Description of this recipe
This School Pizza Recipe is a nostalgic nod to the classic cafeteria-style pizza that many of us enjoyed during our school days. It features a delightful combination of savory ground beef, zesty turkey pepperoni, and a medley of colorful vegetables, all layered on a perfectly baked crust. This recipe is simple enough for kids to help with, making it a great family activity, and the end result is a delicious, cheesy pizza that everyone will love.
Why you will love this recipe
You’ll love this School Pizza Recipe for its ease of preparation and the ability to customize it to your family’s taste. Whether you prefer extra veggies, a different type of meat, or a blend of cheeses, this recipe serves as a great base for creativity. Plus, it’s a quick meal option that can be made in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a fun weekend treat.
Introduction
Pizza is one of those universal foods that brings people together. Whether it’s a casual family dinner, a birthday party, or just a cozy night in, pizza has a way of making any occasion feel special. This School Pizza Recipe is inspired by the classic square slices served in school cafeterias, but with a homemade twist. With its golden crust, hearty toppings, and gooey cheese, this pizza is sure to evoke fond memories while creating new ones with your family.
In this recipe, we’ll guide you through each step to create a delicious pizza that rivals your favorite pizzeria. It’s a fantastic way to involve kids in the kitchen, as they can help with everything from rolling out the dough to sprinkling the cheese. So, grab your apron, and let’s get started on this delightful School Pizza!
Ingredients:
- 1 roll premade pizza dough
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ lb. lean ground beef
- 2 tbsp tomato sauce
- 1 cup turkey pepperoni (mini-sized)
- ½ cup onions, chopped
- ½ cup bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 1 ½ cup mozzarella cheese
- ¼ tsp paprika powder
- ¼ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the lean ground beef. Use a spatula to break the meat apart as it cooks, allowing it to brown evenly. This should take about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Once the beef has changed color, add the tomato sauce, paprika powder, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything together well and continue to cook until the beef is fully cooked through. This will enhance the flavors and ensure the meat is seasoned perfectly. Set the mixture aside.
Step 3: While the beef is cooking, chop the onions and bell peppers into small pieces. This will add a nice crunch and flavor to the pizza.
Step 4: Lightly grease a baking tray with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent the pizza from sticking. Unroll the premade pizza dough onto the tray. Using your fingers, flatten it out evenly until it covers the entire surface of the tray.
Step 5: To prevent bubbles from forming during baking, pierce the dough in several places using a fork. Once that’s done, spread the pizza sauce evenly across the surface of the dough. Add the cooked ground beef mixture, distributing it evenly. Then, sprinkle the chopped onions and bell peppers over the beef. Top it all off with the mozzarella cheese, ensuring it’s spread evenly, and finish with the turkey pepperoni on top.
Step 6: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once preheated, place the baking tray in the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and once the cheese is bubbling and the crust is golden brown, it’s ready to come out.
Step 7: Remove the tray from the oven and let the pizza cool slightly before cutting it into squares. Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
This School Pizza pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad, garlic bread, or a side of marinara sauce for dipping. For a fun twist, consider serving it with a variety of toppings on the side, allowing everyone to customize their slices to their liking!
Tips:
- Feel free to substitute the ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- You can use any combination of vegetables you have on hand, such as mushrooms, olives, or spinach.
- For a spicier kick, add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- If you prefer a thicker crust, use two rolls of premade pizza dough and stack them.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
- Protein: 18g
- Sodium: 600mg
Conclusion
This School Pizza Recipe is not only a delicious and satisfying meal but also a wonderful opportunity to bring family and friends together in the kitchen. Easy to prepare and customizable, it’s a dish that can suit any palate. Whether you’re reliving your school days or introducing this classic to a new generation, this pizza is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of premade?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite pizza dough recipe, feel free to use it. Just make sure to roll it out to fit your baking tray. - What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian option. - How can 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. - Can I freeze this pizza?
Yes, you can freeze the pizza before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. - What other toppings can I add?
The possibilities are endless! Consider adding mushrooms, olives, jalapeños, or different types of cheese to make it your own. Enjoy experimenting with flavors!
