Description of this recipe: This recipe recreates the iconic rectangle pizza served in school cafeterias, bringing back nostalgic memories with every bite. This version uses a simple homemade crust and classic toppings for a satisfying and familiar taste.
Why you will love this recipe:
- Nostalgia: It captures the essence of school lunch pizza, evoking fond memories.
- Easy to make: The recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, making it accessible for home cooks.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the toppings to suit your preferences.
- Crowd-pleaser: It’s perfect for parties, family dinners, or a fun weekend meal.
- Kid-friendly: Kids will love the familiar taste and rectangular shape.
Ingredients:
Pizza Crust
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided in half
- 2 tablespoons yellow cornmeal
- 2¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup instant nonfat dry milk powder
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2½ tablespoons granulated sugar
- 0.25 ounce quick-rise yeast (2½ teaspoons), also known as instant yeast
- 1⅔-2 cups warm water (105°F)
Topping
- ½ pound lean ground beef
- ½ pound mild Italian sausage
- 1¾ cups pizza sauce
- 4 cups freshly shredded mozzarella
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Preheat the oven to 475°F (246°C). Coat the entire surface of an 18×13 inch rimmed baking sheet (also known as a half sheet tray) with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle the surface with the yellow cornmeal to prevent the crust from sticking after baking. Set aside. Ensuring the pan is properly prepared is paramount, as this step is critical to successfully remove the pizza.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, add the all-purpose flour, instant nonfat dry milk powder, salt, granulated sugar, and quick-rise yeast. The dry milk powder helps to create a tender crust. Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed for a consistent dough.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients and Mix
With the mixer on low speed, slowly pour in the warm water to the dry ingredients. Begin with 1⅔ cups of warm water (about 105°F or 40°C). You may need to add a tablespoon of water at a time, up to a maximum of 2 cups, to achieve the desired pourable consistency. The dough should be similar to a thick pancake batter. It’s best to add water gradually to prevent the dough from becoming too wet.
Step 4: Mix Until Smooth
Continue to mix on low speed for 2 to 3 minutes, or until a smooth, pourable dough forms. A few small lumps are acceptable, but avoid overmixing. The consistency should be thick enough to spread evenly but thin enough to pour. Proper mixing ensures the gluten develops, creating a slightly chewy texture.
Step 5: Pour and Spread Dough
Pour the batter into the prepared rimmed baking sheet and gently spread the dough into an even layer that covers the entire surface. Use a spatula or your hands to ensure the dough reaches all corners. A uniform layer ensures even baking.
Step 6: Rest the Dough
Allow the dough to rest in the pan for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a more tender crust. Do not skip this step.
Step 7: Bake the Crust
Bake the pizza crust on the lower rack of your oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until it begins to turn golden. This pre-baking step helps the crust to become firm and slightly crisp, preventing it from becoming soggy once the toppings are added.
Step 8: Prepare the Meat Topping
While the pizza crust is baking, prepare the toppings. In a large 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and mild Italian sausage for 7 to 8 minutes, or until no pink remains. Break the meat up as it cooks to resemble the topping on school pizzas.
Step 9: Drain Excess Fat
Transfer the cooked meats to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess fat. Removing excess fat helps prevent a greasy pizza.
Step 10: Add Pizza Sauce
Once the crust has baked for 10 to 12 minutes, remove it from the oven and evenly spread the pizza sauce over the top. Distribute the sauce evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
Step 11: Add Mozzarella Cheese (First Layer)
Sprinkle 2 cups of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, creating an even layer. Mozzarella is the classic choice for pizza, offering a mild flavor and excellent melting properties.
Step 12: Add Meat Topping
Next, evenly sprinkle the cooked meat topping over the cheese. Distribute the meat uniformly for a balanced flavor profile.
Step 13: Add Mozzarella Cheese (Second Layer)
Top the meat with the remaining 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese. A generous layer of cheese is essential for that classic, cheesy pizza experience.
Step 14: Season with Italian Seasoning
Lastly, sprinkle the dried Italian seasoning over the cheese. Italian seasoning adds a fragrant and savory note to the pizza.
Step 15: Bake the Pizza
Return the pizza to the oven and bake on the middle rack for an additional 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The middle rack ensures even heat distribution for perfect melting.
Step 16: Slice and Serve
Carefully slice the pizza into 12 rectangular pieces and serve immediately. Using a pizza cutter or a large knife, slice the pizza into the iconic rectangle shapes, evoking memories of school lunches.
COOKING Rating: 4/5 (Easy to moderate)
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side salad for a balanced meal.
- Pair with a glass of milk or juice for a classic school lunch experience.
- Offer additional toppings like vegetables or pepperoni for customization.
- Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
Tips:
- Use high-quality mozzarella cheese for the best melting results.
- Pre-bake the crust to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Adjust the amount of meat and cheese to your preference.
- For a crispier crust, bake the pizza directly on the oven rack for the last few minutes.
- If you don’t have a stand mixer, you can mix the dough by hand.
Prep Time: 25 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutritional Information: (estimated, may vary based on specific ingredients)
Calories: 350-450 per slice Protein: 20-25g per slice Sodium: 500-700mg per slice
Conclusion:
This Rectangle School Pizza recipe brings back the comforting flavors of childhood with a homemade twist. It’s a fun and easy meal to prepare, perfect for family dinners, parties, or a nostalgic treat. Enjoy recreating this classic pizza and making new memories with every slice!
Questions and Answers:
Question 1: Can I use a different type of cheese?
Answer: Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses. Keep in mind that different cheeses will have varying melting properties and flavor profiles, so adjust accordingly to suit your taste preferences.
Question 2: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Answer: Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. After mixing, place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to use, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before spreading it onto the baking sheet.
Question 3: Can I add vegetables to this pizza?
Answer: Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or olives can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the pizza. Sauté the vegetables lightly before adding them as toppings to prevent them from making the pizza soggy.
Question 4: What can I use if I don’t have dry milk powder?
Answer: If you don’t have dry milk powder, you can omit it, but the crust may not be as tender. Alternatively, you can use regular milk in place of the water, but reduce the amount of water slightly and monitor the dough consistency.
Question 5: How do I store leftover pizza?
Answer: Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the slices in the oven, microwave, or skillet until warmed through. For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain the crust’s crispiness.
The Rectangle School Pizza Recipe is a beloved classic that combines ease of preparation with nostalgic flavors. The careful balance of ingredients and the precise cooking times are essential to recreating that iconic taste. With a few simple steps, anyone can bring a piece of their childhood back to their kitchen. This versatile recipe is not just about replicating a familiar dish but also about creating new traditions and memories. The combination of a simple homemade crust, savory meat toppings, and the perfect blend of cheese makes this pizza a guaranteed hit for both kids and adults. Whether you’re looking to relive old memories or create new ones, the Rectangle School Pizza is the perfect choice. The recipe can be easily adapted to suit individual preferences, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a slice of this classic pizza. Remember to adjust the amount of meat and cheese to your liking, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings. The key is to have fun and enjoy the process of creating a delicious and memorable meal. From the careful preparation of the baking sheet to the final sprinkle of Italian seasoning, every step contributes to the overall success of the dish. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a culinary journey back to the school cafeteria with this delightful Rectangle School Pizza Recipe.
