Crispy Tomato Herb Cheese Pan Pizza Recipe

If you love a crispy crust, fresh tomatoes, and a blend of herbs and cheese, this Crispy Tomato Herb Cheese Pan Pizza is the perfect recipe for you. It’s a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a great choice for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends. This recipe is easy to follow and delivers a mouthwatering homemade pizza that rivals any pizzeria.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 cup warm water (110°F or 45°C)
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Toppings

• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Olive oil (for drizzling)

Preparation

Preparing the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until the dough begins to come together.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Let It Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Preparing the Toppings

1. Halve the Cherry Tomatoes: Rinse the cherry tomatoes and cut them in half.
2. Chop the Basil: Rinse and chop the fresh basil leaves.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Large skillet or pizza pan
• Rolling pin
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a large skillet or pizza pan inside to heat up.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. Roll Out the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into a circle that fits your skillet or pizza pan.
2. Pre-Bake the Crust: Carefully remove the hot skillet or pan from the oven and drizzle it with olive oil. Place the rolled-out dough into the skillet or pan, pressing it to the edges. Bake in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes to set the crust.

Step 3: Add the Toppings

1. Spread the Tomato Sauce: Remove the pre-baked crust from the oven and spread a layer of tomato sauce evenly over the top.
2. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
3. Arrange the Tomatoes and Herbs: Distribute the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped basil evenly over the cheese.
4. Season the Pizza: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the toppings.

Step 4: Bake the Pizza

1. Bake Until Crispy: Return the pizza to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Step 5: Serve

1. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Once the pizza is out of the oven, drizzle a little olive oil over the top for extra flavor.
2. Slice and Serve: Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing it into pieces. Serve hot and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Pair with Sides

• Fresh Salad: Pair your crispy tomato herb cheese pan pizza with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with a side of garlic bread for an extra touch of indulgence.
• Wine Pairing: Enjoy your pizza with a glass of red wine, such as a Chianti or Merlot.

Conclusion

This Crispy Tomato Herb Cheese Pan Pizza is a delicious homemade treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of fresh ingredients and a crispy crust makes it a hit with everyone. Enjoy the flavors of Italy right in your own kitchen with this easy-to-follow recipe.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, you can use store-bought pizza dough if you’re short on time. Just follow the instructions for rolling out and pre-baking the crust.

2. Can I add other toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite toppings like pepperoni, olives, bell peppers, or mushrooms.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

4. Can I make this pizza gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free pizza dough recipe or a store-bought gluten-free dough to make this pizza gluten-free.

5. Can I freeze the pizza dough?

Yes, you can freeze the pizza dough. After kneading, shape it into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and place it in a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Yield: 6

Crispy Tomato Herb Cheese Pan Pizza Recipe

Print

If you love a crispy crust, fresh tomatoes, and a blend of herbs and cheese, this Crispy Tomato Herb Cheese Pan Pizza is the perfect recipe for you. It's a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a great choice for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends. This recipe is easy to follow and delivers a mouthwatering homemade pizza that rivals any pizzeria.

Prep Time 40 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Total Time 1 hour

Ingredients

• 1 pound pizza dough, homemade or store-bought
• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed fennel seed
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1-2 cloves garlic, chopped
• extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded whole milk mozzarella
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 3 ounces pepperoni, sliced (optional)
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan or asiago cheese

Instructions

1.  Position the oven rack in the upper 1/3 of the oven. Preheat the oven to 450° F. for at least 30 minutes before baking.
2. Place the ball of pizza dough in a lightly greased 10-11 inch cast iron or oven-safe skillet. Drizzle olive oil on top of the dough. Use your fingertips to push the dough out to almost the edge of the skillet. Cover with plastic wrap and let rest for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, if time allows.
3. In a small bowl, combine the basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, fennel, and red pepper flakes. Add the garlic.
4. To assemble. Drizzle the dough lightly with olive oil. Sprinkle a spoonful of the herbs over the dough. Add a handful of cheese, then drizzle over the marinara sauce, don't spread the sauce. Top with the remaining cheese, then pepperoni and a sprinkle of the herb mix, you don't need all the herbs, use them to your taste.
5. Bake on the upper rack for 10 minutes. Then rotate the pizza and bake another 10 minutes or until the crust is crispy on the edges. Top with additional parmesan. ENJOY!