Description
A quick, budget-friendly deep dish pepperoni pizza made in a cast iron skillet. Features a crispy, chewy crust and gooey cheese, ready in about 30 minutes of active time.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 cup (240ml) warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil (for dough)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce
- 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 package (20-25 slices) pepperoni
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing pan)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour, salt, and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled.
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Place cast iron skillet in the oven to preheat.
- Grease the hot skillet with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- Punch down risen dough and roll into a 10-12 inch circle.
- Press dough into the hot skillet, ensuring it covers the bottom and goes up the sides.
- Spread tomato sauce evenly, leaving a border for the crust.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce.
- Layer pepperoni slices over the cheese.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until crust is golden brown and cheese is bubbling.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Preheating the cast iron skillet is crucial for a crispy crust. Shred your own cheese for better melting. Let the pizza cool for 5 minutes before slicing to prevent cheese from sliding off. For leftovers, reheat in a skillet to restore crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of pizz
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 40
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 14
Keywords: deep dish pizza, cast iron pizza, pepperoni pizza, family dinner, quick dinner, homemade pizza, budget meals