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Lunch Lady Pizza Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 87 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
  • Yield: 8-10 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Lunch Lady Pizza Recipe is a classic homemade pizza featuring a soft, chewy crust made from scratch with active dry yeast, topped with a flavorful tomato sauce seasoned with herbs and garlic, and generous amounts of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Customize it with your favorite toppings like sausage, pepperoni, or vegetables for a delicious family meal perfect for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F)
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

For the Sauce

  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Toppings

  • 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: 1/2 cup cooked sausage, pepperoni, or vegetables (for added toppings)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture: In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water (about 110°F), then sprinkle the active dry yeast on top. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Mix the Dough Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and optional garlic powder. Add the foamy yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then stir until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic, which helps develop gluten for a good pizza crust texture.
  4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until the dough has doubled in size.
  5. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the tomato sauce with dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Shape the Dough: Once risen, punch down the dough to release air bubbles and roll or stretch it into your desired pizza shape on a greased or floured baking sheet or pizza pan.
  7. Assemble the Pizza: Spread the prepared tomato sauce evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses. Add any optional toppings like cooked sausage, pepperoni, or vegetables.
  8. Bake the Pizza: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Bake the pizza on the middle rack for about 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, slice, and enjoy your homemade Lunch Lady Pizza!

Notes

  • Ensure the water is warm but not hot when activating the yeast (around 110°F) to avoid killing the yeast.
  • If you prefer a crispier crust, bake the pizza on a preheated pizza stone or steel.
  • Feel free to customize the toppings to your preference; just ensure any raw meats are pre-cooked.
  • This recipe can be doubled to make larger pizzas or multiple pies.
  • Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/lunch-lady-pizza-recipe/