Papa Johns New Menu Item August Recipes: Delicious Creations You Can Make at Home!
Papa Johns is a household name when it comes to pizza, and their menu is constantly evolving to cater to diverse tastes and preferences. While they regularly introduce limited-time offers and seasonal items, recreating the magic of Papa Johns’ innovations in your own kitchen can be a fun and rewarding experience. While I cannot provide information regarding specifically named or brand-new menu items that haven’t been publicly released, I can offer creative recipe ideas inspired by popular pizza styles and ingredient combinations often found at Papa Johns. These recipes use readily available ingredients, and you can tailor them to your liking. We’ll explore creative pizza recipes, side dishes, and even dessert ideas inspired by the familiar flavors of Papa Johns. Get ready to unleash your inner pizza chef!
## Pizza Recipes Inspired by Papa Johns
While we can’t replicate a specific unreleased menu item, we can draw inspiration from the flavors and styles that Papa Johns is known for. Let’s dive into some mouth-watering pizza recipes:
### 1. The “Works” Pizza (Papa Johns Style)
The “Works” or “Everything” pizza is a classic for a reason. It’s loaded with all the best toppings, ensuring a flavor explosion in every bite. Here’s how to make your own Papa Johns-inspired version:
**Ingredients:**
* **Pizza Dough:**
* 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
* 1 teaspoon sugar
* 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
* 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing
* **Pizza Sauce:**
* 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* **Toppings:**
* 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
* 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
* 1/2 cup Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
* 1/2 cup green bell pepper, sliced
* 1/2 cup red onion, sliced
* 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
* 1/4 cup mushrooms, sliced
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dough:** In a large bowl, dissolve sugar in warm water. Sprinkle yeast over the water and let stand for 5-10 minutes, until foamy. This indicates the yeast is active.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5 minutes.
3. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
4. **Prepare the Sauce:** In a small saucepan, combine tomato sauce, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer over low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
5. **Preheat Oven and Prepare Pizza Stone (Optional):** Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.
6. **Assemble the Pizza:** Punch down the risen dough and divide it in half (for two smaller pizzas) or keep it whole (for one large pizza). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to your desired thickness and shape. Transfer the dough to a pizza peel dusted with cornmeal (if using a pizza stone) or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
8. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
9. Arrange the pepperoni, sausage, green bell pepper, red onion, black olives, and mushrooms over the cheese.
10. **Bake the Pizza:** If using a pizza stone, carefully slide the pizza from the peel onto the hot stone. If using a baking sheet, place the baking sheet directly in the oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. **Serve:** Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* For a crispier crust, brush the edges with olive oil before baking.
* Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
* Customize the toppings to your liking. Consider adding banana peppers, jalapeños, or spinach.
* For a spicier pizza, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
* If you don’t have time to make your own dough, use store-bought pizza dough.
### 2. BBQ Chicken Pizza (Papa Johns Inspiration)
BBQ Chicken Pizza is a popular choice, and for good reason! The sweet and smoky flavor of BBQ sauce combined with chicken and red onion is simply irresistible. Here’s how to make a version inspired by Papa Johns:
**Ingredients:**
* **Pizza Dough:** (Same as above or store-bought)
* **BBQ Sauce:**
* 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
* **Toppings:**
* 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
* 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced
* 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
* 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dough:** Follow the instructions above for making or using store-bought pizza dough.
2. **Preheat Oven and Prepare Pizza Stone (Optional):** Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.
3. **Assemble the Pizza:** Punch down the risen dough and divide it in half (for two smaller pizzas) or keep it whole (for one large pizza). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to your desired thickness and shape. Transfer the dough to a pizza peel dusted with cornmeal (if using a pizza stone) or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread a thin layer of BBQ sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
5. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
6. Arrange the cooked chicken and red onion over the cheese.
7. **Bake the Pizza:** If using a pizza stone, carefully slide the pizza from the peel onto the hot stone. If using a baking sheet, place the baking sheet directly in the oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. **Garnish and Serve:** Garnish with chopped cilantro (if using) and let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
* Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor.
* Drizzle with a little extra BBQ sauce after baking.
* For a spicier pizza, add a few jalapeño slices.
* Try using a different type of cheese, such as provolone or cheddar.
### 3. Garden Fresh Veggie Pizza (Papa Johns Inspired)
If you’re looking for a healthier and lighter option, a veggie pizza is the way to go. This recipe is packed with fresh vegetables and vibrant flavors.
**Ingredients:**
* **Pizza Dough:** (Same as above or store-bought)
* **Pizza Sauce:** (Same as above or your favorite store-bought sauce)
* **Toppings:**
* 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
* 1/2 cup green bell pepper, sliced
* 1/2 cup red onion, sliced
* 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
* 1/2 cup tomatoes, diced
* 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
* 1/4 cup spinach, chopped
* 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, quartered (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dough:** Follow the instructions above for making or using store-bought pizza dough.
2. **Preheat Oven and Prepare Pizza Stone (Optional):** Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.
3. **Assemble the Pizza:** Punch down the risen dough and divide it in half (for two smaller pizzas) or keep it whole (for one large pizza). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to your desired thickness and shape. Transfer the dough to a pizza peel dusted with cornmeal (if using a pizza stone) or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
5. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
6. Arrange the green bell pepper, red onion, mushrooms, tomatoes, black olives, spinach, and artichoke hearts (if using) over the cheese.
7. **Bake the Pizza:** If using a pizza stone, carefully slide the pizza from the peel onto the hot stone. If using a baking sheet, place the baking sheet directly in the oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. **Serve:** Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Roast the vegetables before adding them to the pizza for a deeper flavor.
