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Sheet Pan Grandma Pizza with Tomato Sauce

If there’s one dish that encapsulates comfort and nostalgia in Italian-American cuisine, it’s the classic Grandma Pizza. Originating from the backyard kitchens of Italian grandmothers, this easy and delightful recipe has won hearts and stomachs alike. With its crispy crust, sweet tomato sauce, and gooey cheese, this Sheet Pan Grandma Pizza brings home-cooked flavours straight to your table, all while being incredibly simple to prepare. In this article, we will explore how to make this delicious dish, including an irresistible tomato sauce that serves as the final ingredient.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 500g strong white bread flour
• 10g salt
• 7g instant yeast
• 350ml warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves (optional)

For the Toppings:

• 250g mozzarella cheese, grated
• Additional toppings of your choice (pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, etc.)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and yeast. Make a well in the centre and gradually add the warm water and olive oil.
2. Mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms, then begin kneading it on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Tomato Sauce

1. While the dough is rising, you can prepare your tomato sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, sugar, and season with salt and pepper. Stir well and let it simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes to thicken and develop flavour.
3. If desired, toss in some fresh basil leaves at the end for an added layer of freshness.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 220°C (200°C fan) or 428°F.
2. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently stretch it into a rectangle that fits your sheet pan (typically about 30x40cm).
3. Transfer the dough to a greased sheet pan, stretching it to the edges. Cover it with a cloth and let it rest for another 20 minutes.
4. After resting, spread a generous layer of the tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the grated mozzarella evenly over the top and add any additional toppings you fancy.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Once cooked, remove the pizza from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Cut it into squares or wedges, and serve it hot, garnished with extra basil if desired.
2. This Sheet Pan Grandma Pizza is perfect for sharing and is sure to become a family favourite!

Final Thoughts

The beauty of Sheet Pan Grandma Pizza lies not just in its delectable taste but also in its versatility. You can customise it with your favourite toppings, or keep it simple with just cheese and sauce. It’s a wonderful meal for gatherings, busy weeknights, or simply a laid-back weekend feast. The last ingredient—the homemade tomato sauce—elevates this dish from good to extraordinary, wrapping it in a rich, buttery tomato essence that perfectly complements the crispy crust and melted cheese.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and indulge in this hearty slice of love, honouring the legacy of grandmothers everywhere with every bite!

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