Each slice delivers a harmonious blend of rich tomato sauce, melted mozzarella, and your favorite toppings, crowned with a crust that oozes cheesy goodness.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Number of Servings and Ideal Serving Size
- Yields: 8 servings
- Ideal Serving Size: 1 slice
Essential Nutritional Information
- Calories: 420 kcal per serving
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fats: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
Ingredients (measured in grams)
- Pizza dough: 500g
- Mozzarella cheese (shredded): 300g
- Cheddar cheese (shredded): 150g
- Pizza sauce: 250g
- Olive oil: 30g
- Fresh basil (chopped): 10g
- Sliced bell peppers: 100g
- Sliced mushrooms: 100g
- Sliced black olives: 50g
- Crushed red pepper flakes: 5g
- Salt: 3g
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Begin by preheating your oven to 220°C (425°F).
- In a cast-iron skillet, spread olive oil evenly to coat the base and sides.
- Roll out the pizza dough and place it into the skillet, ensuring it hangs over the edge.
- Sprinkle a generous layer of cheddar cheese around the perimeter of the dough, where it overlaps the edge of the skillet.
- Fold the overlapping dough back over the cheese, sealing it in to form the cheesy crust.
- Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough's center.
- Scatter mozzarella cheese over the sauce, followed by your chosen toppings: bell peppers, mushrooms, and black olives.
- Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes and a dash of salt.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is a deep golden brown.
- Once baked, garnish with fresh basil.
Proven Tips for Culinary Success
- For an extra crispy crust, preheat the skillet before placing the dough.
- Feel free to experiment with toppings; however, avoid overloading to ensure even cooking.
- Fresh herbs, added post-baking, can elevate the flavor profile.
Anticipated FAQs
- Can I use store-bought dough? Yes, store-bought pizza dough works just as well, but ensure it's at room temperature for easy rolling.
- Is a cast-iron skillet essential? While it provides the best crispy crust, any oven-safe skillet should suffice.
- How to store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven or skillet for best results.
- Can I use different cheeses for the crust? Absolutely! Experiment with provolone, gouda, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Is there a vegan alternative? Yes, you can substitute with vegan cheese and opt for plant-based toppings.