* Add other vegetables, such as zucchini, yellow squash, or broccoli.
* Use a different type of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese.
* Drizzle with balsamic glaze after baking for a touch of sweetness.
* Sprinkle with fresh herbs, such as basil or oregano, before serving.
## Side Dishes Inspired by Papa Johns
No pizza meal is complete without some delicious side dishes. Here are a few ideas inspired by Papa Johns’ offerings:
### 1. Garlic Knots
Garlic knots are a classic and always a crowd-pleaser. These are simple to make and incredibly addictive.
**Ingredients:**
* **Pizza Dough:** (Same as above or store-bought)
* **Garlic Butter:**
* 1/2 cup butter, melted
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dough:** Follow the instructions above for making or using store-bought pizza dough.
2. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. **Shape the Knots:** Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Cut the dough into strips, about 1 inch wide. Tie each strip into a knot and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. **Prepare the Garlic Butter:** In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, salt, garlic powder, and parsley.
5. **Brush and Bake:** Brush the garlic butter generously over the knots. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. **Serve:** Serve the garlic knots warm.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before baking.
* Use roasted garlic for a sweeter flavor.
* Dip the knots in marinara sauce for extra flavor.
### 2. Cheesy Breadsticks
Cheesy breadsticks are another popular side dish that’s easy to make at home.
**Ingredients:**
* **Pizza Dough:** (Same as above or store-bought)
* **Garlic Butter:** (Same as above)
* **Cheese:**
* 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
* 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dough:** Follow the instructions above for making or using store-bought pizza dough.
2. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. **Shape the Breadsticks:** Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a large rectangle, about 1/2 inch thick. Cut the dough into strips, about 1 inch wide.
4. **Prepare the Breadsticks:** Place the breadsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with garlic butter and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. **Serve:** Serve the cheesy breadsticks warm with marinara sauce.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add Italian seasoning to the garlic butter for extra flavor.
* Use different types of cheese, such as provolone or cheddar.
* Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
### 3. Oven-Baked Potato Wedges
While not a pizza-exclusive side, these are a great alternative to fries and complement pizza well.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 large russet potatoes, scrubbed and cut into wedges
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 teaspoon paprika
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. **Prepare the Potato Wedges:** In a large bowl, toss the potato wedges with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. **Bake:** Spread the potato wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and tender, flipping halfway through.
4. **Serve:** Serve the oven-baked potato wedges warm with your favorite dipping sauce (ranch, ketchup, etc.).
**Tips and Variations:**
* Soak the potato wedges in cold water for 30 minutes before baking for extra crispiness.
* Add other spices, such as chili powder or cumin.
* Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese after baking.
## Dessert Inspired by Pizza: Dessert Pizza!
End your meal with a sweet treat! Dessert pizza is a fun and creative way to satisfy your sweet tooth, inspired by the circular shape of the pizza.
### Chocolate Chip Cookie Pizza
A giant cookie topped with your favorite toppings? Yes, please!
**Ingredients:**
* 1 roll (16.5 ounces) refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough
* 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
* 1/4 cup powdered sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* Toppings of your choice: chocolate chips, sprinkles, fruit (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), chopped nuts, caramel sauce, chocolate sauce
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Prepare the Cookie Dough:** Press the chocolate chip cookie dough evenly onto a greased 12-inch pizza pan or baking sheet.
3. **Bake:** Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
4. **Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:** In a medium bowl, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
5. **Frost and Top:** Let the cookie cool completely. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cookie. Top with your favorite toppings.
6. **Serve:** Slice the dessert pizza into wedges and serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use a different flavor of cookie dough, such as sugar cookie or peanut butter cookie.
* Add a layer of Nutella under the frosting.
* Drizzle with melted chocolate or caramel sauce.
## Tips for Recreating the Papa Johns Experience at Home
While we’re making these recipes at home, here are some tips to capture the essence of Papa Johns:
* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** Starting with fresh and flavorful ingredients will make a big difference in the final product. Opt for good-quality cheese, fresh vegetables, and flavorful sauces.
* **Don’t Overload the Pizza:** Resist the urge to pile on too many toppings. Overcrowding the pizza can lead to a soggy crust and uneven baking.
* **Preheat Your Oven Properly:** Ensure your oven is fully preheated to the correct temperature before baking the pizza. This will help the crust cook evenly and become crispy.
* **Use a Pizza Stone (Optional):** A pizza stone helps to distribute heat evenly and create a crispier crust. If you don’t have a pizza stone, you can use a baking sheet.
* **Experiment with Flavors:** Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different toppings and flavor combinations. That’s the beauty of cooking at home!
* **Embrace the Imperfection:** Homemade pizza is often rustic and imperfect. Embrace the imperfections and enjoy the process of creating something delicious.
* **Presentation Matters:** Even though you’re at home, take a little time to present your pizza and side dishes nicely. It can enhance the overall dining experience.
* **Consider Serving Style:** Papa Johns often has signature dipping sauces. Consider making or buying similar sauces to complete the experience.
## Conclusion
While we await official announcements from Papa Johns regarding their new menu items in August (or any other time!), these recipes offer a fantastic way to enjoy pizza and inspired side dishes in the comfort of your own home. From classic “Works” pizzas to creative BBQ chicken pizzas and delicious garlic knots, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to create a pizza feast that rivals your favorite takeout! Remember to experiment, have fun, and enjoy the delicious results. Happy cooking (and eating)!