# Pan Pizza: A Homemade Treat
This **Pan Pizza** comes out with a crunchy golden crust, gooey mozzarella, and an abundance of flavorful pepperoni in each bite. Made in a cast-iron skillet, it’s a *quick homemade classic* that’s ideal for pizza night.
## Holly’s Recipe Highlights: Pan Pizza
**Taste**: Indulgent and cheesy with a buttery, crunchy crust, zesty pizza sauce, and flavorful pepperoni in every bite.
**Why Make It**: This cast-iron pan pizza is great for a hassle-free pizza night featuring a thick, crispy crust. It delivers all the taste of takeout, minus the inconvenience of a full sheet pan or delivery.
**Serving Suggestions**: Pair with a [classic Caesar salad](https://www.spendwithpennies.com/caesar-salad/), an [easy Italian salad](https://www.spendwithpennies.com/easy-italian-salad/), or your favorite vegetable side dish.
**Total Time**: 50 Mins
**Servings**: 4
**Cooking Method**: Baked
## Ingredient Notes for Pan Pizza
– **Pizza Dough**: For the finest pizza crust, use a 10 to 12-ounce ball of [homemade pizza dough](https://www.spendwithpennies.com/the-best-homemade-pizza-dough-recipe/) in a 10-inch skillet, allowing it to rest if it’s cold for easier stretching.
– **Oil**: Olive oil is key to achieving that golden, crispy, nearly fried pizza crust, so ensure you adequately coat the bottom and sides of your skillet.
– **Pizza Sauce**: Opt for a thicker [homemade pizza sauce](https://www.spendwithpennies.com/homemade-pizza-sauce/) to keep your crust crisp and prevent sogginess, applying just a light layer for perfect dough baking.
– **Cheese**: Low-moisture, shredded fresh mozzarella is ideal due to its superb melting quality and ability to prevent the pan pizza from becoming watery on top. Alternatively, you could use provolone or an Italian blend.
– **Pepperoni**: Pepperoni is a traditional topping that adds immense flavor, though you can omit it if you prefer a straightforward cheesy pan pizza.
– **Variations**:
– Feel free to substitute pepperoni with cooked sausage, mushrooms, olives, bell peppers, or jalapeños.
– Use pesto, white sauce, or crushed tomatoes in place of pizza sauce.
– Top it off with red pepper flakes, fresh basil, or [homemade Italian seasoning](https://www.spendwithpennies.com/homemade-italian-seasoning-recipe) for added flavor.
## How to Prepare a Pan Pizza
1. Stretch or roll the pizza dough and set it in an oiled skillet. Allow it to rise.
2. Spread the pizza sauce over the dough.
3. Add shredded mozzarella on top.
4. Follow with pepperoni and parmesan cheese, then bake.
### Tips for Perfect Pan Pizza
– **Keep the Dough Warm**: Allow the dough to rest in a warm environment or at room temperature so it relaxes and is easier to press into the skillet.
– **Allow the Dough to Rise**: If the dough continues to shrink back, let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes and press it again.
– **For Crispy Edges**: Sprinkle a bit of mozzarella closer to the edges of the pan.
– **Check the Bottom**: Use a spatula to examine near the end of baking. If the top is finished but the crust requires more color, an additional minute or two on the stovetop can help.
– **Let the Pizza Rest**: Allow it to rest for a couple of minutes before slicing so the cheese settles and the crust remains intact.
## Save Every Slice
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in a hot oven or air fryer to restore the crisp crust.
### Pizza Night Favorites
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