Skillet Pizza
Description
A skillet pizza is a fast, foolproof way to make pizza with a golden, crispy crust without using a pizza stone or oven. Cooking it on the stovetop gives the bottom a satisfying crunch while keeping the toppings melty and flavorful. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you crave pizza without preheating the oven.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep time: 15 minutes
Resting time (for dough, optional if using store-bought): 30–60 minutes
Cook time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: 27–30 minutes (if using store-bought dough)
Ingredients (serves 2–3)
For the dough (or use store-bought pizza dough):
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp instant yeast
½ tsp sugar
½ tsp salt
½ cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)
1 tbsp olive oil
For the toppings:
½ cup pizza sauce (homemade or store-bought)
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup sliced pepperoni or cooked sausage (optional)
½ bell pepper, thinly sliced
¼ red onion, thinly sliced
1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Olive oil, for the skillet
Instructions
1. Make the dough (skip if using store-bought)
In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
Knead on a lightly floured surface for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise for 30–60 minutes until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the skillet
Heat a 10–12 inch non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
Brush lightly with olive oil.
3. Shape and cook the crust
Roll or stretch the dough to fit the skillet.
Place dough in the hot skillet, pressing it gently to cover the bottom.
Cook over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until the bottom is golden and crisp.
4. Add toppings
Flip the crust carefully (optional, or keep bottom in skillet and add toppings).
Spread pizza sauce evenly, sprinkle cheese, and add toppings.
Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for another 5–7 minutes, until the cheese melts and the edges are crispy.
5. Serve
Sprinkle fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Slice and enjoy hot straight from the skillet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use store-bought dough?
A: Yes! It saves time—just roll it out to fit your skillet.
Q: Can I cook this in the oven instead?
A: Yes, preheat to 425°F (220°C) and bake 12–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and crust is golden.
Q: What if my crust burns before cheese melts?
A: Lower the heat slightly and cover with a lid to allow toppings to cook evenly.
Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Yes, use a gluten-free pizza dough or crust mix.
Nutritional Information (per serving, 1/3 of pizza)
Calories: ~380 kcal
Protein: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 42 g
Fat: 15 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sodium: 700 mg