You might have heard of cast iron skillet pizza if you’re a pizza lover. It’s a delicious alternative to traditional pizza cooked on a stone. And the best part is that you can make it in just 30 minutes!
When you cook your pizza in a cast iron skillet, you get a crisp bottom and a soft, chewy center that is just perfect. It’s like a deep-dish pizza, but not as deep. You can customize your skillet pizza with any toppings you like and get creative with different combinations. Whether you love a classic Margherita pizza or a meat lover’s delight, you can make it all with a cast iron skillet.
Crispy Skillet Iron Pizza Recipe
So, if you’re tired of the traditional pizza and want to try something new, ditch the pizza stone and give cast iron skillet pizza a try. It’s easy, quick, and delicious!
Ingredients
- 1 pound of fresh pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cornmeal for sprinkling
- Sea salt and cracked black pepper
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup of pepperoni
- 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons fresh pesto
- 1 tablespoon raw honey
- Chilli flanks
Instructions
- Start by preheating the oven to the highest temperature (around 550°F).
- Heat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking.
- Test your pizza dough into a round shape that fits the skillet.
- Sprinkle flour and cornmeal in the skillet and place the dough inside, pulling it up the sides.
- Brush olive oil over the dough.
- Cook the dough on the stovetop until it bubbles, then season with salt and pepper.
- Add marinara sauce, cheese, tomatoes, and pepperoni.
- Bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Once the cast pizza is baked, remove it from the oven and promptly brush the spicy honey mixture over the crust. This will impart a delightful sweetness to the crust’s surface.
- Let the pizza sit for a few minutes before cutting.
- Optionally, drizzle fresh pesto over the pizza before serving.
Cast Iron Pizza Recipe Tips
- If the pesto is too thick for drizzling, thin it with olive oil until it reaches your desired consistency. Use fresh pesto for the best results, whether homemade or store-bought from the refrigerated section.
- When applying marinara sauce to the dough, don’t worry about spills onto the crust; it enhances flavor as the tomato caramelizes.
- Try the honey method mentioned above for a sweet touch to add flavor to your crust pizza.
- Alternatively, create a garlic and herb crust by brushing olive oil on the dough in the skillet, then brush it with garlic butter and dried Italian herbs. If you don’t have garlic butter, sprinkle on some garlic salt.
- Consider slicing and scattering grape tomatoes on your pizza for a fresh tomato flavor with less moisture.
Cast Pizza Topping Variations
Some classic options include pepperoni, White Pizza, Hawaiian, Margherita, meat lovers, supreme, and BBQ chicken pizza. Feel free to get creative with your favorite ingredients!
Wrapping Up
Cooking pizza in a cast iron skillet is a rewarding experience that allows you to tailor your pizza to your tastes. With this versatile recipe, you can explore various toppings, sauces, and flavor profiles to create the perfect pizza every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make a gluten-free or vegan cast iron pizza?
Yes, you can! Many stores offer gluten-free pizza dough and dairy-free cheese options to accommodate dietary preferences.
What kind of skillet do I need for cast iron pizza?
You’ll want a cast iron skillet with a flat bottom and oven-safe handle. A 10-12 inch skillet works well for most recipes.
How do I prevent the pizza from sticking to the skillet?
To prevent sticking, ensure your skillet is well-seasoned and properly greased with olive oil before placing the dough inside.
