🍕 Pan Pizza Recipe: Thick, Golden Crust Meets Oozy, Melty Cheese Bliss
When you’re craving pizza that gives you that chewy, golden crust with crispy edges and a pillowy center—you want pan pizza. This isn’t your average thin-crust pie. A good pan pizza recipe delivers deep, rich flavor, a caramelized bottom, and an indulgent texture that screams comfort.
As someone who’s tested dozens of methods, tweaked flour types, and experimented with oils and rise times, I can confidently say: this is the pan pizza that never fails. It’s my go-to for pizza night when I want big flavor with minimal fuss.
Let’s dive into how to make authentic, thick, cheesy pan pizza at home—the kind your favorite pizzeria charges extra for.
🧲 Ingredients for Pan Pizza Dough & Toppings
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bread flour (or all-purpose) | 2 1/4 cups (270g) |
| Instant dry yeast | 2 tsp |
| Sugar | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Warm water (110°F/45°C) | 3/4 cup (180ml) |
| Olive oil (for dough) | 1 tbsp |
| Olive oil (for pan) | 3 tbsp |
| Pizza sauce | 1/2 to 2/3 cup |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 1.5 to 2 cups |
| Parmesan cheese (optional) | 2 tbsp |
| Toppings (pepperoni, veggies) | Your choice |
Note: A heavy, 10- to 12-inch cast iron or nonstick cake pan works best for this recipe.
🌟 Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Pan Pizza
Step 1: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl:
- Combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
- Add warm water and 1 tbsp olive oil.
- Stir until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead for about 2–3 minutes until soft and slightly elastic.
Tip: You can also do this in a stand mixer with a dough hook for ease.
Step 2: First Rise (Slow & Easy)
- Lightly oil the bowl and dough.
- Cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel.
- Let it rise at room temp for 4–6 hours, or refrigerate overnight for better flavor.
Step 3: Prep the Pan
- Coat your pan generously with 3 tbsp olive oil (yes, really).
- This gives you that signature crispy, golden crust.
Step 4: Second Rise (In the Pan)
- Transfer the dough to the pan.
- Press it gently to fit the shape. If it springs back, let it rest 10 minutes and try again.
- Cover and let it rise in the pan for 1 to 1.5 hours, until puffy.
Step 5: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat to 500°F (260°C). Place a rack in the lower third of your oven.
Step 6: Top Your Pizza
- Spread sauce over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
- Add cheese all the way to the edges (this is key!).
- Layer your favorite toppings: pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, olives—go wild.
Step 7: Bake
- Bake for 14–16 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are deeply golden.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes, then use a spatula to lift and admire that crispy base!
Step 8: Slice & Devour
- Slice into thick squares or wedges.
- Serve with chili flakes, garlic oil, or fresh basil if you’re feeling fancy.
💡 Tips & Tricks for a Killer Pan Pizza
- Don’t skimp on the oil. It’s what makes the crust fry instead of just bake.
- Use a metal pan. Cast iron or dark cake pans are best for that crisp edge.
- Chill the dough overnight. You’ll get deeper, complex flavor.
- Put cheese to the edge. It caramelizes against the hot pan and creates that irresistible crispy lace.
- Let it rest after baking. This keeps the crust crispy and helps toppings settle.
🎓 FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Pan Pizza
What makes pan pizza different from regular pizza?
Pan pizza is thicker, with a crisp, golden crust from baking in oil. It’s heartier and has a deep-dish feel without being too bready.
Can I use all-purpose flour?
Yes! Bread flour gives a chewier texture, but all-purpose works beautifully too.
Can I make the dough ahead?
Absolutely. Let it rise overnight in the fridge. Bring to room temp before shaping.
Do I need a cast iron pan?
Not necessarily. A heavy non-stick or dark metal cake pan works great. Avoid glass.
What kind of cheese is best?
Low-moisture mozzarella melts beautifully and browns well. Mix with provolone or cheddar for variety.
🌿 Final Thoughts: A Pizza Worth Every Bite
This pan pizza recipe is my comfort food love letter. There’s something about the way the crust crackles when you bite in, the stretch of gooey cheese, the rich tomato sauce balancing it all. It’s the kind of pizza that brings people to the table.
Make it your own. Go simple with just mozzarella and basil. Load it with sausage and caramelized onions. Try white pizza with ricotta and garlic. However you top it, that crust is going to be unforgettable.
So fire up that oven, grab your pan, and get ready to blow your own mind. This isn’t just pizza. It’s pan pizza—bold, buttery, and downright legendary.
See Also: Authentic Margarita Pizza Recipe – Classic Italian Flavor in Every Slice
