This School Pizza Recipe is a nostalgic nod to the beloved cafeteria classic that many of us grew up enjoying. With its deliciously crispy crust, savory beef, and gooey mozzarella, this pizza is a crowd-pleaser that can be made quickly and easily, making it perfect for family dinners, parties, or a fun night in.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this recipe because it combines simplicity with flavor, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in no time. The use of premade pizza dough means you can skip the labor-intensive process of making dough from scratch, while the array of toppings—from seasoned ground beef to colorful bell peppers—ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Plus, this recipe is versatile; you can customize it with your favorite toppings, making it a great choice for picky eaters and adventurous foodies alike.
Introduction
Pizza is one of those universal comfort foods that brings people together. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, a good pizza can elevate the mood and satisfy even the heartiest of appetites. This School Pizza Recipe is particularly special because it evokes memories of school lunches and cafeteria gatherings, where a slice of cheesy goodness was a highlight of the day. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can recreate this nostalgic dish in your own kitchen, bringing joy to your family and friends.
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 medium-sized saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the lean ground beef. Use a spatula to break the meat apart as it cooks. Stir occasionally, cooking until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add the tomato sauce, paprika powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the cooked ground beef. Mix well to combine all the ingredients. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Once done, remove the mixture from heat and set aside.
Step 3: While the beef mixture is cooling, chop the onions and bell peppers into small, bite-sized pieces. This will ensure even distribution of flavors across your pizza.
Step 4: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking tray with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Roll out the premade pizza dough on the baking tray, using your fingers to flatten it evenly until it covers the entire tray.
Step 5: To prevent bubbles from forming during baking, pierce the surface of the dough in several places with a fork. Next, spread the pizza sauce evenly across the surface of the dough. Layer the cooked ground beef mixture evenly over the sauce, followed by the chopped onions and bell peppers. Finally, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese generously over the top, and finish with the mini turkey pepperoni.
Place the baking tray in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the crust is golden brown. Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and allow the pizza to cool slightly before cutting it into squares. Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
This School Pizza pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some crunchy carrot sticks for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a side of marinara sauce for dipping or sprinkle some fresh basil or oregano on top for added flavor. For a fun twist, consider offering a variety of toppings on the side so everyone can customize their slices.
Tips:
- Feel free to substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar or provolone for a unique flavor profile.
- If you want to add more vegetables, consider topping the pizza with mushrooms, spinach, or olives.
- For a spicy kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 350 per serving (based on 8 servings)
- Protein: 18g
- Sodium: 600mg
Conclusion
This School Pizza Recipe is a delightful way to bring back memories of childhood while enjoying a delicious meal with your loved ones. Its simplicity and versatility make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can create a dish that is sure to please everyone at the table. So gather your family, roll out that dough, and get ready to enjoy a slice of nostalgia!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of premade?
Yes, absolutely! If you prefer homemade dough, feel free to use your favorite recipe. Just ensure it’s rolled out to fit your baking tray.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.
3. Can I freeze this pizza?
Yes, you can freeze the pizza before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
4. What can I use as a substitute for turkey pepperoni?
You can use regular pepperoni, salami, or any other favorite cured meat. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, consider using sliced mushrooms or extra veggies.
5. Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Absolutely! This pizza is a great option for kids, and they can even help with the preparation. It’s a fun way to get them involved in the kitchen while enjoying a meal they’ll love.