Classic School Pizza Recipe

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup powdered milk
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 packet instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 2/3 cups warm water (110-115°F)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Filling:

• 1/2 lb Italian sausage
• 1/2 lb ground chuck
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 (8 oz) block mozzarella cheese, shredded

For the Sauce (prepare one day in advance):

• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1/2 tablespoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary

Instructions

Preparing the Crust:

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
2. Lightly coat an 18 x 13-inch sheet pan with non-stick spray, then line it with parchment paper.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered milk, sugar, yeast, and salt. Whisk thoroughly to blend the dry ingredients.
4. Mix the warm water with vegetable oil, then pour this mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough forms. The batter may be slightly lumpy; focus on ensuring there are no dry patches.
5. Evenly spread the dough across the prepared sheet pan using your fingertips. If the dough is resistant, let it rest for 5 minutes and then spread it again.
6. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, just until it begins to set. Remove from the oven and set aside.

Preparing the Filling:

1. Brown the Italian sausage and ground chuck in a skillet over medium heat, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the meats are crumbled and fully cooked through. Drain the excess fat and set the meat mixture aside.
2. Retrieve the prepared sauce.

Assembling the Pizza:

1. Spread the prepared sauce evenly over the partially baked crust.
2. Evenly distribute the browned meat mixture over the sauce layer.
3. Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the meat.
4. Return the pizza to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and begins to turn golden brown.
5. Once baked, allow the pizza to rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.