Lunch Lady Sheet Pan Pizza

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Lunch Lady Sheet Pan Pizza

Lunch Lady Sheet Pan Pizza is a delightful trip down memory lane, reminiscent of school days filled with laughter and shared meals. This recipe encapsulates the essence of childhood nostalgia, with its golden-brown crust, gooey cheese, and savory pepperoni. The smell wafting through your kitchen will not only make your mouth water but also stir memories of carefree times spent with friends over a slice. Whether you’re looking to impress your family or host a fun get-together, this pizza is an effortless and satisfying option you won’t want to miss. Let’s walk through this recipe step-by-step and discover why it deserves a spot in your weekly meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the most attractive features of Lunch Lady Sheet Pan Pizza is its ease of preparation. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip this up without a hitch. The whole family will love gathering around this giant pizza, making it a delightful meal for everyone, from kids to adults. Plus, it takes only about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a great option for busy weeknights. This recipe can also be customized, allowing you to add your favorite toppings or spices while keeping the core simplicity intact.

Ingredients for Lunch Lady Sheet Pan Pizza

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for making an unforgettable Lunch Lady Sheet Pan Pizza. Below is the list that will transport your taste buds straight back to your school days:

• 4 ½ cups bread flour: Gives a chewy, satisfying crust that forms the perfect base.
• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and enhances the dough’s texture.
• 2 ½ tsp kosher salt: Elevates the flavors and balances the sweetness of the crust.
• 1 tsp granulated sugar: A hint of sweetness to activate the yeast.
• 1 (1/4 oz) packet instant yeast: The magic ingredient that makes your pizza rise perfectly.
• Cooking spray: To keep everything from sticking to your pans.
• 1 Tbsp cornmeal: For added texture and a delightful crunch.
• 1 cup pizza sauce: Rich and tangy—just the right complement to the cheese and toppings.
• 1 lb shredded low moisture mozzarella: Melts beautifully, creating a gooey layer of cheese.
• 24 thin slices pepperoni: Adds a classic, savory touch.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A flavorful blend that enhances the overall taste profile.

Step-by-Step Directions for Lunch Lady Sheet Pan Pizza

1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit to get it hot and ready for baking.

2. In a stand mixer, combine 4 ½ cups of bread flour, 2 Tbsp of olive oil, 2 ½ tsp of kosher salt, 1 tsp of granulated sugar, 1 (1/4 oz) packet of instant yeast, and 1 ⅓ cups of warm water. Mix on medium speed until the dough becomes smooth and elastic; this will take about 8-10 minutes.

3. Lightly spray a bowl with cooking spray and transfer the dough into the bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap and allow it to rise for 15 minutes. This short resting period helps develop the dough’s texture.

4. Roll the dough into an 18" x 13" rectangle on a floured surface. This ensures that the dough fits perfectly in the pan.

5. Sprinkle 1 Tbsp of cornmeal on a sheet pan to prevent sticking and add texture, then carefully place the rolled dough on top.

6. Evenly spread 1 cup of pizza sauce over the dough, followed by 1 lb of shredded mozzarella cheese. Next, place the 24 thin slices of pepperoni over the cheese and sprinkle with 1 tsp of Italian seasoning to infuse the dish with flavor.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-17 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.

Tips & Tricks for Lunch Lady Sheet Pan Pizza

To make your pizza experience even better, consider these tips:

• Chef’s Secret: Use a pizza stone to preheat in the oven and transfer the pizza onto it for an extra crispy bottom.

• Optional Extras: Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms if you want to elevate the flavors further.

• Cooking Hacks: If you’re short on time, use store-bought pizza sauce and dough to cut down on prep time.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

The joy of serving Lunch Lady Sheet Pan Pizza extends beyond just the pizza itself. Pair it with a refreshing side salad dressed in light vinaigrette or some garlic knots to round out the meal. A sprinkle of chili flakes can offer a spicy kick for those who enjoy a little heat. Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch or marinara, to make it even more interactive and fun for the gathering.

Nutritional Information for Lunch Lady Sheet Pan Pizza

Though not the lightest meal, Lunch Lady Sheet Pan Pizza provides deliciousness in every bite. It typically contains around 300-400 calories per slice, depending on the thickness and toppings you choose. It’s important to remember that a slice of pizza can also provide protein and carbohydrates, making it a satisfying choice when enjoyed in moderation.

Storing Tips & Variations for Lunch Lady Sheet Pan Pizza

If you have leftover pizza (which is rare because it’s so good), you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Reheating can be done in the oven or microwave, depending on your preference.

Feel free to explore variations such as a vegetarian version, where you load it with an assortment of your favorite veggies or a barbecue chicken twist by swapping out the sauce and toppings. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion for Lunch Lady Sheet Pan Pizza

As you can see, Lunch Lady Sheet Pan Pizza is not just a meal; it’s a cherished experience waiting to be shared. The simplicity of the recipe combined with its nostalgic roots will have everyone asking for seconds. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and dive into this delightful foodie adventure today! You won’t regret it.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser. Consider a blend with all-purpose flour for a better result.

2. How can I make the pizza crust crispier?

Preheating your baking sheet or using a pizza stone can help make the crust crispier.

3. What if I don’t have a stand mixer?

You can knead the dough by hand for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

4. Can I use different toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to personalize your pizza with veggies, different cheeses, or proteins that suit your taste.

5. Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Just allow it to come to room temperature before rolling it out.

Lunch Lady Sheet Pan Pizza

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A delightful, nostalgic pizza reminiscent of school days, featuring a golden-brown crust, gooey cheese, and savory pepperoni.

• Author: catherine
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 17 minutes
• Total Time: 32 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 ½ cups bread flour
• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 ½ tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp granulated sugar
• 1 (1/4 oz) packet instant yeast
• 1 ⅓ cups warm water
• Cooking spray
• 1 Tbsp cornmeal
• 1 cup pizza sauce
• 1 lb shredded low moisture mozzarella
• 24 thin slices pepperoni
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In a stand mixer, combine bread flour, olive oil, kosher salt, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and warm water. Mix on medium speed until smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise for 15 minutes.
4. Roll the dough into an 18″ x 13″ rectangle on a floured surface.
5. Sprinkle cornmeal on a sheet pan and place the rolled dough on top.
6. Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough, followed by mozzarella cheese and pepperoni slices. Sprinkle Italian seasoning on top.
7. Bake for 15-17 minutes, or until edges are golden brown and cheese is bubbly.

Notes

For a crispier crust, use a pizza stone or preheated baking sheet. Customize with additional toppings as desired.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

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