After the Bell: Wilhite Reviews Pepp’s July Pizza Lineup

July 2, 2026

This month's After the Bell guest teacher is Carrie Wilhite, an English and drama teacher at Urbandale High School heading into her third year in the classroom this fall. Ms. Wilhite stopped by Pepp's ready to grade our July pizza specials — and she came in with high expectations.

Here's a look at this month's scorecard: ‍

Barbecue (BBQ) chicken pizza at Pepp's Pizzeria

Ricotta-Roni (July 1-6)

This special brings the classic pepperoni pizza to the next level, piled high with creamy ricotta and finished with a drizzle of hot honey for the perfect sweet-and-savory bite.

"I love me a hot honey drizzle. I feel like that always makes it amazing... yeah, ricotta, definitely worth it to bite in that far. That's delicious."

An instant A+ — Ms. Wilhite didn't even hesitate on this one.

Grade:
Grade B
Meatball pizza at Pepp's pizzeria

Shrimp Alfredo (July 8-13)

Tender shrimp meets our creamy alfredo sauce on this specialty pie, bringing pasta-night flavor straight to a slice.

"It's like I'm eating pasta but on pizza, but 10 times better."

Even with a few bell peppers sprinkled in (not exactly her favorite), Ms. Wilhite barely noticed — earning this pizza a solid B+.

Grade:
Grade B+
Elote pizza at Pepp's pizzeria

Margherita (July 15-20)

Sometimes simple really is best. Our Margherita keeps it classic with rich red sauce, fresh mozzarella, and a generous helping of basil.

"I feel like I haven't had a red sauce this good yet. It's so good. Perfect amount of basil on top, too."

Another easy A+ — proof that the classics never miss.

Grade:
Grade A
Thanksgiving pizza at Pepp's Pizzeria

Carolina Chicken (July 22-27)

Seasoned chicken, a touch of spice, and crisp raw cabbage come together for a pizza with serious crunch and flavor.

"It almost feels like a crab rangoon. The slight spice on that is really good, and I do like the cabbage raw — I feel like that definitely adds to it."

This one exceeded expectations and rounded out the month with yet another A+.

Grade:
Grade A+

Grade:
Grade A+

🌟 The Gold Star Winner... Carolina Chicken!

After tasting all four July specials, Ms. Wilhite awarded her Gold Star to the Carolina Chicken Pizza.

"I feel like it was the most unique, and it had just a little bit of spice, which is perfect on a pizza."

🍕 Try the July Pizza Specials at Pepp's Pizzeria in Urbandale, Iowa

All limited-time pizza specials are available this month at Pepp’s Pizzeria — served as whole pies, personal pies, or by the slice. Visit us at 4640 86th Street in Urbandale, Iowa, or explore our full menu to see why we’re a go-to for some of the best pizza in Des Moines. Order online and use code 10WILHITE to get 10% off your order throughout July.

Nominate a Teacher You Love!

Thank you so much to Ms. Wilhite for reviewing our July specials! At Pepp's, we're proud to support local educators across the Des Moines area who show up for their students every single day. Each month, we treat one deserving teacher to a FREE pizza party.

Help us choose the next winner — submit your nomination today!

Pepp’s Pizzeria – Urbandale’s Home for Crust You Dream About (and Pizza You Brag About)

📍 4640 86th Street, Urbandale, IA (Open Monday-Saturday from 11 am-8:30 pm)

❤️ Serving up local flavor, creative monthly specials, and a side of Iowa Nice.

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