Sheet Pan Pizza Recipe

If you’re craving gooey cheese, crispy edges, and all the nostalgia of Friday nights, look no further than Sheet Pan Pizza. This recipe brings together everything we all love about classic pizza—with enough to share, and just the right balance of effort and reward. Thanks to a simple dough and a baking pan most of us have in the cabinet, you’ll transform humble ingredients into something truly irresistible. Whether it’s family dinner, an impromptu get-together, or just an “I deserve pizza” night, this Sheet Pan Pizza promises to deliver.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for Sheet Pan Pizza couldn’t be easier, and each one plays an important role. From a tender, golden crust to that melty, bubbling cheese, these basics combine to create pure pizza magic in every bite.

• All-purpose flour: The foundation of your crust, giving structure and a perfectly chewy texture.
• Sugar: Just a touch for flavor and to help the yeast do its best work.
• Instant yeast: For a speedy, reliable rise and airy dough.
• Salt: Brings out the flavor in every component—don’t skip it!
• Olive oil: Adds richness to the crust and greases the pan for a beautiful, golden finish.
• Warm water (110-115F): The perfect temp to activate your yeast without killing it.
• Pizza dough (store-bought or homemade): Either option works, so use what fits your schedule and cravings.
• Pizza sauce: Pick your favorite brand or homemade batch for the sauciest results.
• Mozzarella cheese: For stretchy, melty perfection atop every slice.
• Pepperoni: Classic and crowd-pleasing, but feel free to swap in other toppings you love.
• Parmesan cheese (optional): A finishing sprinkle adds nutty flavor and extra flair.

How to Make Sheet Pan Pizza

Step 1: Whisk Together Dry Ingredients

Start by getting a large mixing bowl and whisking together the all-purpose flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt. This dry blend creates the foundation of your crust and ensures everything mixes evenly once you add your liquids.

Step 2: Mix in Wet Ingredients

Pour in the olive oil and warm water, mixing until the dough starts coming together into a shaggy ball. Don’t worry if it’s a little messy at this stage; it’ll smooth out as you knead.

Step 3: Knead and Let Rise

If you have a stand mixer with a dough hook, use it to knead the dough for about 3 minutes until smooth and elastic. Otherwise, turn your dough out onto a floured surface and knead it by hand for about 5 minutes, sprinkling on a little more flour if it feels too sticky. Cover your dough and let it rise for 15 minutes; this is when that instant yeast works its magic.

Step 4: Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 450F and generously oil a quarter sheet pan (about 13 by 9 inches). Make sure you get into every corner; this helps the crust get super crispy and prevents sticking.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Place your dough on the greased pan and gently stretch it out to the edges. If the dough resists or shrinks back, let it rest for about 5 minutes before stretching again. This little pause relaxes the gluten for easy shaping.

Step 6: Add Sauce, Cheese, and Toppings

Spread a generous layer of pizza sauce over your crust, then shower it with mozzarella cheese. Arrange your pepperoni slices evenly, and if you’re feeling fancy, get creative with extra toppings. The Sheet Pan Pizza canvas is yours!

Step 7: Bake and Finish

Slide your pan into the hot oven and bake for 11 to 13 minutes. You’re looking for golden edges and cheese that bubbles and browns in just the right spots. Let the pizza cool for five minutes, then top with a shower of Parmesan if desired, slice it up, and get ready for oohs and aahs!

How to Serve Sheet Pan Pizza

Garnishes

Finish your Sheet Pan Pizza with a flourished sprinkle of fresh basil, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of good olive oil. Each garnish brings out a new dimension of flavor and really makes every bite pop.

Side Dishes

Pair your pizza with a fresh green salad tossed in a simple vinaigrette, some roasted or steamed veggies, or maybe a bowl of minestrone soup. The crisp, vibrant sides balance the richness of the pizza and tie the meal together beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Slicing your Sheet Pan Pizza into big rectangles for a rustic, family style spread turns any dinner into a party. Try serving smaller square bites if you’re feeding a crowd or hosting game night. If you want to go all in, offer a little toppings bar and let everyone customize their own slice!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep extra slices of Sheet Pan Pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even more, and a quick reheat makes for a super satisfying lunch or snack.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, let the pizza cool completely, then wrap the slices tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil, or place in a freezer-safe container. Sheet Pan Pizza freezes well for up to 2 months—perfect for busy nights!

Reheating

For best results, reheat your pizza slices in a 375F oven for 7-10 minutes, directly on the rack or a hot baking sheet. This restores the crust’s crispiness and keeps the cheese gooey. A toaster oven also works wonders for that just-baked taste and texture.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought dough for Sheet Pan Pizza?

Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough is a fantastic shortcut, especially if you’re short on time. Let it come to room temp before stretching for best results.

Can I make this pizza gluten free?

Yes—just substitute a trusted gluten-free flour blend, or use a ready-made gluten-free dough. Keep an eye on texture as GF doughs can vary, but the rest of the recipe stays the same.

What other toppings can I add?

Get creative! Try cooked sausage, sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, olives—anything you love works on Sheet Pan Pizza. Just don’t overload so the crust has a chance to crisp up.

Do I have to let the dough rise for 15 minutes?

That quick rise gives the dough a bit of lift and avoids a dense crust. While you can get away with less in a pinch, those few minutes make a big difference for fluffiness and flavor.

Can I use a different size pan?

You can! Simply adjust the quantity of dough or toppings to fit a larger or smaller sheet pan. Keep an eye on baking time—a thinner crust cooks faster, so check doneness as you go.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, Sheet Pan Pizza really can’t be beat. Rolling up your sleeves for this homemade classic pays off in every amazing bite. So gather your favorite people—and your favorite toppings—and make tonight a Sheet Pan Pizza night!

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