Barry Special: The Cheese and Tomato Ketchup Pizza That Defies Expectations

As a young culinary student, I remember late-night study sessions fueled by questionable decisions. One such decision, born of desperation and a nearly empty fridge, led to an accidental masterpiece (or so we thought at the time): a pizza slathered in tomato ketchup and blanketed with cheddar cheese. We affectionately dubbed it the “Barry Special,” after the perpetually hungry roommate who first championed its unconventional deliciousness. Years later, while my culinary tastes have certainly evolved, the memory of that gooey, oddly satisfying creation remains a nostalgic reminder of simpler times and the boundless creativity that can arise from limited resources.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 minutes 45 seconds
• Total Time: 8 minutes
• Servings: 2
• Yield: 1 pizza
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 300 g cheddar cheese
• 50 g tomato ketchup
• 1 ready-made pizza dough

Equipment Needed

• Microwave

Instructions

1. Begin by taking your ready-made pizza base. This simplifies the process and gets you closer to enjoying your pizza in mere minutes.

2. Lightly spread the tomato ketchup evenly over the entire pizza base. Think of it as a tangy, slightly sweet canvas upon which your cheesy masterpiece will be built. Be careful not to overdo it – a thin layer provides the perfect balance.

3. Cut thick slabs of cheddar cheese and arrange them to completely cover the pizza base. The thickness of the slabs ensures a satisfyingly gooey melt. Don’t be shy with the cheese; this is the star of the show!

4. Place the pizza in the microwave and cook on full heat for 2 minutes and 45 seconds. Keep a close eye on it, as microwave cooking times can vary. You want the cheese to be fully melted and bubbly, but not burnt.

5. Remove from the microwave. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, easy-to-make pizza! Prepare for a stodge fest.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Cheese Choice: While the recipe calls for cheddar, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. A combination of cheddar and mozzarella will provide a classic pizza texture with a sharper cheddar flavor. Consider adding a sprinkle of parmesan for a salty kick.
• Ketchup Application: To avoid a soggy pizza, apply the ketchup sparingly. If you prefer a more intense tomato flavor, consider using tomato paste mixed with a touch of water and seasonings.
• Microwave Variations: Microwave ovens vary significantly in power. Start with 2 minutes, then check the pizza every 15 seconds until the cheese is melted to your liking.
• Crispier Crust: For a slightly crispier crust, preheat a microwave-safe plate or pizza stone in the microwave before adding the pizza. This will help to brown the bottom slightly.
• Add Some Heat: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes before microwaving will add a touch of heat to balance the sweetness of the ketchup.
• Herbs and Spices: Before microwaving, experiment with sprinkling dried herbs like oregano, basil, or thyme over the cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Garlic powder and onion powder also work well.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve your Cheese and Tomato Ketchup Pizza immediately for the best flavor and texture. The melted cheese is most enjoyable when it’s still hot and gooey.

If you happen to have any leftovers (unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This pizza is best consumed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Reheat leftovers in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, or until the cheese is melted and the pizza is heated through. You can also reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to help crisp up the crust (although the microwave will be much faster). Be aware that reheating may change the texture slightly.

Due to the high moisture content of the cheese and ketchup, freezing is not recommended as it can result in a soggy texture upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	628.7 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	448 g	71%
Total Fat	49.8 g	76%
Saturated Fat	31.6 g	158%
Cholesterol	157.5 mg	52%
Sodium	1210 mg	50%
Total Carbohydrate	8.2 g	2%
Dietary Fiber	0.1 g	0%
Sugars	6.5 g	25%
Protein	37.8 g	75%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Crust Alternatives: Experiment with different types of pre-made pizza crusts, such as thin crust, whole wheat crust, or even gluten-free crust for dietary needs.
• Spicy Ketchup: Use a spicy or flavored ketchup for an extra kick. Sriracha ketchup or a ketchup with added herbs and spices can add depth of flavor.
• Cheese Blend: Use a blend of cheeses instead of just cheddar. Mozzarella, provolone, or Monterey Jack would all be delicious additions.
• Veggie Boost: Add some vegetables to the pizza for extra nutrients and flavor. Sliced tomatoes, onions, peppers, or mushrooms would all be great choices. Add these before microwaving.
• Protein Power: Add cooked bacon, sausage, or pepperoni for a heartier pizza.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I bake this in the oven instead of microwaving it?
A: While this recipe is designed for the speed and convenience of a microwave, you can bake it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Q: My pizza crust gets soggy in the microwave. How can I prevent this?
A: Try placing a paper towel underneath the pizza while microwaving to absorb excess moisture. You can also preheat a microwave-safe plate to help crisp up the crust slightly.

Q: Can I use shredded cheese instead of slabs?
A: Yes, shredded cheese will work just fine. It might melt a bit faster than slabs, so reduce the microwaving time accordingly.

Q: Can I add other toppings to this pizza?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as some toppings might require longer to cook than others.

Q: Is this pizza suitable for kids?
A: Yes, this pizza is a simple and kid-friendly option. However, be sure to adjust the ketchup and cheese amounts to suit their preferences.

Final Thoughts

The Barry Special is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to the fact that delicious food doesn’t always require fancy ingredients or elaborate techniques. It’s a quick, easy, and surprisingly satisfying meal that’s perfect for those times when you’re short on time and inspiration. So, go ahead, embrace the simplicity, and give this unconventional pizza a try. I encourage you to experiment with variations, personalize it to your liking, and, most importantly, share it with friends and family. After all, food is best enjoyed when shared.