If you ever had school cafeteria pizza, you know it hits differently! That soft, slightly chewy crust, tangy tomato sauce, and melty cheeseβitβs a slice of nostalgia. And guess what? Now you can recreate it at home with this authentic school pizza recipe!
This homemade version brings back all the cafeteria vibes, but itβs even better because you can customize it to your liking. Whether you grew up loving those square pizza slices or youβre just looking for an easy, delicious homemade pizza recipe, this oneβs a keeper!
β€οΈ Why Youβll Love This School Pizza Recipe
βοΈ Soft, pillowy crust β Just like the school lunch version!
βοΈ Simple pantry ingredients β No fancy ingredients required.
βοΈ Customizable toppings β Make it exactly how you remember!
βοΈ Feeds a crowd β Perfect for family pizza nights or parties.
βοΈ Brings back childhood memories!
π Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 β cups flour
- ΒΎ cup powdered milk
- 1 packet (2 ΒΌ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110Β°F)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- Β½ tsp garlic powder
- Β½ tsp onion powder
- Β½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Β½ tsp sugar
- Salt & pepper to taste
Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for that authentic school pizza taste!)
- Pepperoni, sausage, or your favorite toppings (optional)
πΊ Tools Youβll Need
βοΈ Mixing bowl
βοΈ Baking sheet (or pizza pan)
βοΈ Rolling pin
βοΈ Measuring cups & spoons
βοΈ Saucepan
π How to Make Classic School Pizza
1οΈβ£ Activate the Yeast
In a bowl, combine:
βοΈ Warm water (110Β°F)
βοΈ Yeast
βοΈ Sugar
Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until foamy. This means the yeast is activated!
2οΈβ£ Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
βοΈ Flour
βοΈ Powdered milk
βοΈ Salt
Add the yeast mixture and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth.
3οΈβ£ Let It Rise
Cover the dough with a towel and let it rest for 30-45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
4οΈβ£ Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 425Β°F (220Β°C). Grease a baking sheet or pizza pan.
5οΈβ£ Roll Out the Dough
Roll the dough into a rectangle or square (just like the school pizza!). Place it on your greased baking sheet.
6οΈβ£ Make the Sauce
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine:
βοΈ Tomato sauce
βοΈ Tomato paste
βοΈ Garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, sugar, salt & pepper
Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7οΈβ£ Assemble the Pizza
Spread the sauce evenly over the crust. Sprinkle mozzarella & cheddar cheese on top. Add any toppings you like!
8οΈβ£ Bake Until Golden
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crust is golden brown.
9οΈβ£ Slice & Serve!
Let cool slightly before slicing into squaresβjust like the cafeteria pizza we all loved!
π½οΈ What to Serve with School Pizza
Pair this nostalgic pizza with:
π₯ Side Salad β Just like at school, serve with ranch dressing!
π₯€ A Cold Soda or Chocolate Milk β Classic school lunch vibes.
π Tater Tots or Fries β Because why not?
π₯‘ Storage & Reheating
To store:
- Keep leftover pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat:
- Oven: Bake at 375Β°F for 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat for 30-45 seconds.
β FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the dough and sauce ahead and assemble when ready to bake.
Can I freeze school pizza?
Absolutely! Bake the pizza, let it cool, and freeze slices in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven when ready to eat!
Can I use pre-made dough?
Yes! If youβre short on time, store-bought pizza dough works great.
π Final Thoughts
This School Pizza Recipe brings back all the nostalgic cafeteria vibes in the best way! Soft crust, simple sauce, and cheesy goodnessβitβs a childhood classic that never gets old!
So grab your ingredients, get baking, and relive the best part of school lunch! ππ
π More Nostalgic Recipes Youβll Love
- Homemade Sloppy Joes
- Classic Peanut Butter Bars
- Old-School Lunchroom Brownies
Tried this recipe? Tag me on Pinterest & InstagramβIβd love to see your homemade school pizza! β€οΈ