Description

This School Lunch Pizza is a throwback to the beloved pizzas served in cafeterias. Made from scratch, it features a slightly sweet, pillowy crust topped with savory meat and gooey cheese, interlaced with a rich homemade tomato sauce. The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its taste but also in how easy it is to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or fun-filled family gatherings, it caters to both kids and adults alike. Let’s embark on this culinary journey together.

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup powdered milk
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon instant yeast
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup warm water (110-115°F)
• 2 cans (12 oz each) tomato paste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 pound ground chuck
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven to 475°F and prepare a baking sheet with non-stick spray and parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, powdered milk, sugar, salt, and instant yeast.
3. In another bowl, mix vegetable oil and warm water, then combine with the dry ingredients to form a slightly wet dough.
4. Spread the dough evenly on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until lightly golden.
5. While the crust bakes, mix tomato paste, minced garlic, water, olive oil, salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, and dried rosemary to make the pizza sauce.
6. Cook ground chuck in a skillet over medium heat until browned, seasoning with salt and pepper, then drain excess grease.
7. Remove the baked crust from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
8. Spread the pizza sauce over the crust, then add the cooked ground chuck evenly on top.
9. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the ground chuck.
10. Return the pizza to the oven for another 8 to 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
11. Let the pizza sit for at least five minutes, then cut into squares and serve with optional extra sauce or toppings.

Tips and Conclusion

For a perfect crust, avoid over-kneading the dough. A gentle mixing will keep your pizza light and airy, reminiscent of classic school lunches. When it comes to toppings, feel free to be creative. Add some bell peppers, onions, or even olives if you want to customize this pizza to your liking.
This nostalgic School Lunch Pizza is a wonderful recipe that brings back fond memories of our school days while providing a delicious meal for today's busy families. With its delightful flavors and charming simplicity, it's sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend project with the kids, this pizza recipe is not just a dish; it's a way to create memories that you will cherish long after the last slice is gone. Enjoy every bite of this delicious pizza, and don't forget to share with friends and family for a delightful gathering around the table!