Cast Iron Skillet Pizza Night

There is nothing like a bubbling hot pizza made right in your own cast iron skillet Fresh from the oven with golden crisp edges and gooey cheese this skillet pizza is my go to choice for a weekend dinner or a quick prep meal that the whole family enjoys Each person can add their favorite toppings and dinner is ready in under half an hour with almost no planning

I first tried this when I wanted pizza but had no time for takeout Dough right from the can and a hot skillet is all you really need My kids love building their own pizzas and it feels like a treat every time

Ingredients

• Canned pizza crust: for effortless prep and a soft yet sturdy base Opt for a high quality brand for the best chew
• Pizza sauce: brings tangy flavor and moisture Look for one with few added sugars and real tomato taste
• Mozzarella cheese: shredded for melty stretch Check labels for whole milk mozzarella for that perfect pizza pull
• Olive oil: helps crisp up the crust and adds a hint of richness Use extra virgin if possible for better flavor
• Pepperoni slices: the classic topping Go for a brand that curls and browns nicely when baked
• Any extra toppings you like: like bell peppers mushrooms or olives Fresh vegetables brighten the bite so pick the firmest you can find

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Skillet:

Pour olive oil into the bottom of your cast iron skillet Make sure to coat the entire surface and a bit up the edges This prevents sticking and guarantees a golden crust

Shape the Dough:

Open the can of pizza dough Carefully stretch and press it into the skillet The dough should reach up the sides a bit and get well coated in oil This keeps the bottom crisp and helps the pizza hold its shape

Add the Sauce:

Spoon the pizza sauce onto the dough Spread it out to the edges for full coverage A back of a spoon works best for even distribution

Top with Cheese and Toppings:

Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce Then lay out your pepperoni slices and any extra toppings you like Every bite gets a balance of cheese and toppings

Bake the Pizza:

Slide the skillet into a preheated oven at four hundred twenty five degrees Bake for twenty to twenty five minutes The crust should be golden brown the cheese bubbly and toppings nicely cooked Keep an eye in the last minutes to avoid burning

Slice and Serve:

Remove skillet from oven and let the pizza cool slightly Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to slice into wedges Serve right from the skillet or transfer pieces to a serving platter

Save

The mozzarella cheese is always the biggest hit My family loves watching it bubble and brown in the oven One evening we all crowded around to see whose cheese would stretch the longest when pulling out a slice and it became a little tradition

Storage Tips

Leftover pizza keeps well in the fridge for up to three days Wrap slices in foil or an airtight container Reheat in the skillet for a few minutes or pop into the oven so the crust stays crisp Avoid microwaving for best results

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap in whole wheat or gluten free dough if needed Any favorite cheese works try cheddar or provolone if mozzarella is not on hand Vegetarian friends can load up with veggies and skip the pepperoni The sauce can even be swapped for pesto or a favorite barbecue sauce for a twist

Serving Suggestions

Pair slices with a simple mixed green salad or roasted vegetables for a fuller meal Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or Italian herbs on top for extra punch Serving right from the skillet keeps everything warm at the table and adds rustic flair

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The Cast Iron Connection

The cast iron skillet is key to this pizza The way it concentrates heat gives you that crispy golden base without a pizza stone My grandmother used a cast iron pan for everything and this method always reminds me of her kitchen Her pans were well seasoned and every pizza turned out with perfect edges

Recipe FAQs

→ How do you prevent the dough from sticking to the skillet?

Coat the skillet thoroughly with olive oil before adding the pizza dough. This prevents sticking and gives a crisp bottom.

→ Can I use homemade dough instead of canned?

Yes, homemade pizza dough works perfectly. Just ensure it’s stretched to fit the skillet shape before adding toppings.

→ What other cheese works besides mozzarella?

Try provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses for different flavors and melt textures.

→ Tips for a crispier crust?

Bake at a high temperature and don’t overload the sauce. Preheating the skillet in the oven before adding dough can also help.

→ How do I customize toppings for this method?

Add veggies, extra meats, or fresh herbs before baking. Just be careful not to overload the crust to avoid sogginess.