Sheet Pan Pizza: The Ultimate Homemade Pizza Night Recipe

If you’re searching for the perfect weeknight dinner that satisfies everyone at the table, look no further than Sheet Pan Pizza. This recipe combines the ease of a single baking sheet with the cheesy, saucy, crispy-edged goodness that makes pizza irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for your family, feeding a hungry group of friends, or just indulging in a personal pizza craving, sheet pan pizza brings flavor, fun, and convenience to your kitchen.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about making the best sheet pan pizza from scratch (or with shortcuts). From homemade dough and saucy secrets to topping combos and crispy crust hacks—you’ll learn how to master this recipe with confidence. Plus, we’ll share tips, variations, and answers to the most commonly asked questions, all in a friendly, down-to-earth tone that feels like chatting with a foodie friend.

Let’s roll up our sleeves and get to the good stuff!

Why You’ll Love Sheet Pan Pizza

There are plenty of pizza recipes out there, so why is sheet pan pizza worth your attention?

  • Easy to Make: No fancy pizza stone, no stretching over a hot oven. Just one trusty baking sheet.
  • Family-Friendly: Customize each corner with different toppings—everyone gets what they want.
  • Crispy, Chewy Crust: Thanks to the olive oil and sheet pan method, you get a crust that’s both soft inside and crisp around the edges.
  • Perfect for a Crowd: Feeding four or more? This pan-sized pizza delivers.
  • Versatile: From classic pepperoni to veggie-packed, white sauce to spicy sausage—sheet pan pizza adapts to your cravings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s start with the essentials. Here’s everything you’ll need to make homemade sheet pan pizza. You can make your own dough, or take a shortcut with store-bought pizza dough. Either way, this is going to be delicious.

For the Dough (or substitute with 1 lb store-bought pizza dough):

  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (that’s 1 standard packet)
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for greasing the pan)

For the Toppings:

  • 1 cup pizza sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup sliced pepperoni or cooked sausage
  • ½ cup sliced vegetables (bell peppers, mushrooms, onions—your choice)
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning (optional but tasty)
  • Red pepper flakes, fresh basil, or grated Parmesan (for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Sheet Pan Pizza

Whether you’re a pizza pro or just starting out, follow these simple steps to create a perfect sheet pan pizza every single time.

1. Make the Dough (if not using store-bought)

Start by activating the yeast:

  • In a small bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures the yeast is alive and ready to help your dough rise.

Next, make the dough:

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
  • Pour in the yeast mixture and add the olive oil.
  • Stir to combine, then knead on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Let it rise:

  • Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Shortcut: If you’re short on time, skip this entire step and use 1 pound of store-bought pizza dough. Just bring it to room temperature before pressing into the pan.

2. Prep the Sheet Pan

While the dough is rising (or once your store-bought dough is ready):

  • Grease a 9×13 inch sheet pan generously with olive oil. This prevents sticking and helps crisp up the bottom of the crust.
  • Press the dough into the pan, stretching it to the edges.
  • Cover loosely and let it rest for 15–20 minutes. This short rest helps the dough relax, making it easier to stretch and giving it a fluffier texture.

3. Add Sauce and Toppings

Now it’s time to build your pizza masterpiece.

  • Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
  • Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a slight border around the edges.
  • Sprinkle evenly with shredded mozzarella.
  • Add your toppings—pepperoni, sausage, veggies, or whatever your heart desires.
  • Optional: Sprinkle with Italian seasoning for that pizzeria aroma.

4. Bake Until Golden

Place the pizza in the center rack of your hot oven and:

  • Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned, and the crust is golden and crisp around the edges.

Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes—it can go from golden to overdone fast.

5. Slice and Serve

Let the pizza rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the cheese set and prevents burns.

  • Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut into squares or rectangles.
  • Top with fresh basil, red pepper flakes, or Parmesan, and maybe a drizzle of good olive oil for that finishing touch.

Pro Tips for the Best Sheet Pan Pizza

If you want to take your sheet pan pizza game to the next level, here are some expert tips:

Preheat Your Pan for a Crispier Crust

For an extra crispy bottom, preheat the pan in the oven before adding the dough. Carefully oil it after preheating, then press the dough in.

Use a Cheese Blend

While mozzarella is classic, mixing in a little provolone, cheddar, or fontina adds more depth and that irresistible cheese pull.

Don’t Overload the Toppings

Too many toppings can weigh down the crust and lead to soggy results. Aim for balance—a layer of sauce, a layer of cheese, and a moderate amount of toppings.

