Name: Cast Iron Skillet Pizza Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 12 ounces pizza dough (store bought or homemade) (room temperature *SEE NOTES*); 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (use a low moisture block mozzarella instead of fresh for the crispiest crust); 1/2 cup pizza sauce (store bought or homemade); desired pizza toppings

Jump to Recipe

If you’re a fan of crispy, chewy crust, gooey cheese that stretches for miles, and all your favorite toppings bubbling merrily together, Cast Iron Skillet Pizza is about to become your new obsession. This easy pizza method delivers pizzeria-level flavor and crust right from your home oven, all thanks to the magic of a humble cast iron pan. Whether it’s your first homemade pie or your fiftieth, this recipe packs tons of flavor and fun into just a few simple steps. Let’s transform pizza night forever!

Cast Iron Skillet Pizza Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best parts of Cast Iron Skillet Pizza is how everyday ingredients come together for unbeatable results. Each component has a role to play: from the olive oil that crisps the crust to the rich mozzarella for an irresistibly melty topping, and of course, toppings that make it uniquely yours.

Olive Oil: Coats the pan and helps create that golden, crunchy crust—don’t skimp!
Pizza Dough (12 ounces): Letting it come to room temperature makes it much easier to stretch and you’ll get those prized air bubbles in the crust.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups): Opt for a good-quality low moisture block mozzarella for the best melt and crisp edges.
Pizza Sauce (1/2 cup): Whether you use store-bought or go homemade, the sauce is the tangy backbone of your pizza.
Desired Pizza Toppings: Get creative—pepperoni, mushrooms, peppers, onions, or whatever you’re craving tonight!

How to Make Cast Iron Skillet Pizza

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by positioning one oven rack at the very bottom and another at the very top of your oven, then preheat to 450 F (230 C). This setup is the secret to achieving that perfectly crispy pizza base while getting a bubbly, browned top. Grab your trusted cast iron skillet—it’s the only pan that’ll give you that signature crust.

Step 2: Oil and Stretch the Dough

Pour the olive oil into your cast iron pan, making sure to spread it evenly on the bottom and up the sides. Gently stretch your pizza dough (let it rest if it resists!) so it fills the skillet. Use your fingertips to dimple the surface—just like with focaccia! These dimples help trap flavor and create a rustic, bubbly texture.

Step 3: Cheese First, Then Sauce

Here’s the Cast Iron Skillet Pizza trick: scatter shredded mozzarella over the dough first, going all the way to the edges. This creates that crave-worthy, frico-like cheesy crust. Spoon the pizza sauce in generous dots right over the cheese, again spreading it edge to edge. The results? Savory, saucy bites every single time.

Step 4: Top and Bake

Layer on your toppings—this is where your personality shines! Then place the skillet onto the bottom rack. Bake for 18–20 minutes, watching for a deep golden crust and bubbling, browning cheese. Peek at the underside with a spatula; if the bottom needs more color, let it go a little longer. Craving a toastier top? Move the pan to the top rack for 2–3 minutes until everything is gloriously golden.

Step 5: Cool, Slice, and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the pan cool on a wire rack for a couple of minutes. Carefully run a sharp knife around the edges to loosen the crust—this keeps that crunchy edge intact. Slide out the pizza with a spatula to a cutting board, so the bottom stays crispy. Slice it up and dig in while it’s piping hot.

How to Serve Cast Iron Skillet Pizza

Garnishes

Finish your Cast Iron Skillet Pizza with fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of chili flakes, or a drizzle of good olive oil for a burst of flavor and color. Even a dusting of grated parmesan or some fresh oregano takes it right over the top.

Side Dishes

A simple, refreshing salad (think arugula tossed with lemon and parmesan) balances the richness of the pizza beautifully. Marinara for dipping the crust or roasted veggies on the side keep things casual and satisfying—perfect for pizza night!

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd, cut your Cast Iron Skillet Pizza into bite-size squares and serve on a big platter—it makes for a fantastic party snack. Or plate individual slices with a small bowl of dipping sauce or garlic aioli alongside for dipping, letting everyone personalize each bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover pizza slices in foil or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To help the crust retain some crunch, slip a paper towel underneath the slices to absorb excess moisture.

Freezing

Cast Iron Skillet Pizza freezes surprisingly well! Once completely cooled, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then pop them into a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh-tasting for up to two months—just label with the date so you remember.

Reheating

For the crispiest results, reheat your pizza in a dry cast iron pan over medium heat or on a baking sheet in a hot oven. Skip the microwave unless you’re in a hurry—the crust just won’t be the same without that wonderful crunch.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Absolutely! Store-bought dough works just as well as homemade. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature for easier stretching and a lighter crumb.

What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?

A cast iron pan delivers the crispiest crust, but you can try a heavy ovenproof skillet or even a metal cake pan in a pinch. Just know the texture may vary, with cast iron truly providing the gold standard for this recipe.

What size skillet should I use?

A 10- to 12-inch cast iron skillet is ideal for Cast Iron Skillet Pizza. It gives the perfect balance between a thick, chewy center and crispy, caramelized edges. If your pan is smaller or larger, adjust baking times accordingly.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make pizza dough in advance. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze individual portions for longer storage. Bring the dough to room temperature before stretching for best results.

What are the best toppings for Cast Iron Skillet Pizza?

Anything goes! Classic pepperoni, sausage, or mushrooms never disappoint, but don’t shy away from creative options like caramelized onions, pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, or even dollops of ricotta. The cast iron skillet supports hearty toppings beautifully.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about making Cast Iron Skillet Pizza at home—the sizzle, the aroma, that first crunchy bite. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend project, this recipe is a game-changer that everyone should try. Gather your favorite ingredients and let pizza night begin!

Cast Iron Skillet Pizza Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 7 reviews

Author: lina
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 1 12-inch pizza 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Enjoy a delicious homemade Cast Iron Skillet Pizza with a crispy crust and gooey cheese. This easy recipe is perfect for a cozy night in!

Ingredients

Scale

Pizza:

1 tbsp olive oil
12 ounces pizza dough (store bought or homemade) (room temperature *SEE NOTES*)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (use a low moisture block mozzarella instead of fresh for the crispiest crust)
1/2 cup pizza sauce (store bought or homemade)
desired pizza toppings

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Move one oven rack to the bottom and another to the top; preheat to 450°F/230°C.
Prepare Pan: Spread oil in the cast iron pan. Gently stretch dough to cover the bottom, dimpling it with fingers.
Add Cheese and Sauce: Sprinkle mozzarella over dough, then dot sauce over the cheese.
Add Toppings: Add desired toppings, then bake on the bottom rack for 18-20 minutes until crust is golden and cheese melts.
Finish: Cool briefly, run a knife around the edges, transfer to a cutting board, and serve hot.