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Pan Pizza

Pan Pizza
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Pan Pizza features a thick, crispy golden crust baked in a deep pan, topped with gooey mozzarella cheese and customizable vibrant toppings. This comforting, family-friendly recipe delivers warm, hearty slices perfect for cozy nights, combining a satisfying crunch with melty indulgence and endless variations to suit all tastes.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for variation)
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
  • 1 cup warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for greasing pan)
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Sauce and Cheese

  • ½ cup tomato sauce (classic or spicy with chili flakes)
  • 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese (or vegan cheese alternative)

Toppings (Customizable)

  • Your choice of vegetables, meats, or herbs such as bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, pepperoni, basil, oregano, etc.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Start by activating the yeast in warm water, dissolving it thoroughly. Mix the yeast mixture with flour, olive oil, and salt to form a soft dough. Knead until smooth and elastic, then place in a warm spot and let rise until doubled in size, about 1 to 1½ hours.
  2. Shape the Dough in a Pan: Generously grease a deep-dish or cast iron pan with olive oil. Press the risen dough evenly across the bottom and slightly up the sides of the pan to create a thick crust edge.
  3. Add Sauce and Toppings: Spread a generous layer of tomato sauce evenly over the dough base. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, then add your chosen toppings ensuring not to overload to keep the crust crispy.
  4. Bake Until Golden: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Bake the pizza for 15 to 20 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown and crispy, and the cheese bubbles with a slight golden hue.
  5. Cool and Slice: Remove the pizza from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes. This helps the cheese to set slightly and the crust maintain its crisp texture before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Use a cast iron or heavy pan for even heat distribution and optimal crust crispiness.
  • Don’t skip olive oil—it’s key for that golden, crunchy base.
  • Letting the dough rest longer improves flavor and elasticity.
  • Keep toppings light to avoid soggy crust.
  • For extra brownness, briefly broil the pizza at the end of baking.
  • Prepare dough a day ahead and refrigerate for enhanced flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: pan pizza, crispy crust pizza, homemade pizza, deep dish pizza, comfort food, mozzarella pizza, family dinner, customizable pizza

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/pan-pizza/