Sheet Pan Pizza Recipe

If you’re craving a homemade pizza that’s both delightful and fuss-free, let me introduce you to the magic of the Sheet Pan Pizza. This simple recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a deliciously crispy, cheesy, and vibrant meal all baked on a single pan. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers, delivering that classic pizzeria feeling with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Once you try this, I promise the Sheet Pan Pizza will become your go-to for quick, comforting dinners that also impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to crafting the perfect Sheet Pan Pizza. Each component plays a special role in achieving the ideal balance of flavor, texture, and color that makes this dish irresistible.

• ½ pound pizza dough: The foundation of your pizza, providing that chewy yet crispy crust everyone loves.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided): Adds a fragrant richness and helps create a golden crust with a lovely crispness.
• ½ cup pizza sauce: Brings tangy, herbaceous notes that complement the cheese and toppings perfectly.
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, creamy goodness that blankets the pizza in comfort.
• 4-5 cherry tomatoes (sliced): Offer juicy bursts of sweetness and add a pop of bright color.
• ½ cup fresh basil (chopped, plus more for serving): Infuses the pizza with fresh, aromatic flavors that elevate the whole experience.

How to Make Sheet Pan Pizza

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by letting your pizza dough rest covered at room temperature for about 20 minutes. This helps it relax so it stretches easily without snapping back. Then roll it out into a rough 9 x 13 inch rectangle—just about the size of your sheet pan. This makes spreading toppings and baking uniform and convenient.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Turn your oven up to a scorching 500°F and slide your rack into the upper third. The intense heat and positioning ensure your crust browns beautifully while the cheese bubbles perfectly without burning.

Step 3: Assemble on the Sheet Pan

Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil directly on your sheet pan and use your fingers to gently press the dough onto the surface, coating it evenly. Next, drizzle the remaining olive oil over the dough for extra flavor and crisp texture. Spread a generous layer of your pizza sauce over the dough, then sprinkle on the mozzarella. Finish by scattering the sliced cherry tomatoes and chopped fresh basil evenly on top.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye out for a golden crust and melted, slightly bubbly cheese. Once done, remove it from the oven and add a few more fresh basil leaves along with a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. That’s it—the magic moment where all your simple efforts come together in a mouthwatering masterpiece.

How to Serve Sheet Pan Pizza

Garnishes

Adding fresh toppings after baking makes a huge difference. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves to bring an herbal brightness and a splash of color. A light dusting of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil can elevate each bite with an extra layer of flavor and a little excitement.

Side Dishes

The beauty of the Sheet Pan Pizza is it pairs wonderfully with so many sides. A crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds balance, while roasted vegetables complement the savory notes. For something fun, serve with a bowl of garlic knots or seasoned breadsticks to keep the carb party going.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual family dinner or a friendly gathering, cut the pizza into squares or rectangles right on the pan for easy sharing. You can also arrange small bowls of extra toppings and let everyone customize their slices. Another fun idea is to serve alongside a build-your-own salad bar to create a colorful, hands-on meal experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Sheet Pan Pizza, wrap the slices tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it will stay fresh and flavorful for about 3 to 4 days, making for a delicious next-day lunch or snack.

Freezing

You can freeze the pizza slices for longer storage. Place individual slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment and freeze until solid, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag or container. Frozen Sheet Pan Pizza will keep well for up to 2 months and thaw quickly when you’re ready to indulge.

Reheating

The best way to reheat your Sheet Pan Pizza is in a hot oven or toaster oven at 350°F for about 8 to 10 minutes, which crisps up the crust beautifully while melting the cheese again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crust soggy and chewy.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! Store-bought dough works perfectly for Sheet Pan Pizza, making this recipe quick and accessible without sacrificing taste or texture.

What else can I add as toppings?

The charm of Sheet Pan Pizza is that it’s endlessly customizable. Feel free to add sliced olives, bell peppers, mushrooms, pepperoni, or even crumbled sausage to suit your cravings.

My pizza dough shrank when I rolled it out. How can I prevent that?

Letting the dough rest at room temperature for 20 minutes before rolling helps relax the gluten and makes stretching easier, reducing shrinkage. Also, avoid rolling it too thin if you want a thicker crust.

Can I make this pizza gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free pizza dough mix or pre-made gluten-free dough base. Keep in mind baking times might vary slightly, so watch the pizza closely to achieve the ideal crust.

Is it okay to use a different cheese than mozzarella?

Definitely! While mozzarella is classic for its melting quality, you can experiment with provolone, fontina, or even a sprinkle of parmesan for an extra flavor punch in your Sheet Pan Pizza.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so wonderfully satisfying about pulling a hot, bubbly Sheet Pan Pizza fresh from the oven and sharing it with loved ones. It’s a recipe that combines simplicity with a flair of homemade comfort, perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try—you might just find a new family favorite that’s both easy to make and hard to resist!

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