Pizza Hut Pan Pizza Copycat Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide for Crispy, Cheesy Perfection

There’s nothing like the comforting taste of a classic Pizza Hut pan pizza—the perfect blend of crispy crust and gooey cheese. I’ve always loved sinking my teeth into a slice that reminds me of those cozy nights out with friends and family.

Recreating this favorite at home is easier than you might think. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of love, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors without leaving your kitchen. Let’s dive into this copycat recipe and bring that familiar Pizza Hut magic right to your table.

Ingredients

To craft the perfect Pizza Hut Pan Pizza at home, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dough

• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce

• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon sugar
• Salt to taste

For the Toppings

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup pepperoni slices
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• ½ cup sliced mushrooms
• Additional toppings as desired (e.g., onions, olives)

Optional: For the Pan

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Tools

Creating a mouthwatering Pizza Hut Pan Pizza at home starts with having the right tools in your kitchen. Here’s what I use to ensure every step goes smoothly:

• Large Mixing Bowls

• Essential for combining dough ingredients and prepping the sauce. I prefer stainless steel for durability.

• Stand Mixer with Dough Hook

• Makes kneading the dough effortless and ensures a perfect, elastic texture. If you don’t have one, a sturdy hand mixer works too.

• Measuring Cups and Spoons

• Accurate measurements are crucial for both the dough and sauce. I use a set that includes both dry and liquid measurements.

• Rolling Pin

• Helps roll out the dough evenly. A non-stick rolling pin is my go-to to prevent sticking.

• Cast Iron Skillet or Deep-Dish Pizza Pan

• A seasoned cast iron skillet gives the crust that signature crispy edge. Alternatively, a deep-dish pizza pan works well for a thick, hearty base.

• Oven

• Preheating your oven to the right temperature is key. I always use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate heat.

• Parchment Paper

• Lining the skillet or pan with parchment paper prevents the dough from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

• Spatula or Pizza Peel

• Perfect for transferring the pizza in and out of the oven without disturbing the toppings.

• Grater

• Freshly grated mozzarella cheese melts beautifully and adds that gooey texture I love.
• For simmering the pizza sauce to develop rich flavors before spreading it on the dough.

Make-Ahead Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough Ahead

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the dough ingredients and mix until a smooth dough forms.
• Knead the dough using a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 5 minutes.
• Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
• When ready to use, remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before shaping.

1. Make the Sauce in Advance

• In a saucepan, combine tomato sauce, garlic, oregano, basil, and a pinch of sugar.
• Simmer the sauce over low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Let the sauce cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store the sauce in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for up to three months.

1. Prepare Toppings and Cheese

• Slice your preferred toppings, such as pepperoni, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms.
• Grate the mozzarella cheese and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Portion out any additional toppings and keep them refrigerated until ready to use.

1. Assemble and Freeze (Optional)

• Roll out the prepared dough and place it in a deep-dish pizza pan or a cast iron skillet.
• Spread a layer of prepared sauce over the dough, add your toppings, and sprinkle with grated cheese.
• Let the assembled pizza cool completely, then tightly wrap it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Freeze the pizza for up to two months.
• To bake, remove the wrapping, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and bake as directed in the recipe.

1. Storage Guidelines

• Refrigerator Storage:
  | Component | Storage Duration |
  |———–|——————|
  | Dough | Up to 24 hours |
  | Sauce | Up to 1 week |
  | Toppings | Up to 3 days |
  | Cheese | Up to 2 weeks |
• Freezer Storage:
  | Component | Storage Duration |
  |———–|——————|
  | Dough | Up to 3 months |
  | Sauce | Up to 3 months |
  | Assembled Pizza | Up to 2 months |

By following these make-ahead steps, you can enjoy your homemade Pizza Hut Pan Pizza anytime with minimal effort.

Instructions

Recreating the perfect Pizza Hut Pan Pizza at home is a rewarding experience. Follow these steps to achieve that signature crispy crust and gooey cheese.

Prepare the Dough

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast with 1 ½ cups of warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Add Flour and Salt: Stir in 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix until the dough starts to come together.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for 5 minutes.
4. Let It Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Prepare the Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, mix 1 can (15 ounces) of tomato sauce with 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder.
2. Simmer the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper as needed for desired flavor.

Assemble the Pizza

1. Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Brush a 12-inch cast iron skillet or deep-dish pizza pan with 3 tablespoons of melted butter, ensuring the bottom and sides are well-coated.
2. Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to the prepared pan. Use your fingers to press and stretch the dough evenly across the bottom and up the sides of the skillet.
3. Add the Sauce: Spread an even layer of the prepared tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
4. Layer the Cheese: Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
5. Add Toppings: Arrange your favorite toppings, such as pepperoni, sliced mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers, over the cheese layer.

Bake the Pizza

1. Bake Until Golden: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
2. Check for Doneness: Rotate the skillet halfway through baking to ensure even cooking. If the crust is browning too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil.
3. Cool Before Serving: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool in the skillet for about 5 minutes. This helps the cheese set and makes it easier to slice.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Use a spatula or pizza peel to transfer the pizza to a cutting board. Slice into wedges and enjoy your homemade Pizza Hut Pan Pizza!

Serving Suggestions

Enhancing your homemade Pizza Hut Pan Pizza experience is all about the perfect accompaniments. Here are my favorite ways to serve and enjoy your pizza:

Complementary Sides

1. Crisp Garden Salad

• Ingredients:
• 4 cups mixed greens
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cucumber, sliced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• Your favorite dressing
• Instructions:

1. Combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion in a large bowl.
2. Drizzle with dressing just before serving.
3. Toss gently to mix.

4. Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks

• Ingredients:
• 1 pre-made breadstick dough
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush breadsticks with melted butter.
3. Sprinkle garlic powder and Parmesan cheese evenly.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden.

Beverage Pairings

Choose beverages that complement the flavors of your pan pizza:

Presentation Tips

• Plating: Arrange pizza slices on a large wooden board or a colorful platter. Add the salad and breadsticks in separate sections for an appealing presentation.
• Garnishes: Sprinkle fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the salad for added flavor and visual appeal.
• Serving Utensils: Provide a pizza cutter and serving spoons for easy access to sides.

Extra Touches

• Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch, marinara, or garlic aioli to enhance the pizza flavors.
• Dessert Option: Consider adding a light dessert like gelato or brownies to complete the meal.

By thoughtfully pairing your Pizza Hut Pan Pizza with these sides and beverages, you create a well-rounded and delightful dining experience that rivals your favorite pizzeria.

Conclusion

Making Pizza Hut Pan Pizza at home has been such a rewarding adventure for me. There’s something special about crafting each layer, from the crispy crust to the melty cheese, that brings back those cozy pizzeria memories. I love how simple ingredients and a bit of effort can transform your kitchen into a pizza haven.

Trying out this copycat recipe has not only satisfied my cravings but also given me a fun way to share delicious meals with friends and family. I hope you enjoy the process as much as the final bite. Happy pizza making!