Pan Pizza Recipe Like Pizza Hut

Pan Pizza Recipe Like Pizza Hut

Ingredients

For the dough (makes 2 large pan pizzas):

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)

• 1 ¼ cups warm water (110°F / 45°C)

• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)

• 1 tsp sugar

• 2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for greasing pan)

• 1 tsp salt

For the sauce:

• 1 cup tomato sauce

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried basil

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp sugar (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the topping:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan (optional)

• Pepperoni slices, vegetables, or other toppings of choice

For the pan:

• 2 tbsp olive oil (for greasing the pan, helps create the signature thick crust)

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast.

2. Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.

   • Tip: If the yeast doesn’t foam, it might be dead. Start over with fresh yeast.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.

2. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil.

3. Mix until a dough forms. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook or knead by hand.

4. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1–1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a medium bowl, mix tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, sugar, salt, and pepper.

2. Taste and adjust seasoning. Set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).

2. Generously grease a 12-inch round cake pan or pizza pan with 1 tbsp olive oil.

3. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two portions if making 2 pizzas.

4. Press one portion of dough into the pan, pushing it slightly up the edges to form a rim.

Step 5: Assemble the Pizza

1. Spread a thin layer of sauce over the dough.

2. Sprinkle 1–2 cups of shredded mozzarella evenly over the sauce.

3. Add toppings of your choice (pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, etc.).

4. Sprinkle a little Parmesan on top for extra flavor.

Step 6: Bake

1. Place the pan in the preheated oven.

2. Bake for 12–18 minutes, depending on your oven, until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

   • Tip: For an extra crispy bottom, preheat your pan in the oven for 5 minutes before adding dough.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

1. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for 3–5 minutes.

2. Slice and serve hot.

3. Optional: Drizzle with garlic butter or sprinkle fresh basil for a restaurant touch.

Tips for Pizza Hut-Style Pan Pizza

• Thick, fluffy crust: Don’t press the dough too thin; let it rise well.

• Oil in pan: Creates a golden, crispy bottom.

• Cheese layering: Use plenty of mozzarella and cover edges to make a gooey center.

• Toppings: Don’t overload; too many can make the pizza soggy.