The School Pizza Recipe

Remember the excitement of pizza day in the school cafeteria? Thick, fluffy crust, a rich, tangy sauce, melty cheese, and a meaty topping that made every bite pure comfort. This homemade school pizza recipe brings all that nostalgia back, and it’s so simple to make at home. Perfect for family pizza night, game day, or when you’re craving that throwback flavor, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Nostalgic flavor – tastes just like the square slices from grade school lunches.
Easy crust – no fancy techniques, just a quick mix and press.
Crowd-pleaser – kids and adults alike will go back for seconds.
Customizable – swap in your favorite toppings or cheese blends.
Make-ahead friendly – the sauce can be made the day before for even better flavor.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

2 ⅔ cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup powdered milk
2 tablespoons sugar
1 package quick-rise yeast
1 teaspoon salt
1 ⅔ cups warm water (110–115°F)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Filling:

½ lb Italian sausage
½ lb ground chuck
½ teaspoon pepper
½ teaspoon salt
1 (8 oz) block of mozzarella cheese, shredded

For the Sauce (make the day before if possible):

1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
1 ½ cups water
⅓ cup olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
½ tablespoon dried oregano
½ tablespoon dried basil
½ teaspoon dried rosemary

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Crust

Preheat oven to 475°F.
Spray an 18×13 sheet pan with nonstick spray and line with parchment.
In a large bowl; whisk together flour; powdered milk; sugar; yeast, and salt.
Add oil to the warm water, then pour into the flour mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms (lumps are okay, just no dry spots).
Spread dough evenly into the pan with your fingertips. If it resists; let it rest for; 5 minutes; and try again.
Bake just the crust for 8–10 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

Brown the sausage and ground chuck together with salt and pepper until crumbly.
Drain excess fat and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble & Bake

Spread sauce over the partially baked crust.
Sprinkle cooked meat evenly on top.
Add mozzarella cheese.
Bake at 475°F for 8–10 minutes, until cheese is melted and golden.
Let stand 5 minutes before slicing into squares—just like the lunch lady used to serve!

Tips & Tricks

Make-ahead sauce: Letting it rest overnight deepens the flavor.
Cheese swap: Try half mozzarella, half cheddar for that true cafeteria taste.
Crispier crust: Bake the crust 2–3 minutes longer before adding toppings.