If you have a craving for homemade pizza but want to keep things super simple and quick, this Easy Skillet Pizza Recipe is about to become your absolute favorite go-to. It combines that perfect crispy crust with melty cheese and savory tomato sauce, all cooked right in a single cast-iron skillet. You get the satisfying charm of deep-dish style pizza without any fuss, which means more time enjoying and less time stressing in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will feel like a kitchen hack you wish you’d known forever.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping the ingredient list straightforward is one of the secrets behind this recipe’s charm. Each component plays a clear role: the dough provides a crisp yet tender foundation, the tomatoes create a rich and aromatic sauce, and the cheeses melt into a gooey, irresistible topping that brings it all together visually and flavor-wise.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Coats the skillet and dough to create a golden, crispy crust.
- 1 pound frozen bread dough (thawed, Rhodes recommended): A hassle-free dough that rises beautifully when thawed, making prep easy.
- 28 ounces basil and oregano diced tomatoes (1 large can): These canned tomatoes bring vibrant flavor and a lovely herbaceous note to your sauce.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly for that classic gooey, stretchy top layer.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (Grana Padano or Romano): Adds a sharp, salty kick and beautifully complements the mozzarella.
- Chopped fresh basil (optional, for topping): Freshens and brightens the finished pizza with a burst of herbal aroma.
How to Make Easy Skillet Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your skillet
Start by brushing the inside of a well-seasoned 12-inch cast-iron skillet with olive oil. This step is crucial because it not only prevents sticking but also helps the dough develop a crispy, golden crust that is so satisfying to bite into.
Step 2: Thaw and coat the dough
Next, place your frozen bread dough into the skillet and gently roll it around to coat it evenly with the olive oil. Cover it loosely with sprayed plastic wrap and allow it to thaw for 4 to 5 hours at room temperature. This slow thawing lets the dough relax, making it easier to stretch and shaping a tender, bubbly crust.
Step 3: Preheat your oven
While the dough is thawing, preheat your oven to 375°F, placing the rack in the lower-middle position. This heat placement will help the bottom of your pizza crisp up nicely without burning the toppings.
Step 4: Stretch and shape the dough
Carefully remove the plastic wrap from your dough. Stretch and press the dough so it covers the bottom of the skillet and rises halfway up the sides. Don’t worry if it feels stubborn at first; working in intervals to stretch the dough with short rests will make it more flexible and less likely to spring back.
Step 5: Build the pizza
Once the dough fits perfectly in the skillet, pour the basil and oregano diced tomatoes evenly over the surface. Then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella all over, followed by the grated Parmesan. This layering ensures every bite is packed with flavor and topped with a brilliant, melty cheese finish.
Step 6: Bake to perfection
Bake your skillet pizza at 375°F for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbling from edge to center. If you notice the top browning too fast, simply cover it loosely with aluminum foil to avoid burning while the pizza finishes cooking through.
Step 7: Add fresh basil
When your pizza is done baking, sprinkle a handful of chopped fresh basil over the top. This adds an amazing fresh flavor that beautifully contrasts with the rich cheeses and savory tomato sauce.
Step 8: Cool and enjoy
Let the pizza cool in the skillet for 5 to 7 minutes so the cheese can settle a bit. Then slice, serve, and watch everyone’s faces light up with delight at this easy, delicious homemade meal!
How to Serve Easy Skillet Pizza Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling fresh basil or even a pinch of red pepper flakes elevates this pizza perfectly. A drizzle of good olive oil right before serving can also add richness that makes each bite feel gourmet.
Side Dishes
To round out your meal, pair this skillet pizza with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. These sides add a fresh, crunchy contrast to the warm, cheesy main star.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve slices with a small bowl of herbed olive oil for dipping or alongside a chilled glass of your favorite red wine. This unexpected touch makes the casual pizza dinner feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover skillet pizza stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the crust crispy, avoid stacking slices on top of each other.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover slices by wrapping them tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months and make a perfect quick snack or meal.
Reheating
For reheating, pop slices in a hot skillet for a few minutes or warm in the oven to refresh the crust’s crispness and melt the cheese again. Microwave reheating is quickest but may soften the crust.
FAQs
Can I use fresh dough instead of frozen bread dough?
Absolutely! Fresh dough works wonderfully in this recipe and may actually cut down on thawing time, but frozen dough is great for convenience and consistent results.
What type of skillet is best for this Easy Skillet Pizza Recipe?
A well-seasoned cast-iron skillet is ideal because it distributes heat evenly and creates that perfect crispy crust that makes this pizza stand out.
Can I customize the toppings?
Yes! While this recipe focuses on simple tomatoes and cheese, feel free to add your favorite ingredients like pepperoni, mushrooms, or olives to make it your own.
How do I prevent the dough from sticking to the skillet?
Brushing the skillet generously with olive oil is key to preventing sticking and promoting a golden crust. Make sure the oil coats the sides as well as the bottom.
Is this recipe beginner-friendly?
Definitely! The Easy Skillet Pizza Recipe was designed with simplicity in mind, making it perfect for pizza lovers of all skill levels to nail a delicious homemade pizza.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Skillet Pizza Recipe is like a warm hug in pizza form. Its straightforward ingredients and simple process deliver a deeply satisfying meal that feels special without demanding hours in the kitchen. Give it a try on any day you want homemade pizza magic with minimal effort—you might just make it your new favorite way to enjoy this classic dish!
