Crispy Sheet Pan Pizza Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of creating the perfect, golden, and irresistible Crispy Sheet Pan Pizza right in your own oven, this recipe is the one you’ve been waiting for. Imagine a delightfully chewy crust with bubbles bursting under a blanket of rich marinara, melted mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan cheeses, all crowned with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Italian herbs. This Crispy Sheet Pan Pizza is not only easy to prepare but also endlessly adaptable, making it an absolute favorite for feeding a crowd or simply treating yourself. Prepare to wow everyone with a flavorful masterpiece that tastes like it came straight from a pizzeria!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are the magic behind your Crispy Sheet Pan Pizza. Each one plays a crucial role—from the flour giving you that perfect crust texture, to the cheeses that create that luscious gooeyness and crispy golden topping you crave. Let’s break down what you’ll need.

• 3 1/2 cups (525 g) all-purpose flour: Bread flour can be used here for an even chewier texture, essential for that perfect pizza base.
• 2 tsp (8 g) sugar: Balances the yeast activity and adds a subtle sweetness to the dough.
• 2 tsp (8 g) salt: Enhances flavor and strengthens the dough’s structure.
• 2 tsp (7 g) instant dry yeast: The powerhouse that makes your dough rise beautifully.
• 2 1/4 cups (470 g) lukewarm water (36-40C/98-105F): The ideal temperature to activate the yeast perfectly without killing it.
• 8 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps in developing a crispy crust.
• 1 cup (250 ml) Marinara Sauce: The savory tomato base that brings everything together.
• 1 cup (100 g) freshly grated cheddar cheese: Melts nicely and adds a sharp punch of flavor.
• 1/4 cup (30 g) finely grated parmesan cheese: Sprinkles umami and a lovely finishing touch to your pizza.
• 2 cups (400 g) low moisture mozzarella, sliced: The gooey, melty star of the pizza toppings.
• Fresh basil leaves: For that fresh, aromatic lift that brightens the whole pie.
• 1 tbsp Italian herbs: A classic blend that takes this pizza’s flavor profile to the next level.

How to Make Crispy Sheet Pan Pizza

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

Start by whisking the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast together in a large bowl. Next, prepare lukewarm water by mixing hot and cold water, then gently incorporate this into your dry ingredients. Mixing with your hand creates a sticky, wet dough that’s key for that chewy texture. Coat the dough with olive oil, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 8 hours to develop flavor and gluten strength. This slow rise is your secret weapon for a beautifully textured crust.

Step 2: Stretching and Resting the Dough

After the fridge rest, unwrap the dough and perform gentle stretches on each side to create gluten strands that enhance chewiness. Then, let the dough relax at room temperature so it becomes easier to handle. Oil your sheet pan generously and spread the dough out—don’t stress if it doesn’t fill every corner; imperfections add charm. Cover it again and let it rest and rise for one to two hours until it’s puffed and bubbly.

Step 3: First Bake with Marinara

Preheat your oven to 200C/400F (adjust if you don’t have a fan-forced oven). Spread half the marinara sauce in blotches over the risen dough, then use your fingers to create charming dimples in the surface. Bake for 20 minutes so the crust starts crisping up while the tomato sauce begins to meld with the bread’s surface. This step lays the flavorful foundation for your toppings.

Step 4: Adding Cheddar and Parmesan

Take the crust out and sprinkle it with freshly grated cheddar and parmesan cheeses. If you want to add vegetables or any other toppings now, this is the perfect time. Pop the pizza back into the oven for 10 minutes. This bake helps meld the sharpness of the cheddar with the nutty parmesan, creating layers of complex taste and a hint of crispiness.

Step 5: Final Bake with Mozzarella

Now add the slices of mozzarella on top for that melt-in-your-mouth experience. Bake for a final 10 minutes until mozzarella is perfectly melted and gooey, and the cheddar edges turn deliciously crispy. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of marinara, and a sprinkle of Italian herbs or even truffle-flavored oil for a gourmet touch. Your Crispy Sheet Pan Pizza is ready to be devoured!

How to Serve Crispy Sheet Pan Pizza

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves are a game-changer, imparting an herbal brightness that lifts every bite. Feel free to add a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a touch of chili flakes for some gentle heat. A few dabs of extra marinara sauce can make your pizza even more saucy and vibrant on the plate.

Side Dishes

Pair your Crispy Sheet Pan Pizza with a crisp green salad tossed in a simple lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted vegetables or garlic bread also make fabulous accompaniments, bringing contrast in texture and flavor while keeping the meal balanced and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your pizza in rustic style by slicing it directly on the sheet pan, or transfer to a wooden board for a charming casual presentation. For parties, create a “DIY toppings” station so everyone can customize slices with additional ingredients like olives, peppers, or fresh arugula for an interactive and festive vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Crispy Sheet Pan Pizza tastes best hot, but leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in your fridge for up to three days. Enjoy cold for a quick snack or reheat to regain some of that freshly baked charm.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They’ll keep well for up to two months without losing much of that signature crispness and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, the oven is your best friend. Place slices on a baking sheet and warm at 180C/350F for about 8 to 10 minutes to restore the crispy crust and melted cheese texture. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that irreplaceable crisp finish.

FAQs

Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Absolutely! Using all-purpose flour will still yield a tasty crust, but bread flour gives you that extra chewiness thanks to its higher protein content. Either way, your Crispy Sheet Pan Pizza will turn out delicious.

Do I have to refrigerate the dough for 8 hours?

The slow rise in the fridge really develops more complex flavors and improves dough texture, but if you’re short on time, a quicker rise at room temperature can work—just expect a less flavorful crust.

Can I add other toppings besides cheese and basil?

Of course! The beauty of the Crispy Sheet Pan Pizza is how customizable it is. Feel free to add veggies, cured meats, or even pineapple. Just add heavier toppings sparingly to keep the crust crispy.

What if my dough is too sticky to handle?

Sticky dough is normal for this recipe—the hydration is high for that chewy texture. Use wet hands to stretch and spread, and don’t add extra flour during shaping or you’ll lose that tender bite.

How long will leftover pizza keep in the fridge?

Leftover pizza slices stored in an airtight container will stay good for up to three days. Make sure to reheat properly for the best experience.

Final Thoughts

Making your own Crispy Sheet Pan Pizza at home is one of life’s simple pleasures that never fails to impress. It’s straightforward, fun, and incredibly rewarding every single time. Whether feeding family, friends, or just indulging yourself, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready for pizza night like you’ve never had before!