Description

A quick and easy weeknight dinner featuring crispy, cheesy pepperoni pizza baked in a hot cast iron skillet using store-bought dough for maximum convenience and flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound pizza dough (store-bought refrigerated tube or local bakery)
10-inch or 12-inch cast iron skillet
½ cup marinara sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups low-moisture mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 package pepperoni (about 16 slices, cup and char style)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) with the cast iron skillet inside for 15 minutes to ensure a crispy bottom.
Remove dough from package and let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes until soft.
Lightly flour counter and stretch or roll dough into the hot skillet, pressing it to cover the bottom and go slightly up the sides.
Brush dough with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder.
Spread marinara sauce evenly, leaving a half-inch border around the edge.
Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Lay pepperoni slices on top, pressing down slightly to help them crisp.
Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if using.
Carefully remove hot skillet from oven, add toppings if not already done, and return to oven.
Bake for 12-15 minutes until crust is golden brown and cheese edges are crispy.
Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow cheese to set.
Sprinkle with fresh basil, slice, and serve immediately.

Notes

Preheating the skillet in the oven is crucial for a crispy bottom crust. Shred your own cheese to avoid anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Let the pizza rest for 5 minutes before slicing to prevent cheese from sliding off. For variations, try white pizza, veggie lover’s, or BBQ chicken.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (based on 4
Calories: 450
Sodium: 680
Fat: 22
Carbohydrates: 42
Protein: 18

Keywords: cast iron pizza, pepperoni pizza, weeknight dinner, easy pizza, crispy crust, skillet pizza, family dinner, quick meals