Pan Pizza Recipe Like Pizza Hut
Ingredients
For the dough (makes 2 large pan pizzas):
-
3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
-
1 ¼ cups warm water (110°F / 45°C)
-
2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
-
1 tsp sugar
-
2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for greasing pan)
-
1 tsp salt
For the sauce:
-
1 cup tomato sauce
-
2 tbsp tomato paste
-
1 tsp dried oregano
-
1 tsp dried basil
-
½ tsp garlic powder
-
½ tsp onion powder
-
½ tsp sugar (optional)
-
Salt and pepper to taste
For the topping:
-
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
-
½ cup grated Parmesan (optional)
-
Pepperoni slices, vegetables, or other toppings of choice
For the pan:
-
2 tbsp olive oil (for greasing the pan, helps create the signature thick crust)
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
-
In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast.
-
Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
-
Tip: If the yeast doesn’t foam, it might be dead. Start over with fresh yeast.
-
Step 2: Make the Dough
-
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
-
Add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
-
Mix until a dough forms. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook or knead by hand.
-
Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
-
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1–1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
-
In a medium bowl, mix tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, sugar, salt, and pepper.
-
Taste and adjust seasoning. Set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Pan
-
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
-
Generously grease a 12-inch round cake pan or pizza pan with 1 tbsp olive oil.
-
Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two portions if making 2 pizzas.
-
Press one portion of dough into the pan, pushing it slightly up the edges to form a rim.
Step 5: Assemble the Pizza
-
Spread a thin layer of sauce over the dough.
-
Sprinkle 1–2 cups of shredded mozzarella evenly over the sauce.
-
Add toppings of your choice (pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, etc.).
-
Sprinkle a little Parmesan on top for extra flavor.
Step 6: Bake
-
Place the pan in the preheated oven.
-
Bake for 12–18 minutes, depending on your oven, until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
-
Tip: For an extra crispy bottom, preheat your pan in the oven for 5 minutes before adding dough.
-
Step 7: Finish and Serve
-
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for 3–5 minutes.
-
Slice and serve hot.
-
Optional: Drizzle with garlic butter or sprinkle fresh basil for a restaurant touch.
Tips for Pizza Hut-Style Pan Pizza
-
Thick, fluffy crust: Don’t press the dough too thin; let it rise well.
-
Oil in pan: Creates a golden, crispy bottom.
-
Cheese layering: Use plenty of mozzarella and cover edges to make a gooey center.
-
Toppings: Don’t overload; too many can make the pizza soggy.
