Sheet Pan Pizza

An incredibly simple and fast Sheet Pan Pizza recipe that’s perfect for weeknights. With a crispy crust and fresh toppings, it’s suitable for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even a movie night at home. The best part? You can customize it to your liking, making it a favorite for everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 10 minutes of prep time, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Crispy Crust: Bake your pizza on a sheet pan for an evenly cooked, crispy crust that’s hard to resist.
• Customizable Toppings: Use any toppings you love—make it your own with vegetables, meats, or different cheeses.
• Family-Friendly: Perfect for all ages; kids can help with assembling their favorite toppings.
• Perfect Portions: Serves four comfortably, making it great for sharing or leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious Sheet Pan Pizza.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Rolling pin (optional)
• Brush (for oiling the dough)
• Knife (for slicing tomatoes)
• Mixing bowl (if making dough)

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for creating that crisp crust throughout the pizza.
• Brush: Helps evenly coat the dough with olive oil for added flavor and crispiness.

Ingredients

For this simple and delightful Sheet Pan Pizza, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dough

• 0.5 pound pizza dough (refrigerated section or homemade)

For the Sauce and Toppings

• 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 0.5 cup pizza sauce (favorite jarred or homemade)
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
• 4 cherry tomatoes (sliced)
• 0.5 cup fresh basil (chopped, plus more for serving)

How to Make Sheet Pan Pizza

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature ensures your pizza cooks evenly and develops a nice golden color.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

• Lightly grease a rimmed baking sheet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
• This step prevents sticking and adds flavor to the crust.

Step 3: Shape the Dough

Gently stretch or roll out the pizza dough to fit the baking sheet. You want it nice and thin but not so thin that it tears.

Step 4: Oil the Dough

Brush the surface of the dough with another tablespoon of olive oil. This helps create a crispy texture when baked.

Step 5: Spread the Sauce

Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving about a ½-inch border around the edges to form a crust.

Step 6: Add Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Ensure even coverage for melty goodness in every bite.

Step 7: Top with Tomatoes

Arrange sliced cherry tomatoes on top of the cheese. Their freshness will brighten up each slice.

Step 8: Drizzle with Olive Oil

Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the entire pizza. This enhances flavor and promotes browning.

Step 9: Sprinkle Basil

Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the pizza before baking. It will infuse delightful aromas as it cooks.

Step 10: Bake

Bake for 12-18 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and cheese is bubbly. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!

Step 11: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with more fresh basil if desired, slice into pieces, and serve hot! Enjoy this delightful Sheet Pan Pizza with family or friends.

How to Serve Sheet Pan Pizza

Serving your Sheet Pan Pizza can be a delightful experience for family and friends. With its crispy crust and fresh toppings, this dish pairs well with various accompaniments and beverages.

Classic Pairing

• Garlic Bread: A crunchy side that complements the flavors of the pizza. It’s perfect for dipping into any leftover sauce.
• Caesar Salad: A fresh salad with romaine, croutons, and a creamy dressing adds a crisp contrast to the warm pizza.
• Vegetable Platter: Offer an assortment of fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers with hummus for a healthy crunch.

Family Style

• Buffalo Wings: Spicy chicken wings bring a kick that pairs well with the cheesy goodness of pizza.
• Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites filled with cheese and herbs make an excellent appetizer to share.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit mix can cleanse the palate between slices of pizza.

Casual Gatherings

• Chips and Salsa: An easy snack that adds a bit of zest while guests await their pizza.
• Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses, crackers, and fruits allows for a sophisticated touch while keeping it casual.

How to Perfect Sheet Pan Pizza

Creating the perfect Sheet Pan Pizza requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for a delicious outcome every time.

• Use Quality Dough: Choose fresh or high-quality refrigerated pizza dough for the best texture and flavor.
• Preheat Your Oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 425°F (220°C) for even baking and a crispy crust.
• Don’t Overload Toppings: Keep toppings light to prevent sogginess; too many toppings can weigh down the crust.
• Experiment with Cheese: Mix mozzarella with other cheeses like provolone or parmesan for added depth of flavor.
• Let It Rest Before Slicing: Allow your pizza to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps the cheese set slightly, making slicing easier.
• Add Fresh Herbs at the End: Sprinkle fresh basil or arugula on top after baking for vibrant color and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Sheet Pan Pizza

Pairing side dishes with your Sheet Pan Pizza enhances your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft knots brushed with garlic butter are perfect for dipping in marinara or enjoying on their own.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Zucchini Fries: Crispy baked zucchini fries offer a healthier alternative to traditional fries without sacrificing flavor.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the pizza toppings.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized complement the flavors of your pizza beautifully.
6. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges deliver that satisfying crunch alongside cheesy slices of pizza.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making sheet pan pizza can be easy, but there are common mistakes that can ruin your dish. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Skipping the Preheat: Always preheat your oven to ensure a crispy crust. If you skip this step, your pizza may turn out soggy.
• Using Too Much Sauce: Applying too much sauce can make the crust soggy. Stick to a thin, even layer for the best results.
• Overloading on Toppings: Adding too many toppings can make it hard for the pizza to cook evenly. Aim for a balanced amount of toppings for optimal cooking.
• Neglecting the Olive Oil: Forgetting to brush olive oil on the dough can result in a dry crust. Don’t skip this step for added flavor and crispiness.
• Not Checking the Baking Time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your pizza as it bakes. Remove it when the crust is golden brown and cheese is bubbly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover sheet pan pizza in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sheet Pan Pizza

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Sheet Pan Pizza

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 30-60 seconds, but this may make the crust softer.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a lid until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes for a crispy bottom.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making sheet pan pizza:

What is Sheet Pan Pizza?

Sheet pan pizza is a large pizza baked in a rimmed baking sheet, allowing for a crispy crust and plenty of toppings.

How do I get my crust crispy?

For a crispy crust, make sure you preheat your oven fully and brush olive oil on the dough before adding sauce and toppings.

Can I use whole wheat dough for my Sheet Pan Pizza?

Yes! Whole wheat dough is a great alternative that adds extra fiber while still providing delicious flavor.

What other toppings work well on Sheet Pan Pizza?

Feel free to customize with vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or even grilled chicken for added protein!

How long does it take to bake Sheet Pan Pizza?

It typically takes between 12-18 minutes at 425°F (220°C) depending on your oven and thickness of the crust.

Final Thoughts

This sheet pan pizza recipe offers simplicity without sacrificing flavor. With its crispy crust and fresh toppings, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Plus, you can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients! Give it a try!