Homemade Sheet Pan Pizza Recipe

If you’re craving a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal that combines crispy edges with melty cheese and rich tomato sauce, you can’t go wrong with this Homemade Sheet Pan Pizza Recipe. It’s a simple, hands-on way to make a family-sized pizza all in one pan, perfect for casual dinners or game day gatherings. The charm of this recipe is how it balances the ease of preparation with bold, satisfying flavors—plus, you get that golden crust every time. Let me walk you through this incredibly tasty adventure that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Homemade Sheet Pan Pizza Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a vital role in building layers of flavor and fantastic texture. From the yeasty dough that forms the base to the rich, gooey mozzarella topping, every item on the list is essential. Let’s dive into what you need to get started.

• 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast: This little powerhouse helps your dough rise to the perfect fluffy texture.
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C): Ideal warmth awakens the yeast and kickstarts fermentation.
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting: The foundation of your dough, providing structure and tenderness.
• 2 tbsp olive oil, plus more for greasing the pan: Adds richness, helps prevent sticking, and crisps the crust edges beautifully.
• 1 tsp salt: Balances the flavors and enhances overall taste.
• 1 tsp sugar: Feeds the yeast and contributes a subtle sweetness to the dough.
• 1 1/2 cups marinara or pizza sauce: The tangy, herby base that infuses every bite with savory delight.
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey perfection, delivering that signature pizza pull.
• 30-40 slices pepperoni: A classic topping that adds spice, saltiness, and a satisfying meaty bite.
• 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning: Sprinkled on top to introduce herbal warmth and depth.
• Grated Parmesan cheese for sprinkling: Adds a sharp, nutty finish.
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional for garnish): A fresh, bright contrast that livens up the pizza when served.

How to Make Homemade Sheet Pan Pizza Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Begin by activating your yeast in warm water, stirring in a pinch of sugar to feed those tiny bubbles of life. Once it’s frothy—a good 5 to 10 minutes—mix in flour, olive oil, salt, and the rest of the sugar. Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, then let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size. This step is critical for getting that airy yet sturdy base that will hold up to the toppings without becoming soggy.

Step 2: Shape the Dough on the Sheet Pan

Once your dough is ready, generously grease your sheet pan with olive oil to ensure a crispy bottom crust and easy removal later. Press and stretch the dough evenly across the pan, pushing it up towards the edges for a crust with a little more bite. This rustic approach to shaping means your pizza is as fun to make as it is to eat.

Step 3: Add the Sauce and Cheese

Spoon the marinara sauce over the stretched dough, spreading it evenly but leaving a small border around the edges. This sauce layer locks in moisture and flavor. Next, pile on the shredded mozzarella until the surface is generously covered—it’s the cheese that brings the pizza together with its melty richness.

Step 4: Top with Pepperoni and Seasonings

Distribute pepperoni slices evenly to make sure every slice has that spicy, savory pop. Sprinkle oregano (or your choice of Italian seasoning) and grated Parmesan cheese for added layers of flavor, which will toast beautifully during baking.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop your sheet pan pizza into a preheated oven set to 450°F (230°C). Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes until the crust is golden and crispy, and the cheese bubbles with golden spots. The high temperature is key for a perfect crust-to-topping ratio and that irresistible aroma that fills the kitchen.

How to Serve Homemade Sheet Pan Pizza Recipe

Garnishes

To really elevate your pizza experience, sprinkle fresh parsley or basil over the top right after it comes out of the oven. The fresh herbs add a burst of color and a lovely herbal brightness that balances the richness of the cheese and meat.

Side Dishes

This pizza pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp Caesar salad or garlic-roasted vegetables. These fresh accompaniments offer a nice contrast in texture and keep the meal balanced without overwhelming those delicious pizza flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try cutting your sheet pan pizza into small squares for easy grab-and-go party bites or layering with additional toppings like sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for deeper flavor complexity. You could also set up a pizza bar where friends add toppings before baking—always a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, keep your leftover sheet pan pizza wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container up to 3 days in the fridge. This will help preserve freshness and prevent the crust from drying out.

Freezing

If you want to save pizza for longer, freeze it before reheating. Wrap individual slices or the whole pan portion in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen pizza stays good for up to 2 months and is perfect for quick meals later on.

Reheating

To revive leftover pizza, the oven is your best friend. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 to 12 minutes to bring back the crunch and melt the cheese beautifully without making the dough soggy as microwaving might.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour?

All-purpose flour works best for this recipe, striking a good balance between chewiness and crispiness. Using bread flour will give a chewier crust, while cake flour might make it too soft, so stick to all-purpose if you can.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Using a good-quality gluten-free flour blend designed for baking can work well. Just keep in mind that the texture might be a bit different since gluten contributes to the dough’s elasticity.

Can I substitute other toppings for pepperoni?

Absolutely! This Homemade Sheet Pan Pizza Recipe is super versatile. Feel free to experiment with sausage, grilled veggies, olives, or even pineapple for a sweet contrast.

How long can I let the dough rise?

A double rise, approximately 1 to 2 hours in a warm place, is ideal. If you’re pressed for time, even 30 minutes can work, but the dough won’t be quite as airy or fluffy.

Do I have to preheat the oven to such a high temperature?

Yes, baking at 450°F (230°C) helps achieve a crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese in a short amount of time. Lower temps may result in a softer, less crisp crust.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about pulling a warm, golden sheet pan pizza fresh from the oven, especially when it’s made with your own hands. This Homemade Sheet Pan Pizza Recipe brings ease, flavor, and that perfect crispy-cheesy balance to your table. I cannot wait for you to try it and make it your own. Gather your ingredients, invite your loved ones, and enjoy every delicious slice together!

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