Description

Master the art of making the perfect pan pizza with this comprehensive, step-by-step recipe. Our guide walks you through everything from preparing a rich and chewy dough to selecting the right sauce, cheese, and toppings. Whether you prefer classic flavors or want to experiment with gourmet ingredients, this homemade pan pizza will satisfy your cravings with its crispy, golden crust and gooey cheese. Great for family dinners or weekend gatherings, this recipe is easy to follow and yields consistently delicious results.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough:

3 ½ cups bread flour (or all-purpose flour)
1 ¼ cups lukewarm water
1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for greasing the pan)
1 tsp salt
1 tsp sugar

For the Sauce:

1 (15-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings:

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup pepperoni slices (or other desired toppings like sausage, mushrooms, onions, bell peppers)
Grated Parmesan cheese for sprinkling

Instructions

Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in lukewarm water. Let it sit for 10 minutes until frothy.
Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Slowly add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
Knead the Dough: On a floured surface, knead the dough for 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
Prepare the Pan: Grease a 12-inch cast-iron skillet or pizza pan generously with olive oil. Press the dough into the pan, stretching it to the edges. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
Make the Sauce: Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté the garlic for 1 minute, then add the crushed tomatoes, sugar, oregano, and basil. Simmer for 15-20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Assemble the Pizza: Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top, followed by your desired toppings.
Bake the Pizza: Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). Bake the pizza on the lowest rack for 12-15 minutes, until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and browned.
Serve: Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

For a fluffier crust, allow the dough to rise for an additional 30 minutes before pressing it into the pan.

Prep Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including dough rise time)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 14g
Cholesterol: 25mg