Directions to Follow
- Preheat your oven to 475°F. Grease an 18 x 13 sheet pan with cooking spray and lay down parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered milk, sugar, yeast, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix the vegetable oil with warm water. Gently pour this mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon until a batter forms, ensuring there are no dry spots.
- With your fingertips, spread the dough evenly onto the sheet pan. If the dough is tough to spread, let it rest for about 5 minutes, then try again.
- Bake the crust alone for 8-10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and set aside.
- In a skillet, brown the Italian sausage and ground chuck together, seasoning with salt and pepper until crumbly. Drain off any excess fat and set aside.
- For the sauce, combine the tomato paste, water, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and rosemary in a bowl.
- To assemble, spread the sauce over the partially baked crust. Top it with the browned meats and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Return to the oven and bake at 475°F for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
- Allow the pizza to stand for 5 minutes. Then, cut it into slices and serve hot.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Here are some suggestions to elevate your pizza experience:
- Serve with a simple side salad for a light, nutritious balance.
- Pair with garlic bread or breadsticks for that extra carb comfort.
- Try offering dipping sauces like ranch or marinara to indulge the kids (and the grown-ups too!).
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
After enjoying your school pizza, you might have some leftovers—lucky you! To keep them fresh, store any uneaten slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The crust might become slightly softer, but it will still be delicious. Reheat in the oven or a microwave until warmed through. For extended storage, it can also be frozen for up to two months!
Helpful Cooking Tips
- For an even fluffier crust, allow the dough to rise in a warm area for about 30 minutes after mixing, before spreading it out.
- Don’t hesitate to add your favorite toppings—bell peppers, olives, or even bacon can enhance the flavors further.
- If you’re gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free flour blend but make sure to follow the specific instructions for that blend.
Creative Twists
Make this school pizza your own by trying out these variations:
- Swap the ground meats for grilled chicken or a plant-based alternative for a different flavor profile.
- Experiment with different cheeses—cheddar, provolone, or a mix of cheeses can add unique tastes.
- Change up the herbs in the sauce; fresh basil, cilantro, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can give it a kick!
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to prepare?
From start to finish, this school pizza recipe takes about 40-50 minutes, including baking time—great for a weeknight meal!
Can I make this pizza in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the crust and toppings ahead of time. Just assemble it when you’re ready to bake.
Is it safe to freeze the pizza?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked pizza. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before wrapping and placing it in an airtight container or freezer bag.
This school pizza recipe is not just food; it’s a slice of nostalgia, a reminder of carefree school days, and a delicious way to bring family and friends together around the table. Enjoy the process and let those flavors take you back!
