Description
This easy-to-make Sheet Pan Pizza recipe delivers a delicious homemade pizza with a crisp crust and gooey melted cheese, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or casual gathering. Using simple ingredients like pizza dough, tomato sauce, cheese, and your choice of toppings, this recipe guides you through stretching the dough directly on a sheet pan, then baking it to perfection in your oven.
Ingredients
Pizza Base
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- 16 ounces raw pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
Toppings
- 1/2 cup prepared tomato sauce
- 2 cups shredded pizza cheese (blend of cheddar and mozzarella recommended)
- Assorted toppings such as pepperoni, peppers, tomatoes, sausage, and olives
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Add the olive oil to the sheet pan and spread it evenly to coat the surface, which helps prevent sticking and creates a crisp crust.
- Bring Dough to Room Temperature: If using fresh or refrigerated dough, allow it to rest for about 30 minutes at room temperature. This step makes it easier to stretch and shape the dough without it springing back.
- Stretch the Dough on Sheet Pan: Place the dough on the oiled sheet pan. Start stretching it out with your hands; once partially spread, flip the dough to coat the other side with oil. Continue stretching the dough to fit the pan as much as possible. If it resists, let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes and then continue stretching.
- Add Sauce, Cheese, and Toppings: Evenly spread the prepared tomato sauce over the stretched dough. Sprinkle the shredded cheese blend on top, followed by your choice of assorted toppings like pepperoni, peppers, tomatoes, sausage, and olives.
- Bake the Pizza: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Bake until the crust edges are risen and golden, and the cheese is melted and brown on top.
- Cool and Serve: Carefully remove the pizza from the sheet pan onto a cutting board while still hot. Let it cool for at least 5 minutes before slicing. Serve immediately and refrigerate any leftovers.
Notes
- Allowing the dough to rest when stretching prevents it from shrinking back and makes shaping easier.
- You can customize toppings according to your preference or dietary requirements.
- Use a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a balanced melt and flavor.
- Make sure the oven is fully preheated to 450°F for the best crust texture.
- Letting the pizza cool briefly before slicing helps prevent the cheese from sliding off.
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
