Old School Cafeteria Pizza

Step 1

Preheat oven:• Conventional oven: 475° F [245° C]• Convection oven: 425° F [220° C]

Step 2

Line a half-sheet pan with parchment paper. [Half Sheet Pan = approx. 20" x 13.5".] Spray with cooking spray and sprinkle lightly with cornmeal. Tilt the pan back and forth to distribute corn meal evenly.

Step 3

Combine yeast, flour, dry milk, sugar, and salt in a medium mixing bowl.

Step 4

Combine oil and warm water, and then pour into flour mixture and stir thoroughly for about 5 minutes. Mixture will be very sticky.

Step 5

Pour mixture from bowl onto prepared pan and spread evenly using a spatula. Set dough in pan aside to rest for 20-30 minutes.

Step 6

Put the pizza dough pan in the oven and pre-bake until crust is set: • Conventional oven: 475° F for 10 minutes• Convection oven: 425° F for 7 minutesRemove from oven and set aside until Pizza Topping has cooled slightly.

Step 7

Prepare the pizza topping while the pizza crust is "resting." In large skillet, combine chopped onion, mild Italian sausage, and ground beef and cooked over medium-high heat until meat is thoroughly browned and onion is soft and translucent.

Step 8

Add tomato paste, water, brown sugar, and dried herbs. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes. The mixture is done when it is no longer runny.

Step 9

Allow topping to cool slightly before spreading it on pizza.

Step 10

Combine three grated cheeses in a medium bowl.

Step 11

Carefully spread the Pizza Topping over the pre-baked Pizza Crust.

Step 12

Top evenly with Cheese Blend.

Step 13

Return pizza to hot oven and bake until cheese is melted and topping is heated through:• Conventional oven: 475° F for 10-15 minutes• Convection oven: 425° F for 5 minutes