Ultimate Foolproof Pan Pizza Recipe

Craving a thick, crispy-bottomed pizza with a pillowy soft crust and gooey cheese? Look no further than this foolproof pan pizza recipe! With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you’ll be enjoying restaurant-quality pizza right from your own kitchen.

There’s something magical about biting into a perfectly cooked pan pizza. The satisfying crunch of the golden-brown crust gives way to a chewy interior, all topped with bubbling cheese and your favorite toppings. This easy recipe will have you mastering the art of pan pizza in no time!

Our no-knead dough method takes the hassle out of pizza making. Just mix, let it rest overnight, and you’re halfway to pizza perfection. The cast iron skillet does the heavy lifting, creating that signature crispy bottom we all crave. Get ready for a pizza experience that will rival your childhood favorites!

Why You’ll Love This Pan Pizza

• No kneading required – let time do the work for you
• Crispy, golden bottom with a soft, airy interior
• Customizable with your favorite toppings
• Perfect for beginners and seasoned pizza makers alike
• Makes enough for two 10-inch pizzas

The Secret to Perfect Pan Pizza

The magic of this recipe lies in three key factors:

1. No-knead dough: By letting the dough rest overnight, enzymes break down proteins, creating a strong gluten network without any effort on your part.
2. High hydration: A wetter dough leads to a more open, airy crumb structure.
3. Cast iron cooking: The heat retention of cast iron creates that irresistible crispy bottom.

Ingredients

• 400g bread flour (14 ounces; about 2 1/2 cups), plus more for dusting
• 10g kosher salt (0.35 ounces; about 2 teaspoons), plus more for sprinkling
• 4g instant yeast (0.15 ounces; about 1 teaspoon), such as SAF Instant Yeast
• 275g water (9.5 ounces; about 1 cup plus 3 tablespoons)
• 8g extra-virgin olive oil (0.25 ounces; about 2 teaspoons), plus more to coat pans and for drizzling
• 1 1/2 cups pizza sauce
• 12 ounces grated full-fat, low moisture (dry) mozzarella cheese
• Toppings as desired
• Small handful torn fresh basil leaves (optional)
• 2 ounces grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese (optional)

Directions

1. Mix the Dough

   In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, yeast, water, and oil. Mix until no dry flour remains. The bowl should be 4-6 times larger than the dough to allow for rising.

2. Let it Rest

   Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap. Let the dough rest at room temperature (no warmer than 75°F) for 8-24 hours. The dough will rise dramatically and fill the bowl.

3. Shape the Dough

   Lightly flour the top of the dough and transfer to a well-floured surface. Divide into two pieces and form each into a tight ball.

4. Prep the Pans

   Pour 1-2 tablespoons of oil into two 10-inch cast iron skillets or round cake pans. Place a dough ball in each, turning to coat with oil. Press the dough to the edges of the pan.

5. Second Rise

   Cover the pans tightly with plastic wrap and let sit at room temperature for 2 hours. After the first hour, preheat your oven to 550°F (290°C).

6. Final Shaping

   Press the dough to fill in any corners, popping large bubbles. Lift the edges to release any trapped air underneath.

7. Top It Off

   Spread 3/4 cup sauce on each pizza, going right to the edge. Sprinkle with mozzarella and add your chosen toppings. Drizzle with olive oil and add basil if desired.

8. Bake to Perfection

   Bake for 12-15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly, and the bottom is crisp. Sprinkle with Parmesan or Pecorino Romano if using.

9. Crisp It Up

   If the bottom needs more crisping, place the pan over medium heat on the stovetop for 1-3 minutes, moving the pan for even cooking.

10. Serve and Enjoy!

    Transfer to a cutting board, slice into 6 pieces per pizza, and dive in while it’s hot!

Pro Tips for Pan Pizza Perfection

• Use a digital scale for precise measurements
• Don’t rush the resting time – it’s key for developing flavor and texture
• Experiment with different cheeses and toppings to make it your own
• Preheat your oven thoroughly for the best crust

Nutritional Information