Print

Crispy Cast Iron Loaded Deep Dish Pizza Skillet Recipe Easy and Perfect for Pizza Lovers

cast iron deep dish pizza skillet - featured image

A quick and easy deep dish pizza made in a cast iron skillet with a crispy crust, melty cheese, and loaded toppings. Perfect for busy weeknights and customizable for various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp instant yeast
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup (180ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (plus 1 tbsp for skillet)
  • 1 cup (240ml) canned crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (about 200g)
  • 1 cup pepperoni slices (optional)
  • 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms, sautéed
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives
  • Handful of fresh basil, torn for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.
  2. Add warm water and olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon until dough starts to form.
  3. Knead dough by hand on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add flour if sticky.
  4. Transfer dough to an oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 30-40 minutes or until doubled in size.
  5. While dough rises, combine crushed tomatoes, minced garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper in a small saucepan.
  6. Simmer sauce gently over low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Set aside to cool.
  7. Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C) and place cast iron skillet inside to heat.
  8. Sauté mushrooms in a little olive oil until browned and moisture evaporates (about 5 minutes). Prepare other toppings.
  9. Punch down risen dough and roll out on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle.
  10. Remove hot skillet from oven using mitts and drizzle 1 tbsp olive oil to coat bottom and sides.
  11. Press dough into skillet, pushing up sides to create thick crust edge.
  12. Spread a thin layer of sauce over dough, sprinkle half the mozzarella evenly.
  13. Layer pepperoni, bell peppers, mushrooms, and olives.
  14. Top with remaining mozzarella and a few dollops of sauce.
  15. Bake skillet pizza in oven for 20-25 minutes until crust is golden and cheese bubbly. Check after 15 minutes and cover edges with foil if browning too fast.
  16. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
  17. Garnish with torn fresh basil and slice carefully using a spatula.

Notes

Preheat the skillet thoroughly to ensure a crispy crust. Sauté mushrooms to reduce moisture and prevent sogginess. Cover edges with foil if browning too fast. Let pizza rest before slicing for cleaner cuts. For gluten-free, substitute flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend. For dairy-free, use plant-based cheese that melts well. Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat to revive crispness.

Nutrition

Keywords: deep dish pizza, cast iron skillet pizza, loaded pizza, crispy crust pizza, easy pizza recipe, weeknight dinner, comfort food