Homemade, Crispy Cast Iron Skillet Pizza is the answer to your Friday night pizza dreams! It's also where your favorite toppings meet the easiest pizza-making method imaginable.
Optional: fresh basil and parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 500°F. Place a 10-inch, well-seasoned cast iron skillet in the oven while it preheats. For the crispiest crust, you want a hot skillet!
While the skillet heats up, roll out the dough ball on a clean, floured surface into a 10-inch circle (or the size of your cast iron skillet).
Carefully remove the hot pan from the oven. Leave an oven mitt or kitchen towel over the handle to remind you not to touch it. Carefully drizzle olive oil in the skillet and use a pastry brush to coat the bottom and bottom edges of the skillet evenly. Sprinkle the cornmeal in an even layer on the bottom of the skillet.
Carefully place the dough in the skillet to the edge of the pan; do not try to bring it up the sides of the skillet. Top with mozzarella cheese. (Note: be cautious of hot splattering sauce and oil!)
Place the skillet back in the oven on the bottom rack and bake for 12-14 minutes or until the edges of the crust are light golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
Remove it from the oven and allow it to sit for a few minutes to allow the pizza to cool slightly before slicing and serving. Optional: garnish with parmesan and fresh basil, and enjoy!
Notes
Have all your ingredients ready and measured because this recipe comes together quickly once the skillet comes out of the oven. Also, please note that you will be working with a very hot cast iron pan, so be careful. This is not a recipe I would recommend your children help with.
Before you start, read the recipe from start to finish to understand the steps, gather any equipment, and measure out all the necessary ingredients.
Take your pizza dough out of the fridge for about 45 minutes before rolling it out. It will be easier to work with.
Aim for an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking when rolling out the pizza dough. You can use a rolling pin or your hands, but make sure it fits the skillet.
Keep an eye on the oven temperature and cooking time. Adjust as needed to prevent burning or undercooking.
If you notice uneven browning, rotate the skillet in the oven to ensure even cooking.
Use visual cues such as a golden-brown crust and bubbling cheese to determine when the pizza is done. You can also insert a knife or toothpick into the center to check if the dough is cooked.
Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This helps the cheese set and prevents burns.
Most pizza dough you purchase is 16 ounces; this recipe only calls for 12 ounces. Here are some ideas for what to do with your leftover dough.