Cheese Sheet Pan Pizza: The Ultimate Easy Recipe for a Delicious Family Meal

Cheese Sheet Pan Pizza is a delightful dish that brings the joy of pizza-making right to your kitchen with minimal fuss. Imagine biting into a perfectly baked, golden crust topped with a generous layer of gooey, melted cheese that stretches with every slice. This recipe not only satisfies your cravings but also offers a fun and interactive way to enjoy pizza night with family and friends.

Originating from the bustling pizzerias of Italy, sheet pan pizza has gained popularity for its convenience and versatility. It allows for a larger surface area, making it perfect for gatherings or simply indulging in a hearty meal. People love Cheese Sheet Pan Pizza for its crispy edges and soft, chewy center, creating a delightful contrast in every bite. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize with your favorite toppings, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Join me as we dive into this cheesy, comforting dish that is sure to become a staple in your home!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Optional toppings: pepperoni, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, olives, etc.

Preparing the Dough

1. **Activate the Yeast**: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means your yeast is active and ready to go! 2. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, oregano, and garlic powder. This will ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the dough. 3. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**: Once the yeast mixture is frothy, pour it into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Add the olive oil as well. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until a shaggy dough forms. 4. **Knead the Dough**: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed. 5. **First Rise**: Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Preparing the Sheet Pan

6. **Preheat the Oven**: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). This high temperature will help achieve a crispy crust. 7. **Prepare the Sheet Pan**: Grease a large sheet pan (about 18×13 inches) with olive oil. Make sure to cover the entire surface to prevent sticking and to help the crust crisp up nicely.

Shaping the Dough

8. **Shape the Dough**: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to the greased sheet pan. Using your fingers, gently stretch and press the dough to fit the pan. If the dough is resistant, let it rest for a few minutes before continuing to stretch it. 9. **Create a Crust**: Once the dough is evenly spread out, use your fingers to create a slight ridge around the edges of the dough. This will help hold in the sauce and toppings.

Assembling the Pizza

10. **Add the Sauce**: Spoon the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving the edges clear for the crust. Use the back of a spoon to spread it out evenly. 11. **Layer the Cheese**: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce. Make sure to cover the entire surface for that gooey, cheesy goodness. 12. **Add Parmesan and Seasoning**: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella. This adds a nice flavor and a bit of a crunchy texture. You can also sprinkle a little extra oregano or garlic powder on top for added flavor. 13. **Add Optional Toppings**: If you’re using any additional toppings like pepperoni, bell peppers, or mushrooms, now is the time to add them. Distribute them evenly across the pizza.

Cooking the Pizza

14. **Bake the Pizza**: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the crust is crispy. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning. 15. **Check for Doneness**: After 15 minutes, check the pizza. If the cheese is melted and the crust is golden, it’s ready. If not, give it a few more minutes, but be careful not to overbake.

Serving the Pizza

16. **Cool Slightly**: Once the pizza is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This will make it easier to slice and serve. 17. **Slice and Serve**: Using a

Conclusion:

In summary, this Cheese Sheet Pan Pizza is an absolute must-try for anyone who loves a delicious, cheesy, and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. The combination of a crispy crust, gooey cheese, and your favorite toppings makes it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, game nights, or casual get-togethers with friends. Plus, the beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; you can easily customize it with various toppings like pepperoni, veggies, or even a drizzle of pesto for an extra flavor kick. I highly recommend serving it with a fresh side salad or some garlic bread to round out the meal. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different types of cheese or even a gluten-free crust to suit your dietary preferences. I can’t wait for you to try this Cheese Sheet Pan Pizza! I’d love to hear about your experience, so don’t forget to share your thoughts and any creative twists you put on the recipe. Happy cooking! Print