Ghost Pizza is a fun and festive dish that’s perfect for Halloween or any spooky-themed night. It features a delicious homemade pizza crust topped with gooey melted cheese shaped like a little ghost, plus all your favorite pizza toppings hiding beneath. The “ghost” shape adds a playful twist to classic pizza that everyone loves, from kids to adults.
I like making Ghost Pizza because it’s such an easy way to bring a smile to the table. You can use a cookie cutter or just shape the cheese freehand to create your spooky ghost, which makes it a great activity to do with family or friends. Watching the cheese melt into your ghost shape is always so satisfying!
My favorite way to enjoy Ghost Pizza is with a side of crunchy carrots and ranch dip to add a fresh bite. It’s a cozy, fun meal that makes any ordinary night feel special. Plus, leftovers make a great snack the next day — ghost shapes or not!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza dough: Fresh dough works best for a crispy crust, but store-bought pizza dough or even naan bread makes a quick substitute. Just adjust baking time as needed.
Mozzarella cheese: Use shredded mozzarella for melting under the ghost dough and small mozzarella balls for the ghost’s arms and head. If you can’t find bocconcini, mini mozzarella pearls or string cheese cut into chunks work well too.
Black olives: These create the ghost’s eyes and mouth. If you prefer, you can use small pieces of roasted red pepper or cut-up pepperoni for a different look.
Pizza sauce and tomatoes: Classic tomato sauce adds flavor and moisture. Fresh tomato slices add extra juiciness and sweetness, but feel free to skip if you prefer a white pizza style.
How Can You Shape the Perfect Ghost on Pizza?
Shaping the ghost dough topping is easier than it looks! Here are some simple tips:
- Roll out the dough thinly so it crisps nicely on top of your pizza.
- Cut or freehand a broad-bottom shape with arms stretched out—think of a classic sheet ghost.
- Use smaller dough balls to add rounded “hands” or “head” details for a 3D effect.
- Brush the ghost shape lightly with olive oil to help it brown evenly and stay soft inside.
- If you want cleaner edges, use a knife or pizza cutter to trim the dough after placing it on the pizza.
Using parchment paper helps move the pizza to the oven without breaking your ghost shape. Baking it at a high temperature means the crust stays crisp while the ghost puffs up beautifully.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Pizza stone or baking sheet – I recommend a heated pizza stone for a crispy crust and even cooking.
- Rolling pin – makes shaping the dough smooth and even for the base and ghost figure.
- Parchment paper – helps transfer the pizza easily to the oven without disturbing the toppings.
- Small spoon or piping bag – for placing small cheese balls and assembling the ghost details neatly.
- Pizza cutter or sharp knife – to slice the pizza cleanly after baking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap mozzarella for gouda or cheddar for a richer, sharper flavor that melts well.
- Add cooked sausage, pepperoni, or ham under the cheese for extra meaty bites.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for more veggie toppings that add color and flavor.
- Use pesto or white sauce instead of tomato sauce for a different twist on the base.
How to Make Ghost Pizza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pizza:
- 1 ball pizza dough (about 12 inches in diameter)
- ½ cup pizza sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4-5 slices tomato (optional)
- Olive oil, for brushing
- Cornmeal or flour, for dusting
For the Ghost Details:
- 6-8 small mozzarella balls or bocconcini (to shape ghost hands and head)
- 3 black olives, sliced (for eyes and mouth)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes baking time. Getting your ghost shape just right may take a little extra care, but the whole process is under 30 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dough:
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to get hot. Lightly dust your work surface with flour or cornmeal. Roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle and transfer it carefully onto a piece of parchment paper.
2. Add Sauce, Cheese, and Tomato:
Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving about a 1-inch space around the edges for the crust. Scatter tomato slices over the sauce if you’re using them. Then sprinkle shredded mozzarella all over the pizza base.
3. Shape and Add the Ghost:
Roll out a small piece of dough thinly and shape it like a ghost — wide at the bottom, narrow at the top, with outstretched arms. Place your “ghost” dough on top of the cheese layer. Add small dough balls around the ghost for hands and the head to give it extra dimension. Brush everything lightly with olive oil to help it turn golden.
4. Add the Face and Bake:
Use the sliced black olives to create eyes and a mouth on your ghost shape. Then, carefully slide the pizza with the parchment onto the preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden, cheese is bubbly, and your ghost puffs up slightly and turns a light golden color.
5. Cool and Serve:
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice and enjoy your spooky, tasty ghost pizza with your favorite sides!
Can I Use Pre-Made Pizza Dough for Ghost Pizza?
Absolutely! Pre-made dough works great and saves time. Just make sure to roll it out evenly and follow the same baking instructions for best results.
How Do I Make the Ghost Shape Without a Cookie Cutter?
No worries! You can freehand the ghost shape by rolling dough thin and shaping it with a knife. Using parchment paper to transfer it helps keep the shape intact while placing it on the pizza.
Can I Prepare Ghost Pizza Ahead of Time?
You can assemble the pizza (including the ghost dough) ahead and refrigerate it for a few hours. Let it come to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftover Ghost Pizza?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep the crust crisp. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
