Description
Bring the flavor of nostalgic school cafeteria lunches into your home with this easy and delicious Cafeteria Style Pizza Delight recipe. Perfect for a quick family dinner or a fun gathering, this straightforward recipe recreates that unique taste and enjoyable simplicity. With the ability to customize toppings and adjust ingredient quantities to your taste, everyone can tailor their piece of pizza to their preferences.
Ingredients
- 2 TBSP olive oil
- 2 TBSP cornmeal
- 1 lb homemade or refrigerated pizza dough
- 1/2-1 cup pizza sauce (depending on taste)
- 2-3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Additional toppings of choice (e.g., pepperoni, sausage, beef, peppers, tomatoes, mushrooms)
- Optional seasonings: Garlic powder, dried oregano
Step-by-step Directions
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 475F. Pour olive oil into a 10×15 jellyroll pan, then use a brush to evenly spread the oil across the bottom. Sprinkle the cornmeal across the oiled surface to help prevent sticking and add a slight crunch.
2. Prepare the Dough
Take your dough and press it into the pan, stretching it out to cover the entire base right up to the edges of the pan.
3. Add the Sauce
Evenly spread the pizza sauce over the dough. Cover all areas right to the edge to ensure every bite contains that rich tomato flavor.
4. Add Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Ensure coverage extends to the edges, adjusting the amount of cheese based on your preference or additional toppings.
5. Add Toppings
Layer your chosen toppings across the cheese. If desired, season with garlic powder and dried oregano for extra flavor.
6. Baking
Place the pizza into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the edges of the dough are golden brown.
7. Slicing and Serving
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly. Use a pizza cutter or a bench scraper to cut the pizza into rectangular slices.
Servings & Preparation Time
- Servings: 4-6
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- To store, place leftover pizza in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze slices on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- To reheat, preheat oven to 375F and bake for 5-7 minutes or until heated through and cheese is bubbly.
- Microwave can be used for a quick reheat, though the crust may soften.
Conclusion
The Cafeteria Style Pizza Delight is more than just a recipe; it’s a journey back to the simplicity and joy of school days lunches. With its customizable options and easy-to-follow steps, this pizza is perfect for involving kids in the kitchen or hosting a nostalgic pizza party for friends. Enjoy creating and sharing your delightful version of this cafeteria classic!
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Cafeteria Style Pizza Delight
- Total Time: 56 minute
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
Description
Bring the flavor of nostalgic school cafeteria lunches into your home with this easy and delicious Cafeteria Style Pizza Delight recipe. Perfect for a quick family dinner or a fun gathering, this straightforward recipe recreates that unique taste and enjoyable simplicity. With the ability to customize toppings and adjust ingredient quantities to your taste, everyone can tailor their piece of pizza to their preferences.
Ingredients
- 2 TBSP olive oil
- 2 TBSP cornmeal
- 1 lb homemade or refrigerated pizza dough
- 1/2–1 cup pizza sauce (depending on taste)
- 2–3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Additional toppings of choice (e.g., pepperoni, sausage, beef, peppers, tomatoes, mushrooms)
- Optional seasonings: Garlic powder, dried oregano
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan
- Prepare the Dough
- Add the Sauce
- Add Cheese
- Add Toppings
- Baking
- Slicing and Serving
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes