INTRODUCTION
Sheet pan pizza is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy pizza at home. It is easy to make and perfect for families or gatherings. Instead of the usual round pizza, this recipe allows you to make a big, rectangular pizza in one pan. This means you can easily feed many hungry mouths. Plus, it is simple enough for anyone to try, even if you are new to cooking or baking.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love this sheet pan pizza because it checks all the boxes for a perfect meal. First, it is super easy to make. You do not need any fancy tools or techniques. Second, the clean-up is a breeze since everything cooks in one pan. Third, sheet pan pizza is customizable. You can add your favorite toppings or keep it simple with classic cheese and sauce. Finally, it is great for sharing. Whether it is a family dinner or a party with friends, this pizza can feed a crowd and bring everyone together.
HOW TO MAKE Sheet Pan Pizza
Making sheet pan pizza is fun and straightforward. You will enjoy the process of mixing, spreading, and topping your pizza. With just a few simple ingredients and a little time, you will create a tasty meal that everyone will love.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
For this recipe, you will need some basic kitchen equipment:
- A large sheet pan (around 13×18 inches)
- Mixing bowls
- A whisk or spoon
- A rolling pin (optional)
- Parchment paper (optional but helpful)
- Oven mitts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ½ cups marinara sauce (or pizza sauce of your choice)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Your favorite toppings (pepperoni, bell peppers, olives, etc.)
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
-
Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. Mix these dry ingredients well. Then, gradually add warm water and olive oil, stirring until the mixture forms a rough dough.
-
Knead the Dough: On a clean surface, knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough feels sticky, you can sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
-
Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
-
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
-
Prepare the Sheet Pan: If you like, line your sheet pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This step makes cleaning easier too!
-
Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to remove excess air. Roll it out to fit the size of your baking sheet. If it is too elastic, let it rest for a few minutes before rolling again.
-
Add Sauce and Cheese: After placing the dough on the sheet pan, spread the marinara sauce evenly over the surface. Then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
-
Add Your Toppings: Now, it’s time to add the toppings you love. You can use pepperoni, bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, or whatever you prefer!
-
Bake the Pizza: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
-
Cool and Slice: Once baked, take the pizza out of the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into squares. Enjoy your delicious sheet pan pizza!
HOW TO SERVE Sheet Pan Pizza
Serving sheet pan pizza is easy and fun. You can cut it into squares or rectangles, depending on how large you want the pieces. Serve it with a side of salad or garlic bread for an even more satisfying meal. If you have any leftovers, they are great for next-day lunches!
STORAGE & FREEZING : Sheet Pan Pizza
To store leftover sheet pan pizza, simply place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, cut the pizza into slices, and wrap each slice in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer bag. They can last in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When you are ready to eat them, reheat in the oven or microwave.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
Sheet pan pizza pairs beautifully with various sides. Consider serving it with:
- A fresh garden salad with vinaigrette
- Garlic knots or cheesy breadsticks
- A side of marinara sauce for dipping
- Soft drinks, iced tea, or any beverage of your choice
VARIATIONS
Feel free to change up the recipe to suit your tastes. Here are some fun variations:
- Cheesy Veggie Pizza: Use a mix of colorful vegetables like zucchini, spinach, and mushrooms for a veggie-packed pizza.
- BBQ Chicken Pizza: Swap marinara sauce for BBQ sauce and add cooked chicken, red onions, and cilantro.
- Meat Lovers Pizza: Load up on different meats like sausage, bacon, and ham for a hearty option.
- Pesto Pizza: Use pesto instead of marinara sauce for a fresh, herbal flavor.
FAQs
-
Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, store-bought pizza dough works perfectly with this recipe. Just roll it out and follow the same steps. -
What toppings can I use?
You can use any toppings you like! Classic options include pepperoni, veggies, and olives. Get creative with your favorites. -
How do I know when the pizza is done?
The pizza is ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. You can also check the crust’s color to make sure it is baked through. -
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and toppings a day in advance. Store the dough in the fridge and assemble it just before baking.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Sheet Pan Pizza
If you want to save time, you can prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time. You can make the dough the day before and let it rise in the fridge. This method will also enhance the flavor. You can also chop your toppings in advance and store them in the fridge. When you are ready to cook, just roll out the dough, add the sauce and toppings, and bake. This way, you can easily enjoy homemade pizza without the hassle on busy days!
By following these steps, you will have a delicious sheet pan pizza that your family and friends will ask for again and again. Enjoy cooking and happy eating!
Sheet Pan Pizza
Ingredients
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. Mix these dry ingredients well.
- Gradually add warm water and olive oil, stirring until the mixture forms a rough dough.
- On a clean surface, knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
- If you like, line your sheet pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to remove excess air. Roll it out to fit the size of your baking sheet. If it is too elastic, let it rest for a few minutes before rolling again.
- After placing the dough on the sheet pan, spread the marinara sauce evenly over the surface.
- Then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Add your favorite toppings.
- Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Once baked, take the pizza out of the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into squares.