Make it Ahead

You can make the dough a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. Just let it come to room temp before baking. You can also prep your toppings in advance for a lightning-fast weeknight dinner.

Tasty Variations of Sheet Pan Pizza

Here’s where you can get creative! The beauty of sheet pan pizza is how easily it adapts to your mood and pantry.

1. Veggie Lovers’ Pizza

Swap meat for a medley of roasted red peppers, artichokes, olives, spinach, and mushrooms.

2. White Pizza

Skip the red sauce and spread a layer of garlic butter, ricotta, and mozzarella. Add caramelized onions and spinach for bonus flavor.

3. BBQ Chicken Sheet Pan Pizza

Use BBQ sauce instead of tomato sauce, top with shredded rotisserie chicken, red onions, mozzarella, and cilantro.

4. Spicy Pepperoni Supreme

Add jalapeños, red pepper flakes, and a dash of hot honey after baking for a spicy kick.

5. Breakfast Sheet Pan Pizza

Use a base of sausage gravy, sprinkle cheese, and crack a few eggs on top before baking. Brunch goals = unlocked.

What to Serve With Sheet Pan Pizza

Pizza is already a crowd-pleaser, but pairing it with the right sides makes it a full meal.

Fresh Side Salad

A crisp Caesar, garden salad, or arugula-lemon salad cuts through the richness of the pizza.

Garlic Bread or Breadsticks

Double down on the carbs for that true pizzeria vibe.

Dipping Sauces

Try ranch, garlic butter, or even marinara on the side for crust-dipping bliss.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Sheet pan pizza stores beautifully. Here’s how to keep leftovers tasting fresh:

  • Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze slices in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen.
  • Reheat: Use the oven or air fryer at 375°F for 5–8 minutes to restore crispness. The microwave works in a pinch, but it softens the crust.

FAQs About Sheet Pan Pizza

Can I use store-bought dough for sheet pan pizza?

Absolutely! One pound of store-bought dough works perfectly. Just bring it to room temperature before pressing it into the pan.

What size sheet pan should I use?

A standard 9×13 inch pan is ideal, but you can also use a slightly larger or smaller one. Just adjust your baking time slightly if needed.

How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?

Don’t overload it with sauce or toppings, and consider preheating your pan for a crispier bottom.

Can I make this pizza ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the dough a day ahead, prep your toppings, or even par-bake the crust for a few minutes before adding toppings and finishing later.

Is sheet pan pizza the same as Sicilian pizza?

They’re similar in style—both use rectangular pans—but Sicilian pizza traditionally has a thicker crust and is baked differently. Sheet pan pizza is a more flexible, home-friendly version.

Conclusion: Why Sheet Pan Pizza Belongs in Your Recipe Repertoire

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, weekend movie night, or family gathering, sheet pan pizza is one of those meals that never disappoints. It’s easy, customizable, delicious, and fun to make. With a crisp crust, gooey cheese, and endless topping possibilities, this pizza delivers restaurant-level flavor with home-cooked comfort.

By following this guide, you’re not just throwing together a quick meal—you’re creating a new favorite tradition. So the next time a pizza craving hits, skip the delivery app and make your own sheet pan pizza. Your taste buds (and your wallet) will thank you.

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Sheet Pan Pizza: The Ultimate Homemade Pizza Night Recipe


  • Author: Hannah

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough (or use 1 lb store-bought pizza dough):

  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)

  • 1 tsp sugar

  • ¾ cup warm water (110°F)

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1 tbsp olive oil (plus more for greasing)

For the Toppings:

  • 1 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni or cooked sausage

  • 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions

  • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)

  • Red pepper flakes, fresh basil, or Parmesan for serving


Instructions

1. Make the dough (if not using store-bought):

  • In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.

  • In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil.

  • Knead until smooth (about 5 minutes), then cover and let rise 1 hour until doubled.

Shortcut: Skip this step and use 1 lb of store-bought dough!


2. Prep the pan:

  • Grease a 9×13 inch sheet pan or baking tray with olive oil.

  • Press the dough into the pan, stretching it to the edges. Cover and let rest for 15–20 minutes while you prep toppings.


3. Add sauce and toppings:

  • Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C).

  • Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough.

  • Top with shredded cheese and your favorite toppings.

  • Sprinkle with Italian seasoning if using.


4. Bake:

  • Bake in the center rack for 15–18 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.


5. Slice and serve:

 

  • Let cool slightly, then cut into squares or rectangles.

  • Serve with red pepper flakes, extra Parmesan, or a drizzle of olive oil.

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