Sheet Pan Pizza

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sheet pan pizza recipe combines convenience with homemade flavor. The quick pizza dough comes together fast, and baking it on a sheet pan means you get a crispy, evenly cooked crust every time without needing special equipment. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings, making it great for families or entertaining. Whether you use homemade dough or store-bought, this pizza is always a hit.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Quick Pizza Dough (1.2 pounds)

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for kneading
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup warm water (around 110-115°F)

Sheet Pan Pizza

• 1 – 1.2 pounds pizza dough (store bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ⅔ cup pizza sauce
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese
• 4 oz pepperoni
• Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)

Directions

1. Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Add olive oil and warm water. Stir until a dough forms.
2. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
3. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch sheet pan with olive oil.
4. Prepare the Dough on the Pan: Punch down the dough and transfer it to the prepared sheet pan. Using your hands, stretch and press the dough evenly to fill the pan. Drizzle olive oil over the top.
5. Add Toppings: Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and arrange pepperoni slices on top. Add parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, slice, and serve warm.

Servings and timing

• Makes 8 slices
• Preparation time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour rising time)
• Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
• Total time: about 1 hour 35 minutes

Variations

• Use different toppings like mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, or sausage.
• Swap mozzarella for a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a sharper flavor.
• Add fresh basil or arugula on top after baking for a fresh twist.
• Use whole wheat flour for a heartier crust.
• Make it vegetarian by skipping pepperoni and adding extra veggies.

storage/reheating

Store leftover pizza in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in a skillet over medium heat or in a 375°F oven for 8-10 minutes to keep the crust crispy. Avoid microwaving if possible to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pizza dough for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought dough works perfectly and saves prep time. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before stretching.

How thick should I make the dough on the sheet pan?

Stretch the dough evenly to about ¼ to ½ inch thick for a balanced crust—crispy edges with a soft interior.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, dough can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight. Bring to room temperature before shaping and baking.

What if I don’t have instant yeast?

You can use active dry yeast but proof it first in warm water with sugar before mixing with dry ingredients.

Can I freeze leftover pizza?

Yes, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

What other cheeses can I use besides mozzarella?

Provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses work well as alternatives or additions.

Can I use gluten-free flour to make the dough?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend designed for yeast breads, but texture may vary slightly.

How do I make the crust extra crispy?

Bake the pizza on a preheated baking sheet or pizza stone and avoid adding too much sauce.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply double the dough ingredients and use two sheet pans or a larger pan.

Conclusion

Sheet Pan Pizza is an easy, approachable way to make homemade pizza with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. The quick dough yields a crispy, tender crust, while classic toppings like mozzarella and pepperoni satisfy pizza cravings any night of the week. Whether you stick to the basics or customize with your favorite ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a go-to for simple, delicious meals.

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