Nothing brings people together like pizza. Whether it’s a family night or a gathering with friends, sharing a delicious pie is a surefire way to create lasting memories and joyful times.
Cooking up the perfect crust, though, can seem daunting. But with just a few simple ingredients and a cast iron skillet, you can easily create a restaurant-quality pizza right at home.
We’ll share my foolproof Cast Iron Pizza recipe and technique. You’ll be surprised by just how crispy, cheesy, and heavenly the results are from this lightweight cooking method.
Get ready to have your mind blown!
About Cast Iron Pizza
Cast Iron Pizza has been gaining popularity in recent years due to its versatility and unique cooking properties.
Cast iron skillets are known for their ability to heat evenly and retain heat, making them the perfect vessel for baking delicious pizzas. They also create a wonderfully crispy crust that you won’t be able to resist.
What Are The Ingredients Used In A Cast Iron Pizza Recipe?
Let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to whip up a mouthwatering Cast Iron Pizza:
- Pizza Dough
- Pizza Sauce
- Cheese (Mozzarella, Parmesan, And Any Other Favorite Toppings)
- Olive Oil
Pizza Dough
The key to a great Cast Iron Pizza is starting with high-quality dough.
- If you’re short on time, using pre-made dough is a convenient option.
- If you have the time and patience, making your dough allows for more customization and control over the final product. Plus, making your dough from scratch is a fun and satisfying experience.
Pizza sauce
Pizza sauce is another essential component of a delicious pizza. You can use homemade or store-bought pizza sauce, whichever you prefer.
Just remember to not go too heavy on the sauce, as it can make the crust soggy. A thin layer is all you need to add a burst of flavor.
Cheese
The ultimate star of any pizza. Of course, you can use your favorite type of cheese, but mozzarella and parmesan are classic choices that work well in a Cast Iron Pizza.
Feel free to get creative and add other toppings, such as vegetables, meats, or even fruit, for a unique twist.
Olive oil
Olive oil is used to grease the cast iron skillet and helps create a crispy, golden crust. Be sure to use a good quality olive oil for optimal flavor.
That’s it! Just a few simple ingredients that you likely already have on hand.
Topping Variations
There are an endless variety of toppings you can try with Cast Iron Pizza. Here are just a few ideas to get you started:
- BBQ Chicken Pizza: Swap out traditional sauce for BBQ sauce and top with shredded chicken, red onions, and cilantro.
- Margherita Pizza: Keep it classic with just fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes.
- Hawaiian Pizza: Add pineapple chunks and ham on top of your pizza for a sweet and savory combination.
- Veggie Lovers Pizza: Load up your pizza with an assortment of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, spinach, mushrooms, and olives.
- Meat Lovers Pizza: If you’re a fan of meat, top your pizza with pepperoni, sausage, bacon, and any other meats of your choice.
- Dessert Pizza: Who says pizza is just for savory dishes? Spread some Nutella on your crust and top with sliced strawberries or bananas for a sweet treat.
Experiment with different topping combinations to find your perfect Cast Iron Pizza.
How To Make Cast Iron Pizza
Now you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to make the pizza! Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make a Cast Iron Pizza:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
The key to a crispy crust is a hot oven, so place a rack in the top-most position of the oven; preheat it to 475°F.
Step 2: Roll Out Your Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a circle that will fit inside your cast iron skillet.
Step 3: Grease The Skillet
Using olive oil, grease the bottom and sides of your skillet.
Step 4: Transfer The Dough To The Skillet
Carefully place the rolled-out dough into the greased cast iron skillet, pressing it down gently.
Step 5: Add Toppings
Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce onto the crust, followed by cheese and any desired toppings.
Step 6: Cook On The Stovetop
Set the skillet on the stove over medium heat and let it cook for about 5 minutes or until the crust starts to turn golden.
Step 7: Move to the Oven
Gently move the skillet to the already hot oven and continue baking for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese has fully melted and is bubbling.
Step 8: Let It Cool And Serve
Once done, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
And just like that, you have a delicious Cast Iron Pizza ready to be devoured!
What Pairs Well With Cast Iron Pizza?
Cast Iron Pizza is a versatile dish that can be paired with various sides and beverages. Here are a few ideas to pair with your homemade Cast Iron Pizza:
- Salad: A simple green salad or Caprese salad pairs well with the rich and hearty flavors of Cast Iron Pizza.
- Garlic Knots: These soft buttery bread rolls make for a great appetizer or side dish to accompany your pizza.
- Beer: Nothing goes better with pizza than a cold beer. The carbonation helps cut through the richness of the pizza and enhances the flavors.
- Wine: A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon, also pairs well with the bold flavors of Cast Iron Pizza.
- Gelato: For a sweet finish to your meal, enjoy some gelato as a dessert. The creamy texture and light flavors make it the perfect contrast to the savory pizza.
The possibilities for side dishes and beverage pairings are endless. Get creative and try different combinations to find your perfect match.
So next time you’re craving pizza, why not switch things up and give Cast Iron Pizza a try?
Read more:
Additional Benefits Of Using Cast Iron For Pizza Making
Not only is Cast Iron Pizza delicious and easy to make, it also offers additional benefits:
- Versatility: Cast iron skillets can be used for a variety of cooking methods, making them a versatile tool in the kitchen.
- Even Heat Distribution: The heavy nature of cast iron allows for even heat distribution, resulting in a crispy and evenly cooked pizza crust.
- Non-Toxic: Unlike non-stick pans that can release harmful chemicals when heated, cast iron is a natural and safe cooking surface.
- Durability: With proper care, cast iron skillets can last for generations. This makes it a cost-effective investment for your kitchen.
With all these benefits in mind, it’s no wonder why Cast Iron Pizza has gained popularity among home cooks.
Cast Iron Pizza Recipe – Tips For A Delicious Cast Iron Pizza
To ensure a delicious Cast Iron Pizza every time, here are some tips to keep in mind:
Tip 1: Use A Well-Seasoned Skillet – A well-seasoned skillet will prevent the pizza from sticking and add extra flavor to the crust.
Tip 2: Don’t Overfill The Skillet – Leave some space around the edges of the skillet to allow for the expansion of toppings and cheese.
Tip 3: Preheat The Skillet – Just like preheating your oven, preheating the skillet will help create a crispy crust.
Tip 4: Let It Rest Before Slicing – Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This will prevent all the toppings from sliding off when you slice into it.
Tip 5: Experiment With Different Flours – While traditional pizza dough is made with all-purpose flour, don’t be afraid to try out different flours, such as whole wheat or gluten-free, for a healthier option.
With these tips in mind, you can create your own perfect Cast Iron Pizza recipe that suits your taste and dietary preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Cast Iron Pizza is a delicious and versatile dish that can be easily made at home. With endless topping possibilities, it allows for creativity in the kitchen.
Now you know the Cast Iron Pizza recipe, tips, and pairing suggestions, so why not give it a try? Gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your family and friends with a homemade Cast Iron Pizza.
Cast Iron Pizza Recipe
Ingredients
- Pizza dough
- Olive oil
- Pizza sauce
- Shredded cheese mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend
- Desired toppings pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, etc.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 475°F.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a circle that will fit inside your cast iron skillet.
- Using olive oil, grease the bottom and sides of your skillet.
- Carefully place the rolled-out dough into the greased cast iron skillet, pressing it down gently.
- Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce onto the crust, followed by cheese and desired toppings.
- Place the skillet on the stovetop over medium heat and cook for 5 minutes or until the crust begins to brown.
- Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once done, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.