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Cast-Iron Skillet Pepperoni Pizza

BakedCast-IronCheesyHeartyLow-CostOvenParty FoodPotluckSauceSavory
Time :35 minutes
Yield :8 servings
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Try this cast-iron skillet pepperoni pizza; it's easy and perfect for celebrating small victories.
The first time I made a cast-iron skillet pepperoni pizza was the night after my driving test. There's a certain thrill in passing such a milestone, and I wanted to celebrate with something that felt special yet comforting. The can of marinara sauce that had been gathering dust in the pantry suddenly seemed like a good omen. My cast-iron skillet, normally reserved for ambitious sears and sautés, was perfect for this occasion. I had purchased fresh pizza dough from a local bakery that morning, already dreaming of the crispy edges it would form.
Spreading the dough into the skillet, I recalled a tip from a fellow cooking aficionado: always get the olive oil into those skillet grooves for an even crust. The sauce was next, ladled on with an indulgent hand, leaving a border like a well-framed painting. As mozzarella snowed over the sauce, I knew I had to restrain my inner cheese enthusiast—balance, I reminded myself. Pepperoni slices soon dotted the landscape like festive confetti. Baking it was an exercise in patient anticipation, as heady aromas filled the kitchen.
Once done, a sprinkle of fresh basil from my countertop garden granted just the right peppery pop. Everyone at the table agreed that this was the perfect choice for an impromptu victory feast. Letting it rest before slicing rewarded us with cleaner cuts and admiration of my driving test triumph felt even sweeter.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 (16-ounce) package fresh pizza dough
  • 1/2 cup pizza or marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 3 ounces pepperoni sliced
  • basil optional, to taste, freshly chopped, for garnish

Directions

  • Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
  • Coat a 10-12-inch cast-iron skillet with the olive oil using a brush or paper towel.
  • Press the dough ball into the oiled skillet to form a crust. Be sure to evenly form the dough into the skillet.
  • Ladle the sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border at the edge.
  • Layer the cheese over the sauce.
  • Place the pepperoni over the cheese. Bake until the crust is cooked through and the cheese is thoroughly melted, about 15-25 minutes.
  • Remove the skillet from the oven and garnish with the freshly chopped basil.
  • Serve!
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