Cast Iron Skillet Pizza Recipe
This Cast Iron Skillet Pizza recipe delivers a perfectly crispy and golden crust with melty mozzarella cheese and savory marinara sauce, all cooked in a hot cast iron skillet for authentic flavor and texture. Ideal for a quick homemade pizza night, this method ensures a beautifully baked pie with a delightful buttery crust finish.
- Author: Emma
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Pizza Dough
- 12 oz. pizza dough, at room temperature
Base and Crust
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese, grated
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Toppings
- ½ cup marinara sauce
- 1 ¾ cups mozzarella cheese, whole milk/low moisture
- 14 slices pepperoni (optional)
- ¼ cup sliced onions and peppers (optional)
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). It’s best to heat it for about 30 minutes to ensure the cast iron skillet reaches a very hot temperature for optimal crust crispiness.
- Prepare Dough: If you have 1 pound of dough, remove a quarter to use this recipe perfectly with 12 ounces of room temperature dough.
- Shape Dough in Skillet: Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a 14-inch circle. Lightly spray a 12-inch cast iron skillet with nonstick cooking spray, then transfer the dough to the skillet. Press the dough up the sides halfway, then roll the edges downward to form a crust.
- Oil and Season Dough: Brush the top of the dough evenly with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and dried oregano. Use a fork to poke holes through the dough to vent air and prevent bubbles.
- Initial Bake: Place the skillet on the lower oven rack and bake for 5 minutes. Remove and gently dab away any excess oil with a paper towel, pressing the crust down to adhere well to the skillet.
- Add Toppings: Spread marinara sauce evenly over the crust, then sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and your choice of toppings such as pepperoni, onions, and peppers.
- Second Bake: Return the skillet to the lower oven rack and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Butter and Final Bake: Remove the skillet once more and brush the crust with melted butter. Move the skillet to the upper rack and bake for 3 more minutes. Then, broil at 425°F for 1 minute, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the pizza to rest in the skillet for 3-5 minutes. Tilt the skillet slightly and use a spatula to carefully slide the pizza onto a cutting board. Slice and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Letting the oven heat for a full 30 minutes is key to getting a crispy, golden crust with the cast iron skillet.
- Vent the dough with a fork before baking to avoid air bubbles forming during cooking.
- Be cautious during the broiling step and watch the pizza closely to prevent burning.
- Optional toppings allow customization but are not included in the nutrition estimates.
- Leftover pizza can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet or oven for best results.
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