Sheet Pan Pizza: Easy, Crispy, and Perfect for Any Occasion
If you’re searching for an easy, delicious, and family-friendly dinner idea, then this sheet pan pizza recipe is your answer.
Not only does it simplify the pizza-making process, but it also guarantees a crispy crust and flavorful toppings that everyone will love. This method transforms your ordinary pizza night into a hassle-free cooking experience, allowing for endless customization according to your family’s preferences.
Whether you’re a fan of classic pepperoni, loaded vegetables, or a combination of both, the sheet pan pizza caters to all. Get ready to elevate your pizza game with this foolproof recipe that promises a mouthwatering pizza straight out of your oven.
Ingredients To Make Sheet Pan Pizza
A sheet pan pizza is a delectably easy and efficient way to cook pizza using a standard baking sheet found in most kitchens.
This method allows for the preparation of a large, rectangular pizza that can feed multiple people at once, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
By spreading the dough directly onto the sheet pan, it bakes evenly and develops a delightfully crispy crust, setting the foundation for a variety of toppings that cater to all taste preferences.
These are easy-to-find ingredients that you need to turn a perfect sheet pan pizza recipe into reality:
1. Pizza dough: For your sheet pan pizza, you can either make the pizza dough from scratch or opt for a store-bought version. Homemade dough allows for customization of flavor and texture, whereas store-bought dough offers convenience and time-saving benefits.
2. Pizza sauce: For the best sheet pan pizza experience, choose a pizza sauce that is thick and richly flavored with herbs, as this will spread evenly and prevent the dough from becoming soggy while baking.
3. Olive oil: Using high-quality olive oil not only prevents the pizza from sticking to the pan but also adds a subtle, fragrant richness that elevates the overall flavor profile of the sheet pan pizza.
4. Mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella cheese’s smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture and mild but distinctive flavor profiles make it an unbeatable choice for creating that classic pizza experience on a sheet pan pizza.
5. Sliced pepperoni: Sliced pepperoni augments the sheet pan pizza with its spicy and smoky flavor, becoming slightly crispy at the edges as it bakes to add a delightful texture to each slice.
6. Sliced black olives: Sliced black olives offer a pleasing textural contrast and a mild, briny flavor that elevates the overall taste profile of the sheet pan pizza.
7. Garlic powder: Garlic powder infuses the pizza with a concentrated burst of flavor, effortlessly adding a deep, aromatic essence that contrasts beautifully with the tangy pizza sauce and creamy mozzarella.
8. Dried oregano: Dried oregano adds a touch of Mediterranean flair to the sheet pan pizza, infusing the dish with its earthy, slightly bitter undertones that perfectly complement the savory toppings.
9. Salt and pepper: Salt and pepper, though simple, are fundamental seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the pizza dough and toppings, bringing out the best in every bite.
10. Basil leaves: Fresh basil leaves add a burst of freshness and a hint of sweetness, perfectly balancing the rich and savory flavors of the pizza.
How To Make Sheet Pan Pizza?
Step 1: Preheat The Oven
Set the temperature to 475 – 500°F (about 245 – 260°C) to create a hot environment that mimics a traditional pizza oven, promoting a quick bake that locks in flavor.
This high heat helps crisp the bottom of the crust while melting the cheese beautifully, creating that beloved pizzeria quality at home.
Step 2: Prepare The Pizza Dough
Lightly oil the sheet pan with olive oil to prevent sticking. Then, take your prepared pizza dough and spread it evenly across the sheet pan, pushing it to the edges.
Make sure the dough is spread uniformly to ensure even baking. If the dough starts to spring back, let it rest for a few minutes before continuing.
Step 3: Apply The Pizza Sauce
Spoon the pizza sauce onto the spread dough, leaving a small border around the edges of the crust. Spread the sauce evenly with the back of the spoon.
You can adjust the amount of sauce based on your preference, but remember, too much sauce can make the dough soggy.
Step 4: Add The Toppings
Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. Layer the pepperoni slices and black olives (or any other toppings of your choice) over the cheese.
Add a light sprinkle of garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to season.
Step 5: Bake The Pizza
Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown.
This usually takes about 15 to 25 minutes, depending on your oven. Keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the cheese to set and makes it easier to cut.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an added burst of flavor. Slice, serve, and enjoy your homemade sheet pan pizza!
Suggestions For a 10-Out-Of-10 Sheet Pan Pizza
Some tips to elevate your sheet pan pizza recipe to a 10 out of 10 are below. Put them into practice next time to have a satisfactory result:
1. Use a Preheated Sheet Pan: For an extra crispy crust, try preheating your sheet pan in the oven as it warms up. This will give the bottom of the pizza dough a quick initial blast of heat, mimicking a pizza stone’s effect.
2. Layer Wisely: Begin with a layer of cheese right on top of the sauce before adding other toppings. This technique helps in locking in the sauce’s moisture, preventing the crust from becoming soggy.
3. Experiment with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to try different topping combinations. Beyond the traditional favorites, consider incorporating unique ingredients like artichokes, prosciutto, or a drizzle of balsamic reduction after baking for added complexity.
4. Oven Rotation: Halfway through baking, rotate your sheet pan 180 degrees to ensure even cooking, as oven hot spots can lead to unevenly cooked pizzas.
5. Rest Before Cutting: Allow your pizza to rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. This resting period lets the cheese set, making your pizza easier to slice and serve.
Which Side Dishes Are Suitable With Sheet Pan Pizza?
The pizza itself is a delicious dish, but it can become an unforgettable experience if you serve it with good side dishes. Here are some recommendations:
1. Garden Fresh Salad: A simple salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. It’s a refreshing side that complements the hearty flavors of the pizza.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, croutons, and Caesar dressing can add a rich, creamy texture and flavor to balance the pizza’s savory taste.
3. Italian Antipasto Platter: Create an antipasto platter with an assortment of olives, artichoke hearts, cured meats, cheese, and pepperoni for guests to nibble on alongside their pizza slices.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Bake sweet potato fries as a sweet and savory side that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this homemade sheet pan pizza recipe not only revolutionizes the way we think about homemade pizza but also brings a new level of enjoyment and simplicity to the cooking process.
With its crispy crust, customizable toppings, and easy cleanup, it’s the ultimate solution for a quick and delicious meal that pleases crowds and families alike.
Whether you’re gathering around the table for a family dinner or entertaining friends, this recipe guarantees a delightful experience.
Say goodbye to takeout and hello to a new, beloved kitchen tradition that’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Sheet Pan Pizza
Ingredients
- 1 lb pizza dough (for an 18x13-inch sheet pan)
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1/3 cup sliced black olives
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Basil leaves
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 475 - 500°F (246 - 260°C). This high temperature is essential for baking the pizza quickly and achieving a crispy crust.
- Lightly coat the sheet pan with olive oil. Place your pizza dough on the prepared sheet pan. Stretch and press the dough evenly across the pan, ensuring a uniform thickness for even baking.
- Spoon the pizza sauce onto the dough, spreading it evenly while leaving a margin around the edges for the crust.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, then evenly distribute the pepperoni slices and black olives (or your choice of toppings) across the cheese layer.
- Enhance the flavors with a light sprinkle of garlic powder, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the sheet pan to the preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 25 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
- After removing the pizza from the oven, allow it to cool for a few minutes. This helps the cheese set and makes slicing easier.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra layer of flavor. Slice the pizza into squares or rectangles, serve, and enjoy!