Description
This homemade school cafeteria pizza brings back all the childhood memories with its soft, slightly chewy crust, classic sweet and tangy tomato sauce, and melty cheese topping. Baked on a sheet pan and cut into squares, just like the lunchroom favorite, this recipe is perfect for a quick and easy meal that feeds a crowd. Whether you’re reliving school days or introducing your kids to a classic, this nostalgic pizza will be a hit!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Dough:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F)
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp sugar
For the Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for that classic school pizza taste)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and vegetable oil, stirring until a dough forms.
- Knead for 5 minutes, then cover and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In a bowl, mix together tomato sauce, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and sugar. Set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Pizza
- Preheat oven to 450°F.
- Roll out the dough into a large rectangle (about 11×17 inches) and place it on a greased baking sheet.
- Spread the sauce evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella, cheddar (if using), and Parmesan cheese. Add pepperoni, if desired.
Step 4: Bake & Serve
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before slicing into squares. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- For a crispier crust, pre-bake the dough for 5 minutes before adding toppings.
- Make it your own by adding classic toppings like ground beef, sausage, or bell peppers.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F for best results.
- Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked pizza (without cheese) for up to 2 months. Add cheese before baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square slice
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 25mg