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Crispy Single Serving Deep Dish Pizza Recipe Easy Cast Iron Skillet Method

crispy single serving deep dish pizza - featured image

A quick and easy single serving deep dish pizza made in a cast iron skillet, featuring a crispy crust and gooey cheese, perfect for solo meals without leftovers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (125g)
  • 1/2 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1/3 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C) (80ml)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp sugar
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (85g)
  • 1/3 cup pizza sauce (80ml)
  • About 10 pepperoni slices (optional)
  • A few fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional extras: sliced mushrooms or bell peppers, red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Proof the yeast by combining warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast in a mixing bowl. Stir gently and let sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy and bubbly.
  2. Add flour, salt, olive oil, and garlic powder (if using) to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add a little more flour if sticky, but keep dough soft.
  4. Place dough back in the bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rest for 10 minutes to relax.
  5. Preheat oven and cast iron skillet to 475°F (245°C) for 10 minutes.
  6. Carefully remove hot skillet using oven mitts, drizzle with olive oil, and press dough into skillet, pushing it up the sides to form a deep dish shell.
  7. Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously, add pepperoni or other toppings, then sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
  8. Return skillet to oven and bake for 12-15 minutes until crust is golden and crispy, cheese is bubbling, and toppings are cooked.
  9. Let pizza cool slightly before removing from skillet. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
  10. Optional: If crust isn’t crispy enough, finish under broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

Notes

Preheat the cast iron skillet fully to achieve a crispy crust. Avoid overloading with wet toppings to prevent soggy crust. Pre-cook vegetables if using. If crust is not crispy enough, finish under broiler for 1-2 minutes. Clean skillet with paper towel and oil, avoid soap to preserve seasoning. Dough can be made ahead and refrigerated.

Nutrition

Keywords: single serving pizza, deep dish pizza, cast iron skillet pizza, quick pizza recipe, easy pizza, crispy crust pizza, solo meal pizza