If you’re looking for a pizza experience that’s crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, you’ve got to try this Cast Iron Pan Pizza Recipe. It combines the art of classic Italian pizza with the rustic charm and perfect crust that only a cast iron pan can deliver. From the tender, chewy dough to the bubbling cheese and spicy pepperoni slices, this pizza is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s for a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, mastering this Cast Iron Pan Pizza Recipe will become one of your favorite kitchen triumphs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients may sound straightforward, but in this recipe, every single element plays a starring role. The combination of flours creates the ideal dough texture, while simple toppings bring that authentic pizza soul to your cast iron masterpiece.
- 1 ⅓ cups bread flour: Adds strength and chew for the perfect crust structure.
- 1 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour: Balances tenderness without compromising the dough’s integrity.
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dough and toppings.
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast: Makes the dough rise beautifully, light and airy.
- ½ teaspoon sugar: Feeds the yeast for a better rise and subtle sweetness in the crust.
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil plus more for coating: Adds richness and helps create that golden, crispy edge.
- 1 ¼ cups lukewarm water (about 110℉): Activates the yeast while balancing dough moisture perfectly.
- ½ cup pizza sauce: The tangy, herby base layer that brings classic pizza flavor.
- 2 cups shredded low moisture mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly for that gooey, cheesy layer you crave.
- 15-20 slices pepperoni: Offers a spicy, savory kick atop the cheese.
How to Make Cast Iron Pan Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by combining your flours, salt, yeast, and sugar in a large bowl. Gradually add lukewarm water and olive oil, stirring until the dough starts to come together. Knead it by hand on a floured surface for about 8 to 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This part is so satisfying because you can really feel the transformation. Then, place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Heat Your Cast Iron Pan
While the dough is rising, place your cast iron pan on the stove over medium heat and drizzle a little olive oil inside. This oil is key because it helps create that crispy, golden crust that sets this pizza apart. Warm the pan just enough to feel the heat without smoking—this prepares the surface for the dough to achieve its perfect sear.
Step 3: Shape and Place the Dough
Once risen, punch down the dough and shape it into a circle slightly larger than your pan’s diameter. Carefully place the dough in the hot cast iron pan and gently press it to the edges. You’ll want the dough to have some lift along the sides, catching that olive oil for a crispy edge while the middle remains tender.
Step 4: Add Pizza Sauce and Toppings
Spread the half cup of pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Sprinkle two cups of shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce and arrange your pepperoni slices on top. This layering ensures that every bite has a perfect balance of tangy, creamy, and savory flavors.
Step 5: Cook the Pizza
Lower the heat to medium-low and cover the pan with a lid. This traps heat, helping the cheese melt thoroughly while the dough cooks through. Cook for about 10 to 12 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is brown and crispy on the bottom. The beauty of the Cast Iron Pan Pizza Recipe is that it cooks so evenly, with a golden crust and perfectly melty toppings.
How to Serve Cast Iron Pan Pizza Recipe
Garnishes
A little fresh basil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can take this pizza to the next level. Adding fresh herbs brightens up the rich cheese and pepperoni, while pepper flakes add a touch of heat for those who love a little kick with their slice.
Side Dishes
Crisp green salads with a tangy vinaigrette pair wonderfully, cutting through the richness of the cheese. Roasted veggies or garlic bread also complement this meal perfectly, offering contrasting textures and flavors to round out the dining experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your cast iron pizza straight from the pan for a rustic, homey vibe that everyone loves. Alternatively, slide it onto a wooden board and slice it family-style. For parties, you can cut it into smaller squares or even add a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze for a gourmet twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cast Iron Pan Pizza Recipe slices are easy to store in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for 2 to 3 days and maintain enough moisture and flavor to enjoy a quick reheat later.
Freezing
If you want to save pizza for longer, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. This method locks in freshness for up to a month, making it a perfect ready-to-go meal when time is tight.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to revive the crust’s crispiness. Alternatively, use a toaster oven or conventional oven at 375℉ for about 8-10 minutes. This keeps the cheese melty and the crust delightful without sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for this Cast Iron Pan Pizza Recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic, you can mix in provolone, gouda, or even a sprinkle of parmesan for added flavor. Just be sure the cheese melts well to achieve that perfect gooey texture.
Do I have to use a cast iron pan for this recipe?
The cast iron pan is key because it retains and distributes heat so evenly, creating the perfect crispy crust. Using a regular pan won’t give quite the same texture or flavor, but it can work in a pinch.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and store it in the fridge. This slow fermentation can actually add flavor, but be sure to let it come to room temperature before shaping and cooking.
How thick should the dough be when placed in the pan?
A thickness of about ⅓ to ½ inch is ideal. This allows the dough to cook through properly while keeping a nice crust edge that’s crisp and golden.
Is this Cast Iron Pan Pizza Recipe suitable for beginners?
Definitely! The recipe is straightforward, requires minimal ingredients, and the cast iron pan does a lot of the heavy lifting in terms of heat distribution, making it a great starting point for anyone new to homemade pizza.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Cast Iron Pan Pizza Recipe, it’s going to become your go-to for homemade pizza nights. There’s something incredibly satisfying about the crispy crust, melted cheese, and rich toppings created right in a cast iron skillet. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up any day of the week but special enough to impress your friends and family. So grab your pan, get that dough going, and enjoy a slice (or two) of absolute comfort food perfection!
PrintCast Iron Pan Pizza Recipe
This Cast Iron Pan Pizza recipe delivers a perfectly crispy yet chewy crust achieved by cooking the dough directly in a preheated cast iron skillet. The dough combines bread and all-purpose flours for optimal texture, with a balanced blend of yeast and salt. Topped with tangy pizza sauce, shredded low-moisture mozzarella, and classic pepperoni slices, this stovetop skillet pizza method ensures a golden, bubbly finish without needing a traditional oven.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 1 medium pizza (serves 2-3)
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 ⅓ cups bread flour
- 1 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, plus more for coating
- 1 ¼ cups lukewarm water (about 110℉)
Toppings
- ½ cup pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese (shred your own for best melt)
- 15–20 slices pepperoni
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, all-purpose flour, kosher salt, instant yeast, and sugar. Stir until evenly mixed.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the lukewarm water and 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until the dough starts to come together.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 6-7 minutes.
- First Rise: Lightly coat a bowl with olive oil and place the dough inside, turning it to coat. Cover with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the Cast Iron Skillet: Place a 10-12 inch cast iron skillet on the stovetop over medium heat while the dough rises to preheat.
- Shape the Dough: Once risen, punch down the dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Shape it into a round disk about the size of your skillet.
- Cook the Dough Base: Lightly oil the preheated cast iron skillet. Place the dough into the skillet and cook for about 3-5 minutes until the bottom is golden and crispy. Adjust heat as necessary to avoid burning.
- Add Toppings: Flip the dough carefully using a spatula. Spread the ½ cup pizza sauce evenly over the cooked side, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously, and arrange the pepperoni slices on top.
- Cover and Cook: Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and cook for another 7-10 minutes. This allows the cheese to melt fully and the crust to cook through without burning the base.
- Finish and Serve: Once the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned, remove the skillet from heat. Let the pizza cool for 2 minutes before slicing and serving hot.
Notes
- Use a well-seasoned cast iron skillet for best results to prevent sticking.
- Adjust heat carefully to prevent the dough bottom from burning before toppings are fully cooked.
- Shredding your own mozzarella ensures better melting quality than pre-shredded cheese.
- The covered cooking step mimics oven baking by trapping heat and melting the cheese perfectly.
- Allow dough to rise fully for a soft and airy crust.
