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To make great pizza, start with the dough. First, we combine dry ingredients. In a large bowl, mix together: - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast - ¾ teaspoon salt - 1 teaspoon sugar Next, add the liquids. Pour in: - ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F) - 1 tablespoon olive oil Stir until a rough dough forms. Now it's time to knead the dough. Transfer it to a floured surface. Knead for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want it smooth and elastic. This step is key for a good crust. After kneading, let the dough rise. This first rise is very important. Place the dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a kitchen towel. Let it sit in a warm place for about 1 hour. The dough should double in size. Once it has risen, it’s time to shape the dough. Punch it down gently. Turn it out onto a floured surface. Use your fingers to press it into a round shape. Make it slightly larger than your skillet. This way, it fits perfectly. Now, let’s prepare the cast iron skillet. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). During the last 10 minutes of the dough rising, place your skillet inside the oven. This helps create a crispy crust. Carefully remove the hot skillet. Drizzle a little olive oil in the pan. Lay the shaped dough into the skillet. Press it out evenly across the bottom and up the sides. Next, it's time for toppings. Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough. Use: - 1 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade) - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese - ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 cup assorted toppings (like bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, olives, or pepperoni) Add your favorite toppings on top of the cheese. Now, bake the pizza. Place the skillet back in the oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Look for bubbling cheese and a golden brown crust. Finally, remove the pizza from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes. Scatter fresh basil leaves over the top before you slice. Enjoy your perfect cast iron skillet pizza! For the complete process, check out the Full Recipe. To get the best crust, you need a hot skillet. Preheat the skillet in the oven at 475°F. This step helps create a crispy bottom. To avoid soggy pizza, use less sauce. Spread it thinly on the dough. Drain wet toppings like mushrooms or fresh tomatoes before adding. This keeps your pizza light and crunchy. Baking times vary by oven. Check your pizza after 15 minutes. If the cheese isn't bubbling, let it bake a bit longer. The crust should be golden brown, so keep an eye on it. Seasoning your skillet is key. It keeps the pan non-stick and adds flavor. After cleaning, apply a thin layer of oil. Heat the skillet on low for about 10 minutes. This process protects the cast iron. To maintain your skillet, avoid soap. Instead, rinse with hot water. Use a brush or a scrubber if needed. Dry it well, then oil it lightly. This keeps it ready for your next pizza night! {{image_2}} You can change the dough to suit your taste. Whole wheat flour gives a nutty flavor. It also adds more fiber. If you need gluten-free, many mixes work well. Look for those that promise a good rise. You can also try different crust styles. A thin crust is crispy and light. A thick crust is chewy and soft. If you want something fun, try a stuffed crust. This adds cheese inside the edge for a tasty surprise. Classic toppings like pepperoni and mushrooms are always a hit. But don’t be afraid to go gourmet. Try prosciutto and arugula for a fancy touch. You can also mix in seasonal veggies like zucchini or butternut squash. They add freshness and flavor to your pizza. Think about your favorite flavors. Sweet and spicy combinations can be great too. Consider adding honey or chili oil for a unique twist. The options are endless! You can make your own pizza sauce at home. Use crushed tomatoes, garlic, and herbs for a fresh taste. If you’re short on time, store-bought sauce works just fine. Just look for one with good quality ingredients. Want to get creative? Try pesto or barbecue sauce instead of traditional tomato sauce. A white sauce made from ricotta or cream can change everything. Each sauce brings out different flavors in your toppings. For the full recipe, check out the delicious Cast Iron Skillet Pizza. To keep your leftover pizza fresh, I recommend refrigerating it. First, let it cool to room temperature. Then, wrap each slice in plastic wrap or foil. This keeps the moisture in and prevents it from drying out. Place the wrapped slices in an airtight container. Stored this way, your pizza will last for about 3-4 days in the fridge. When you're ready to enjoy your leftover pizza, the best way to reheat it is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the slices on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. This method maintains the crust’s crispiness while warming the toppings. You can also use a skillet on the stove. Heat it over medium-low heat and cover it. This will warm the pizza nicely while keeping the crust crunchy. If you want to save pizza for later, freezing is a great option. Start by letting the pizza cool completely. Then, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap. After that, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. Your pizza can stay good in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat your frozen pizza, defrost it in the fridge overnight. This helps it thaw evenly. To reheat, place the slices in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes. If you're in a hurry, you can microwave it. Heat for 1-2 minutes, but the crust may not be as crispy. For the best taste and texture, stick with the oven method. Now you can enjoy your Cast Iron Skillet Pizza any time you want! If you’re curious about the full process, check out the Full Recipe. Can I use a different type of skillet? Yes, you can use a non-stick or stainless steel skillet. However, a cast iron skillet gives the best crust. It holds heat well and creates a crispy bottom. If you choose another skillet, adjust your cooking time. How do I prevent sticking in my cast iron skillet? To prevent sticking, ensure your skillet is well-seasoned. Before adding the dough, heat the skillet and add a little olive oil. Coat the bottom and sides evenly. This helps the pizza slide out easily after baking. What’s the best way to clean my cast iron after cooking? After cooking, let your skillet cool. Rinse it with hot water. Use a soft sponge to scrub off food bits. Avoid soap, as it can strip the seasoning. Dry it completely and apply a thin layer of oil to keep it seasoned. For more tips and a detailed recipe, check out the Full Recipe for Cast Iron Skillet Pizza. You learned how to make delicious cast iron skillet pizza. We covered key ingredients, including flour, yeast, and toppings. I provided step-by-step instructions for making the dough, baking it, and adding your favorite toppings. Tips helped you perfect the crust and keep your skillet seasoned. Enjoy experimenting with variations like different doughs and sauces. Remember, leftovers can be stored and reheated for later meals. With these guidelines, you’ll create tasty pizzas every time. Enjoy your cooking!

Cast Iron Skillet Pizza

Indulge in homemade Cast Iron Skillet Pizza that's sure to impress! This easy recipe guides you through making the perfect crispy crust, topped with gooey cheese and your favorite ingredients. From preparing the dough to baking it to golden perfection, you’ll love every step. Ready to elevate your pizza nights? Click to explore this delicious recipe and bring the joy of homemade pizza to your table!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast

¾ teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon sugar

¾ cup warm water (about 110°F)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup assorted toppings (sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, olives, pepperoni, etc.)

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, salt, and sugar. Add warm water and olive oil. Mix until a rough dough forms.

    Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

      First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

        Preheat the Skillet: During the last 10 minutes of rising, place a cast iron skillet in the oven and preheat it to 475°F (245°C).

          Shape the Dough: Once risen, punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Press it out with your fingers to create a round shape slightly larger than the skillet.

            Transfer the Dough: Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. Drizzle a little olive oil in the skillet, then lay the dough into the pan, pressing it out evenly along the bottom and up the sides.

              Add Toppings: Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, followed by the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Add your choice of assorted toppings on top.

                Bake the Pizza: Return the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and the crust is golden brown.

                  Finish and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. Scatter fresh basil leaves over the top before slicing.

                    Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 1 hr 35 min | Servings: 4

                      - Presentation Tips: Serve slices hot from the skillet, garnished with extra fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch.