Name: Lunch Lady Sheet Pan Pizza
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 17 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 ½ cups bread flour; 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 ½ tsp kosher salt; 1 tsp granulated sugar; 1 (1/4 oz) packet instant yeast; Cooking spray; 1 Tbsp cornmeal; 1 cup pizza sauce; 1 lb shredded low moisture mozzarella; 24 thin slices pepperoni; 1 tsp Italian seasoning

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Lunch Lady Sheet Pan Pizza is the embodiment of comfort food that takes us back to school days filled with cherished memories and carefree laughter. This delightful dish is filled with gooey cheese, zesty sauce, and all your favorite toppings, making it an irresistible meal for families and pizza lovers alike.

Easy to prepare and fun to make, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. With its easy, step-by-step process, you’ll be able to whip up this nostalgic treat that is sure to please both kids and adults.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lunch Lady Sheet Pan Pizza shines with simplicity and ease, making it a favorite for home cooks of all skill levels. With minimal ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that caters to the cravings of everyone at the table. This recipe offers quick prep and cooking time, optimizing your time in the kitchen while maximizing taste and satisfaction. Whether you’re having a movie night, a gathering of friends, or simply need a comforting meal for the family, this sheet pan pizza is a hit every time. Its crowd-pleasing nature ensures that everyone will leave the table happy and satisfied.

Ingredients

4 ½ cups bread flour: High in gluten, allowing for a magnificent rise and a chewy, satisfying crust.
2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Adds a rich, fruity flavor and helps create a golden-brown crust.
2 ½ tsp kosher salt: Balances flavors and enhances the overall taste of the dough.
1 tsp granulated sugar: Just a hint of sweetness that balances the savory ingredients.
1 (1/4 oz) packet instant yeast: Helps the dough to rise quickly, making preparation simple and efficient.
Cooking spray: Ensures the dough doesn’t stick and aids in an easy transfer.
1 Tbsp cornmeal: Adds a delightful crunch to the crust while preventing sticking.
1 cup pizza sauce: Tangy, savory, and the perfect base for all the toppings.
1 lb shredded low moisture mozzarella: Creamy, melty goodness that envelops each slice.
24 thin slices pepperoni: Juicy and spicy, adding a classic pizza flavor.
1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings warmth and aroma to the dish.

Step-by-Step Directions

Prepare the Oven and Dough: Begin by arranging a rack in the lower third of your oven and preheating it to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
Mix the Ingredients: In the large bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine the bread flour, olive oil, kosher salt, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and 1 ⅓ cups of warm water. Beat on medium speed until the dough becomes smooth and elastic, about 8 to 10 minutes.
Let the Dough Rise: Spray a large bowl with cooking spray and transfer the dough into it. Cover with plastic wrap and allow it to sit at room temperature until it’s slightly puffed, approximately 15 minutes.
Shape the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, turn out the dough and roll it into an 18″ x 13″ rectangle.
Prepare the Sheet Pan: Sprinkle an 18″ x 13″ baking sheet with cornmeal. Carefully transfer the rolled dough onto the prepared sheet, ensuring it fills the bottom.
Add the Toppings: Spread the pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a ½” border. Top it generously with shredded mozzarella, followed by the pepperoni slices, and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
Bake: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake until the edges begin to brown and the cheese has melted, typically around 15 to 17 minutes.

Tips & Tricks

For those wanting to elevate this dish further, consider adding various toppings such as vegetables, cooked sausage, or different types of cheese for a unique twist. Pre-cooking any raw toppings can prevent excess moisture from making the dough soggy. Ensure your dough is kneaded well to achieve a perfect texture. If you prefer a thicker crust, let the dough rise for a little longer before shaping it.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Serve your Lunch Lady Sheet Pan Pizza hot from the oven, sliced into squares for easy sharing. Pair it with a classic Caesar salad for a refreshing contrast or garlic bread for an extra indulgence. For a festive touch, why not enjoy it with a cold beverage during game days or family gatherings?

Nutritional Information

Each slice of Lunch Lady Sheet Pan Pizza is approximately 280 calories, filled with protein from the cheese and a touch of vitamins from the sauce. While indulgent, it’s essential to enjoy this scrumptious meal in moderation. Consider adding some fresh veggies on the side to balance your meal.

Storing Tips & Variations

To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for that crispy crust. For long-term storage, freeze slices on a baking sheet for a couple of hours, then transfer them to a freezer bag where they can be kept for up to 3 months. Variations include using barbecue sauce as a base for a barbecue chicken pizza or transforming the dish into a vegetarian delight by adding mushrooms, peppers, and olives.

Conclusion

Try making Lunch Lady Sheet Pan Pizza and rediscover the joy of a satisfying homemade meal. Celebrate those nostalgic flavors while creating new memories with your loved ones. Don’t forget to share your experience and any personal twists you put on this beloved recipe!

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.

2. Is there a gluten-free option?
Absolutely. Substitute the bread flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking, but ensure that it contains xanthan gum for the best results.

3. What can I use if I don’t have a stand mixer?
You can easily mix and knead the dough by hand. It will take a bit more effort, but it’s entirely doable!

4. How can I make it more flavorful?
For a punch of flavor, you can add garlic powder, crushed red pepper, or more Italian herbs into the dough itself. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top before baking can also add to the taste.

5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Certainly! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or even feta based on your preference. Each type will give a unique twist to your sheet pan pizza!