allow it to rise if necessary, ensuring it’s at the correct consistency for stretching.
-
Preheat your oven to the temperature specified in your pizza dough recipe or on the package. Typically, this will be a high temperature (e.g., 400-450°F or 200-230°C) to ensure a crispy crust.
-
Lightly grease a pizza pan or baking sheet. Carefully stretch or pat the prepared pizza dough into the pan, forming an even crust and building a slight edge for the rim. A thin crust works best for this pizza to let the toppings shine.
-
Brush the dough lightly with olive oil. Then, evenly spread your pizza sauce over the crust, using as much or as little as you prefer. Next, sprinkle 1½ cups of mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Distribute the diced Canadian bacon evenly over the cheese, followed by the well-drained sauerkraut. Finally, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese over the top.
-
Bake the pizza in the preheated oven according to your crust’s instructions, usually for 15-25 minutes. The pizza is ready when the crust is golden brown, and the cheese is beautifully melted, bubbly, and slightly browned at the edges.
-
Carefully remove the pizza from the oven. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing to let the cheese set. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Happy Joe’s Special!
Notes
- Use this as a jumping off point to create your own restaurant favorites at home!
- For an extra crispy crust, pre-bake your pizza dough for 5-7 minutes before adding toppings.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of Canadian bacon or sauerkraut to your taste preferences.
Nutrition
Calories:
204
kcal
,
Carbohydrates:
23
g
,
Protein:
13
g
,
Fat:
7
g
,
Saturated Fat:
3
g
,
Polyunsaturated Fat:
1
g
,
Monounsaturated Fat:
2
g
,
Cholesterol:
23
mg
,
Sodium:
932
mg
,
Potassium:
241
mg
,
Fiber:
2
g
,
Sugar:
5
g
,
Vitamin A:
313
IU
,
Vitamin C:
6
mg
,
Calcium:
170
mg
,
Iron:
2
mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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Tips for a Flawless Happy Joe’s Special Pizza
Achieving that perfect Happy Joe’s flavor and texture is simple with a few key tips:
- Drain the Sauerkraut Thoroughly: This is arguably the most crucial step. Excess liquid from the sauerkraut will make your pizza soggy. Press it firmly between paper towels or use a fine-mesh sieve to remove as much moisture as possible.
- Even Topping Distribution: Ensure the Canadian bacon and sauerkraut are spread evenly across the pizza. This guarantees that every bite delivers the full, balanced flavor profile.
- Don’t Overload: While tempting to pile on the toppings, too much can lead to a dense, undercooked crust. Stick to the recommended quantities for best results.
- High Heat for Crispy Crust: Pizza bakes best at high temperatures. Ensure your oven is fully preheated to achieve a golden, crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese.
- Rest Before Slicing: Letting the pizza rest for 5-10 minutes after baking allows the cheese to set and prevents toppings from sliding off when you cut into it.
Elevate Your Pizza Experience: Serving Suggestions
The Happy Joe’s Special pizza is hearty and flavorful enough to stand alone, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory pizza. For a more substantial meal, consider a bowl of classic tomato soup or a hearty lentil soup. To complete the Midwestern experience, enjoy your Canadian bacon and sauerkraut pizza with a cold beer or a glass of crisp white wine that can cut through the richness. For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling cider or even a classic root beer complements the nostalgic feel of this unique pizza.
Storing Your Delicious Leftovers
Leftover Happy Joe’s Special pizza is just as delightful, if not more so, the next day. To store, allow any remaining slices to cool completely to room temperature. Then, place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. For reheating, the best method to retain crispness is to place slices in a preheated oven (around 350°F or 175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or on a skillet over medium heat with a lid for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and the crust is crisp. The microwave is convenient but may result in a softer crust.
Frequently Asked Questions About Happy Joe’s Special
- Is sauerkraut essential for Happy Joe’s Special?
- Absolutely! The sauerkraut is what truly makes this pizza “special.” Its tangy flavor provides a crucial counterpoint to the rich Canadian bacon and cheese, defining the unique taste profile of this Midwestern classic.
- Can I use a different type of ham instead of Canadian bacon?
- While Canadian bacon is traditional for its specific texture and mild, savory flavor, you could substitute with diced ham. However, be aware that the flavor profile might differ slightly, as Canadian bacon tends to be leaner and less salty than some other ham varieties.
- Can I freeze this pizza?
- Yes, you can! You can freeze either the unbaked pizza (after assembling but before baking) or leftover baked slices. For unbaked, assemble the pizza on parchment paper, then transfer to the freezer until firm. Wrap tightly and store for up to a month. Bake from frozen, adding extra baking time. For baked slices, wrap individually and reheat as described above.
- What if I don’t like sauerkraut?
- While the sauerkraut is key to the “Special,” if you’re truly averse, you could omit it. However, the pizza would then be a Canadian bacon pizza, not the iconic Happy Joe’s Special. Perhaps try it with a smaller amount first, as its flavor mellows during baking and integrates surprisingly well.
Other Recipes You May Enjoy
- Cheesy Sloppy Joe Bake
- Sloppy José Sandwiches
- Happy Birthday, America … and to me!
- 20 Celebration Recipes
- Fluffy Pancakes with Nutella and Strawberry-Banana Salsa
Originally published on July 6, 2012. Last updated: April 21, 2021.