Crispy Cheese Pan Pizza

Step 1

To make the pizza dough, follow the recipe from Food 52 (linked above).

Step 2

About 30 minutes before baking, place one rack at the bottom of the oven and one toward the top (about 4 to 5 inches from the top heating element). Pre-heat the oven to 450°F.

Step 3

When you’re ready to bake the pizza and the oven is pre-heated, if wanting the crispier version: Bake in the oven for 18 to 20 minutes. You are just baking the dough by itself first. (Otherwise, follow directions to add toppings to the pizza and bake.) Remove from the oven, now sprinkle the mozzarella evenly over the pizza dough.

Step 4

Dollop small spoonfuls of the tomato sauce over the cheese (don't spread it!). Cover each dollop of tomato sauce with a thin tomato slice and then sprinkle on the parmesan and provolone cheese over the tomatoes.

Step 5

Bake the pizza on the bottom rack of the oven for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the bottom and edges of the crust are a rich golden brown.

Step 6

Remove the pizza from the oven and place the pan on a heatproof surface. Carefully run a table knife or spatula between the edge of the pizza and side and bottom of the pan to prevent the cheese from sticking as it cools. Let the pizza cool very briefly, then as soon as you feel comfortable doing so, carefully transfer it from the pan to a cooling rack or cutting board.

Step 7

Garnish with Italian parsley or fresh basil and crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Use kitchen shears or a pizza cutter to cut the pizza into slices, enjoy!