If you’ve ever dreamed of pizza with a crackling, golden crust and gooey, melty cheese—all done in a fraction of the time it takes for delivery—this Cast Iron Skillet Pizza Recipe will absolutely thrill you. Using a trusty cast iron pan, you’ll get that iconic pizzeria crunch on the outside, plus a pillowy, chewy bite in every slice. Whether you pile on sausage and pepperoni or go wild with your favorite toppings, this is the kind of meal that brings everyone running to the table, eager to snatch a hot, cheesy slice while it’s still bubbling from the oven.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the joys of this Cast Iron Skillet Pizza Recipe is how a handful of humble ingredients come together to create pure magic. Each component plays a special role—from flavor-packed sauce to crave-worthy cheese—making every bite unforgettable.
- Olive oil: Essential for crisping up the crust and ensuring nothing sticks to your skillet.
- Pizza dough: The foundation of your pizza—go for store-bought or homemade, just make sure it’s at room temperature for easy stretching.
- Pizza sauce: A punch of tomato flavor that ties all the toppings together; don’t skimp, but don’t drown your dough either.
- Shredded mozzarella: The melty, stretchy hero—pile it on for ultimate pizza pull.
- Shredded parmesan (optional): Adds a layer of nutty, salty depth alongside mozzarella; totally worth it if you love extra flavor.
- Cooked crumbled sausage: Classic and hearty—just be sure it’s fully cooked before scattering over your pizza.
- Finely chopped pepperoni: Dots the pizza with spicy, smoky bites that get deliciously crisp in the oven.
How to Make Cast Iron Skillet Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Skillet
Start by cranking your oven up to 500˚F—yes, it sounds high, but that heat is crucial for a caramelized crust. Pop your 12-inch cast iron skillet straight into the oven and let it heat for a full 10 minutes. This blazing hot base makes all the difference for that coveted crisp texture.
Step 2: Oil and Shape the Dough
Once your skillet is rocket-hot, carefully remove it (oven mitts, always!) and pour in the olive oil. Swirl to coat every nook of the pan, then quickly and gently press your pizza dough into the skillet, making sure to push some of the edges up the side for a hearty, tall crust.
Step 3: Sauce and Cheese It Up
Ladle on the pizza sauce in an even layer, spreading to the very edge if you love a saucy bite in every mouthful. Next, shower the dough with mozzarella—and parmesan, if you have it—remembering to sprinkle right up to the edges for those irresistible golden cheese bubbles.
Step 4: Layer On the Toppings
Time for sausage and pepperoni! Scatter both evenly over your cheesy base. This is also the moment to get creative: slip in a few olives, onions, or bell peppers if you’re feeling adventurous.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Carefully slide the skillet back into the oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is beautifully browned. Every oven is a bit different, so keep an eye on that golden edge!
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Once the pizza emerges, let it cool for about 5 minutes—this helps the cheese set just enough and prevents pizza burns (we’ve all been there). Then, slide out your pizza, slice it up, and summon your appetite.
How to Serve Cast Iron Skillet Pizza Recipe
Garnishes
A scatter of fresh basil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes instantly elevates each slice. For a touch of brightness, add a few shavings of parmesan or even a light drizzle of good olive oil. Let everyone garnish their own piece just the way they like it—half the fun is customizing!
Side Dishes
Pair your Cast Iron Skillet Pizza Recipe with a crisp green salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette, or serve chewy breadsticks for extra carb happiness. Roasted veggies or a tangy slaw also make wonderful companions, rounding out the meal with color and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your pizza straight from the sizzling skillet for that dramatic, wow-worthy moment at the table. For a party, slice into finger-friendly squares so guests can mingle as they munch. You can also prepare individual mini-skillet pizzas using smaller pans, letting everyone personalize their toppings for a pizza night to remember.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you manage to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The Cast Iron Skillet Pizza Recipe holds up surprisingly well for up to three days, making a fantastic quick lunch or snack.
Freezing
Want pizza at a moment’s notice? Cool slices completely, wrap each tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Your Cast Iron Skillet Pizza Recipe will keep for up to two months, ready for cravings or last-minute guests.
Reheating
For crisp results, reheat slices in the oven or toaster oven at 375˚F for 8–10 minutes—the crust will revive, and the cheese gets bubbly again. Microwaving works in a pinch, but you’ll lose some of that irresistible crunch, so use the oven when you can.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought dough for this Cast Iron Skillet Pizza Recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough makes this recipe wonderfully convenient. Just let it come to room temperature for easy stretching—cold dough will resist shaping.
Do I need to pre-cook the toppings?
For meats like sausage, yes—always fully cook them before adding to your pizza. Veggies can go on raw, as they’ll cook up nicely in the high heat.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Mozzarella is classic, but you can absolutely mix things up with provolone, fontina, or even a sprinkle of goat cheese. Get creative, and make it your own!
What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?
A heavy oven-safe skillet is the closest substitute, but cast iron delivers the best crisp, golden crust. This Cast Iron Skillet Pizza Recipe is worth tracking down a skillet if you can!
How do I prevent sticking?
A generous swirl of olive oil in your hot skillet creates a barrier and makes for an easy release. Be sure to preheat both the oven and the pan—this step is key to non-stick perfection.
Final Thoughts
Homemade pizza should be joyful, simple, and packed with flavor, and this Cast Iron Skillet Pizza Recipe delivers every single time. So gather your favorite toppings, get your skillet ready, and dive into homemade pizza night—you’ll be hooked from the very first slice!
PrintCast Iron Skillet Pizza Recipe
This Cast Iron Skillet Pizza recipe yields a fluffy, chewy dough with a crispy, satisfying crust. Customize with your favorite toppings like sausage and pepperoni for a delicious meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Olive Oil:
- 2 tablespoons
Pizza Dough:
- 1 pound
Pizza Sauce:
- 1/4 cup
Shredded Mozzarella:
- 1 1/2 cups
Shredded Parmesan (optional):
- 1/4 cup
Cooked Crumbled Sausage:
- 1/4 cup
Finely Chopped Pepperoni:
- 1/4 cup
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 500˚F.
- Carefully remove the pan from the oven and add the olive oil.
- Spoon the pizza sauce over the dough in an even layer.
- Evenly distribute both the sausage and pepperoni over the cheese.
- Return the skillet to the oven and bake the pizza for approximately 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and the crust is golden.
Place a 12-inch cast iron skillet in the oven and heat for 10 minutes.
Move the pan around to coat the skillet with the oil and then carefully spread the dough evenly over the bottom of the skillet pressing the excess up the sides of the pan.
Sprinkle both cheeses over the surface of the dough, going to the edge of the crust for crispy, golden bits.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes before cutting into slices and serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
