If you grew up enjoying school cafeteria pizza, then this School-Style Pizza will bring back some serious memories. With its thick, pillowy crust, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella, this pizza has all the flavors of that classic lunchroom favorite—but made fresh at home with high-quality ingredients. The key to getting that authentic school-style taste lies in the soft and chewy crust, the perfectly seasoned ground beef, and the herb-infused sauce that soaks into the dough just right. Unlike standard thin-crust pizzas, this recipe delivers a deep-dish-like experience that’s both satisfying and comforting.
Whether you’re looking to recreate childhood nostalgia, introduce your kids to a fun homemade version, or just enjoy a simple yet delicious pizza, this recipe is a must-try. Best of all, it’s easy to prepare with everyday pantry staples and comes together in about 30 minutes. Get ready for a trip down memory lane with every cheesy, saucy bite!
Ingredients 🛒
For the crust, you will need 2 ⅔ cups of flour, which provides the perfect foundation for a soft yet sturdy base. To achieve that signature light texture, add ¾ cup of powdered milk—a key ingredient in school pizza dough that enhances flavor and structure. A little bit of sweetness comes from 2 tablespoons of sugar, while 1 packet of quick-rise yeast ensures a fluffy rise. For balance, we add 1 teaspoon of salt, and to bring the dough together, we use 1 ⅔ cups of warm water (between 105-110°F) along with 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil to keep it tender and moist.
For the filling, we use ½ pound of ground chuck, seasoned with ½ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper to enhance its natural flavors. A generous amount of 8 ounces of grated mozzarella cheese creates that irresistible cheesy topping.
The sauce is a simple yet flavorful combination of 6 ounces of tomato paste, 1 cup of water, and ⅓ cup of olive oil, which creates a rich and smooth base. For seasoning, we use 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper to add depth. To bring in classic Italian flavors, we mix in ½ tablespoon of oregano, ½ tablespoon of basil, and ½ teaspoon of rosemary, which give the sauce its aromatic and slightly earthy taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions 👨🍳
1. Prepare the Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C). Lightly spray a half-sheet pan with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered milk, sugar, yeast, and salt, whisking until evenly mixed. Next, add the warm water and vegetable oil, stirring until a soft dough forms. Using your fingers, gently spread the dough across the prepared pan. If the dough is too sticky or resistant, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before continuing to stretch it. Once the dough is evenly spread, bake it for 8-10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and set it aside.
2. Cook the Filling:
While the crust is baking, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground chuck. Cook until the meat is browned, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper, then drain any excess fat. Set the cooked meat aside while you prepare the sauce.
3. Make the Sauce and Assemble the Pizza:
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the tomato paste, water, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and rosemary until well combined. The sauce should be smooth, fragrant, and slightly thick. Spread an even layer of sauce over the pre-baked crust, making sure to leave a small border around the edges. Next, sprinkle the browned ground beef evenly over the sauce, followed by a generous layer of grated mozzarella cheese.
4. Bake and Serve:
Return the assembled pizza to the oven and bake at 475°F for another 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to cut. Serve warm and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe!
✅ Thick, pillowy crust – just like the classic school cafeteria version!
✅ Easy to make – no complicated techniques or fancy ingredients needed.
✅ Rich, flavorful sauce – packed with garlic, basil, and oregano.
✅ Cheesy and hearty – the perfect combination of melted mozzarella and seasoned beef.
✅ Kid-friendly and nostalgic – a fun way to relive childhood memories!
This School-Style Pizza is not only delicious but also highly customizable! Want to add more toppings? Try pepperoni, mushrooms, green peppers, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra flavor. You can also swap out the ground chuck for Italian sausage or turkey for a different twist.
Would you like to add a side dish to complete your meal? Some garlic bread, a simple salad, or even classic tater tots would pair perfectly! Let us know how your pizza turns out! 🍕😍
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