Are you ready to transform your ordinary pizza night into an extraordinary culinary adventure? This Three Cheese Pan Pizza isn't just another recipe—it's a golden, crispy, cheesy masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! Imagine a perfectly crisp crust, three incredible cheeses melting together in harmony, and a flavor profile that will transport you straight to the heart of Italy. Get ready to become the pizza hero of your kitchen with this irresistible recipe that promises restaurant-quality results right in your own home.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pizza dough
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove pizza dough from refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, which helps with easier stretching and better texture.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a 12-inch cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed oven-safe pan in the oven while preheating to ensure it gets hot.
- Gently stretch the pizza dough into a circular shape that will fit your pan, being careful not to tear the dough.
- Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven using thick oven mitts. Brush the bottom and sides of the pan with olive oil to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Gently transfer the stretched dough into the hot skillet, pressing it to fit the pan's bottom and sides. The hot pan will start cooking the dough's bottom immediately, creating a crispy crust.
- Spread marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese first as the base layer, then add Parmesan cheese, and finally top with crumbled feta for a complex cheese profile.
- Season with dried oregano, salt, and pepper to enhance the cheese flavors.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and slightly bubbling.
- Remove from oven and let the pizza rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to set and make cutting easier.
- Slice into wedges and serve hot, garnishing with fresh basil or additional herbs if desired.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your pizza dough sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before stretching. This makes the dough more pliable and helps prevent tearing.
- Preheat Like a Pro: A blazing hot skillet is crucial for achieving that restaurant-style crispy bottom. Make sure your pan is smoking hot before adding the dough.
- Cheese Layer Strategy: Layer your cheeses strategically—start with mozzarella as a base, then sprinkle Parmesan for sharpness, and finish with feta for a tangy kick.
- Don't Overload: While it's tempting to add tons of toppings, too many can make your crust soggy. Keep it simple and let the three-cheese blend shine.
- Resting is Important: Allow your pizza to rest for 2-3 minutes after baking. This helps the cheese set and makes cutting much easier.
- Optional Flavor Boosters: Consider adding a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or some fresh basil leaves right after baking for an extra gourmet touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 336kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 43mg
