Sheet Pan Pizza: A Family Favorite Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sheet Pan Pizza is a delightful twist on traditional pizza, offering a thick, chewy crust with crispy edges and a generous layer of toppings. This homemade version is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for family dinners, parties, or casual gatherings. The best part? You can customize it with your favorite toppings, ensuring everyone gets a slice they love.

Ingredients

• 2 packages (4-½ teaspoons) active dry yeast

• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

• 2 cups warm water

• 4 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour

• 1 tablespoon garlic salt

• ½ cup olive oil, divided

• 1 cup pizza sauce

• 40–45 pepperonis

• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• Italian seasoning

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

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Coat a 17×12-inch sheet pan with ¼ cup of olive oil and set aside.

3. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the yeast and sugar with the warm water. Allow to proof for about 10 minutes.

4. Add the flour and garlic salt to the yeast mixture. Mix on low speed for a few minutes before slowly adding the remaining ¼ cup of olive oil. Continue mixing until a smooth ball forms, approximately 5 minutes.

5. Transfer the dough to the prepared sheet pan, pressing it out to fit the pan evenly. If the dough resists, let it rest for a few minutes before continuing.

6. Once the dough is stretched to the edges, spread the pizza sauce over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges.

7. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.

8. Arrange the pepperonis on top of the cheese.

9. Sprinkle Italian seasoning over the entire pizza.

10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

11. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8–10

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 20–25 minutes

• Total Time: 35–40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Replace pepperoni with a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and olives.

• Cheese Lovers: Incorporate additional cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or parmesan for a richer flavor profile.

• Spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or drizzle with hot honey before serving for an extra kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side.

FAQs

How can I make the crust crispier?

Ensure the sheet pan is well-oiled before adding the dough. This helps achieve a crispy bottom crust. Additionally, baking the pizza on the bottom rack of the oven can promote a crispier crust.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, you can substitute store-bought pizza dough for the homemade version. Allow it to come to room temperature before stretching it onto the sheet pan.

How do I prevent the crust from being soggy?

Avoid overloading the pizza with sauce and toppings. Use a slotted spoon to drain any excess moisture from vegetables before adding them to the pizza.

Can I freeze the pizza dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough after the first rise. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I add cheese under the sauce?

Yes, placing cheese directly on the dough before adding the sauce can help prevent a soggy crust and create a delightful cheese layer.

How do I know when the pizza is done?

The pizza is ready when the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly with slight browning.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or gouda to suit your taste preferences.

How do I prevent the dough from shrinking back when stretching?

If the dough is resistant, let it rest for 5–10 minutes to allow the gluten to relax, making it easier to stretch.

Can I make this pizza ahead of time?

You can prepare the dough and toppings ahead of time. Assemble the pizza and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Allow it to come to room temperature before baking.

Conclusion

This Sheet Pan Pizza recipe from The BakerMama offers a simple yet delicious way to enjoy homemade pizza. With its thick, chewy crust and customizable toppings, it's sure to become a family favorite. Whether you're feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe delivers satisfaction in every slice.

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