Name: Ultimate Cast Iron Skillet Pizza
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade); 1/2 cup pizza sauce; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup sliced turkey pepperoni (or other toppings of your choice); 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms; 1/4 cup sliced bell peppers; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh basil leaves for garnish

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Crispy, chewy, and utterly satisfying, this cast iron skillet pizza delivers pizzeria-quality flavor without the pizzeria price tag or the wait. The secret lies in the cast iron skillet itself, which creates a perfectly golden-brown and crunchy crust, while maintaining a soft and airy interior. The combination of tangy tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, savory Parmesan, and your favorite toppings creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will have everyone reaching for a second slice.

This ultimate cast iron skillet pizza recipe is perfect for a fun family dinner, a casual get-together with friends, or even a cozy night in. It’s quick, easy, and endlessly customizable, making it a surefire crowd-pleaser.

Why you’ll love this Ultimate Cast Iron Skillet Pizza

Ready in under 40 minutes – quicker than ordering takeout!
The cast iron skillet creates an unbelievably crispy crust.
Completely customizable with your favorite toppings.
A fun and interactive way to involve the whole family in cooking.
Makes a generous amount, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers.
This is the easiest way to make an ultimate cast iron skillet pizza at home.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredients for Ultimate Cast Iron Skillet Pizza

1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 cup pizza sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup sliced turkey pepperoni (or other toppings of your choice) – Try sliced beef sausage or plant-based alternatives!
1/4 cup sliced mushrooms
1/4 cup sliced bell peppers
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

How to make Ultimate Cast Iron Skillet Pizza

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Skillet

Cast iron skillet pizza makes every moment feel lush. Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C). Place a 12-inch cast iron skillet in the oven while it preheats. This is key to a crispy crust!

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. Drizzle olive oil into the skillet, coating the bottom and sides. Place the pizza dough in the skillet and stretch it to fit, pressing it into the corners.

Chef’s Tip: If the dough is too elastic and keeps shrinking back, let it rest for a few minutes before stretching it again.

Step 3: Add Toppings

Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. Add your desired toppings, such as turkey pepperoni, mushrooms, and bell peppers.

Step 4: Bake the Pizza

Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using). Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Remove the cast iron skillet pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Tips for Success

Make sure your cast iron skillet is well-seasoned to prevent sticking.
Don’t overcrowd the pizza with toppings – less is often more!
For an extra crispy crust, brush the edges with olive oil before baking.
Preheating the cast iron skillet is crucial for achieving that perfectly crispy crust.

Serving Suggestions

This cast iron skillet pizza is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a simple side salad or some garlic bread. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect counterpoint to the richness of the pizza. For a refreshing beverage, try iced tea or sparkling water with lemon.

Storage & Reheating

This cast iron skillet pizza is best served immediately. You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but the crust will soften. Reheat in a preheated oven or skillet for best results. To reheat, place a slice or two in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and the crust is crispy again, or bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze this pizza?

While you can freeze the pizza, the crust may become soggy upon thawing and reheating. For best results, freeze individual slices and reheat in a skillet or oven.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses, such as provolone, cheddar, or fontina.

Is this pizza spicy?

The recipe is not inherently spicy. The red pepper flakes are optional, so you can omit them if you prefer a milder flavor.

In conclusion, this ultimate cast iron skillet pizza recipe delivers unbeatable flavor and texture with minimal effort. The crispy crust, bubbly cheese, and customizable toppings make it a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Get ready to enjoy pizza night like never before! Let us know in the comments how you liked it!

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