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Crispy Cast Iron Pan Pizza

crispy cast iron pan pizza - featured image

A quick and easy homemade pizza recipe using a cast iron skillet to achieve a perfectly crispy crust and melty cheese, ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon instant yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ¾ cup (180ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ cup tomato sauce
  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (170g)
  • Fresh basil leaves (optional)
  • ¼ cup pepperoni slices or favorite cured meat (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon instant yeast, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Stir until evenly mixed.
  2. Slowly pour in ¾ cup (180ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C) and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Mix with a wooden spoon or dough hook until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic. If sticky, sprinkle a little flour but don’t overdo it.
  4. Place the dough back in the bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rest in a warm spot for 20-30 minutes until doubled in size.
  5. While the dough rises, heat your cast iron skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes until hot but not smoking.
  6. Punch down the dough and stretch or roll it into a 10-inch circle, slightly smaller than your skillet.
  7. Add a teaspoon of olive oil to the hot skillet, then carefully place the dough in. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the bottom turns golden brown and crispy (lift the edge to peek).
  8. Spread ½ cup tomato sauce evenly over the crust, sprinkle 1½ cups shredded mozzarella, arrange pepperoni if using, and add a sprinkle of Parmesan.
  9. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 450°F (230°C). Bake for 7-10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and edges are browned.
  10. Remove from oven, let cool for a minute, scatter fresh basil on top, and slice right in the pan.

Notes

Preheat the skillet well to get a crispy crust. Avoid poking or pressing the dough while cooking to allow natural crust formation. Use olive oil around crust edges before baking for extra crispiness. Keep cast iron seasoned and dry to prevent rust. If skillet is not oven-safe, finish pizza under broiler carefully.

Nutrition

Keywords: cast iron pizza, homemade pizza, crispy pizza, easy pizza recipe, quick pizza, pan pizza, comfort food