Sheet Pan Pizza + Quick Homemade Dough Recipe

If you’re craving a delicious homemade pizza that's both easy and fun to make, you've come to the right place. Our Sheet Pan Pizza recipe with quick homemade dough offers a delightful combination of crisp crust, flavorful toppings, and gooey cheese. This guide will walk you through the entire process, ensuring your pizza turns out perfect every time. Read on to learn how to create this culinary masterpiece!

What is a Sheet Pan Pizza?

A Sheet Pan Pizza is a rectangular pizza baked in a sheet pan, resulting in a thick, crisp crust with plenty of room for your favorite toppings. It's perfect for feeding a crowd or making a family-friendly dinner. The homemade dough is quick and easy, requiring minimal ingredients and time.

Ingredients List for Sheet Pan Pizza

To create the perfect Sheet Pan Pizza, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Quick Homemade Dough:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 ¼ cups warm water (110°F)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Pizza Toppings:

• 1 ½ cups pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Your choice of toppings (pepperoni, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, olives, etc.)
• Fresh basil or oregano (optional)

Ingredients List for Toppings and Sides

To enhance your Sheet Pan Pizza experience, consider these additional toppings and sides:

• Fresh arugula
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Garlic dipping sauce
• Caesar salad
• Breadsticks

Substitutions and Variations

Cooking should be an enjoyable and flexible experience. Here are some substitutions and variations for your Sheet Pan Pizza:

• Flour: Use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour for a healthier or gluten-free option.
• Cheese: Try different cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or feta for a unique flavor profile.
• Sauce: Substitute pizza sauce with pesto, Alfredo sauce, or a simple garlic and olive oil base.
• Toppings: Experiment with different toppings such as sausage, pineapple, spinach, artichokes, or even BBQ chicken.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Quick Homemade Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dough: Add olive oil, salt, and 3 ½ cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add more flour if necessary.
4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

Assembling the Pizza:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
2. Prepare the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to fit your sheet pan (usually about 18x13 inches).
3. Transfer to the Pan: Lightly oil your sheet pan and place the rolled-out dough onto it, stretching it to fit the edges.
4. Add the Sauce and Toppings: Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then add your desired toppings.
5. Bake the Pizza: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.

How to Cook Sheet Pan Pizza: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Activate the Yeast: Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit until frothy.
2. Make the Dough: Mix in olive oil, salt, and flour until a dough forms. Knead until smooth.
3. Let It Rise: Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise until doubled in size.
4. Preheat and Roll Out: Preheat oven to 475°F. Roll out the dough to fit the sheet pan.
5. Assemble: Oil the sheet pan, place the dough, add sauce, cheese, and toppings.
6. Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Letting the Dough Rise Enough: Ensure the dough doubles in size for a light and airy crust.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure water is warm and ingredients are at room temperature for proper yeast activation.
• Overloading with Toppings: Too many toppings can make the pizza soggy. Keep it balanced.
• Baking at the Wrong Temperature: Ensure the oven is fully preheated to 475°F for a crisp crust.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A great meal is not only about taste but also about presentation. Here are some tips to make your Sheet Pan Pizza look as good as it tastes:

• Slice Evenly: Use a pizza cutter for clean, even slices.
• Garnish: Add fresh basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan just before serving.
• Serve with Sides: Pair with a Caesar salad or garlic breadsticks for a complete meal.

How to Serve Sheet Pan Pizza

• Family Style: Place the pizza on a large wooden board or directly on the sheet pan for a rustic, communal feel.
• With Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces like garlic butter, ranch, or marinara.
• Accompanied by Sides: Serve with a fresh salad, breadsticks, or even some roasted vegetables.

Presentation Ideas for Sheet Pan Pizza

• Rustic Platter: Serve the pizza on a large wooden board for a cozy, homey feel.
• Individual Portions: For a party, consider cutting the pizza into smaller squares and serving on a large platter.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Sheet Pan Pizza Recipe Tips

• Prep Ahead: You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
• Leftovers: Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat pizza in a hot oven or toaster oven to maintain the crust's crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
A: Yes, you can substitute instant yeast in equal amounts. No need to activate it; just mix it with the flour.

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours after the first rise.

Q: Can I freeze the dough?
A: Yes, you can freeze the dough. After the first rise, divide it into portions, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Q: What if I don’t have a sheet pan?
A: You can use a large baking sheet or divide the dough between two smaller pans.

Q: How can I make the crust crispier?
A: Pre-bake the crust for 5-7 minutes before adding the toppings to ensure a crispier bottom.

Conclusion

There you have it, the ultimate guide to making a delicious Sheet Pan Pizza with quick homemade dough. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prepping. The combination of a crisp crust, flavorful sauce, and your favorite toppings makes this pizza a hit every time. Happy cooking and enjoy every bite!

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