Step-by-step instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Spray an 18 x 13 sheet pan with non-stick spray and line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, powdered milk, sugar, yeast, and salt. Whisk until blended.
3. Mix the vegetable oil with warm water and then pour it into the flour mixture. Stir it with a wooden spoon until a cohesive dough forms, ensuring no dry pockets remain.
4. Using your fingertips, spread the dough evenly across the sheet pan. If it feels tough to spread, let it rest for 5 minutes before trying again.
5. Bake the crust alone for 8-10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and set aside.
6. In a skillet, brown the Italian sausage and ground chuck with salt and pepper until crumbled. Drain and set aside.
7. For the sauce (best if made a day ahead), mix tomato paste, water, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and rosemary in a pot. Cook until blended and fragrant.
8. Once the crust is partially baked, spread the sauce over top, add the meats, and layer with mozzarella cheese.
9. Return to the oven and bake at 475°F for another 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
10. Let the finished pizza stand for 5 minutes, then cut into slices and serve.

Best ways to enjoy it

Serving school pizza is all about nostalgia and comfort. Slice it generously and consider pairing it with a fresh garden salad or crispy garlic bread for a well-rounded meal. Don’t forget to offer some classic condiments like red pepper flakes or Parmesan cheese for that authentic touch!

How to store & freeze

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, slice the pizza and wrap it tightly in aluminum foil before freezing. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Helpful cooking tips

• To get the perfect crust, ensure your water is at the right temperature (110-115°F). If it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast.
• Experiment with toppings! You can add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms, or even try different cheeses for a unique twist.
• If making sauce ahead, allow it to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation, which can make it watery.

Recipe variations

Feel free to get creative! Consider adding different meats, like pepperoni or bacon, for added flavor. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, swap out the meat for spinach and mushrooms. You can also alter the herbs in the sauce to suit your taste—try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a little heat.

FAQs

What is the prep time for this recipe?

This school pizza recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 20 minutes for baking, making it a quick and satisfying meal!

Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use bread flour for a chewier texture. Just keep in mind it may slightly alter the dough’s rise.

Is it safe to freeze and reheat pizza?

Absolutely! Just ensure you wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. When reheating, aim for even reheating in the oven to maintain the crispness of the crust.

With its nostalgic roots and delicious flavors, this school pizza recipe will quickly become a staple in your home. Whether you serve it to family or friends, it’s sure to evoke fond memories and create new ones!