Step 1: Prep the Dough

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) .
2. If using store-bought dough, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to soften.
3. Roll the dough into a 12-inch circle on a floured surface. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza stone.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix the tomato sauce , Italian seasoning , garlic powder , salt , and sugar (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza

1. Spread the sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border for the crust.
2. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
3. Add toppings of your choice: pepperoni, veggies, or meats.
4. Optional : Brush the crust edges with olive oil and sprinkle with a bit of garlic powder or sugar for extra crispiness.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

1. Bake for 12–15 minutes , until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
   • For a crispy crust : Rotate the pizza halfway through baking.
2. Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

• Slice into square “cafeteria-style” pieces or rounds.
• Pair with a side of ranch or garlic butter for dipping.
• Pack in a lunchbox or serve with a green salad for a balanced meal.

Customization Ideas

• Veggie Lover’s : Add spinach, onions, or roasted garlic.
• Meat Lovers : Top with cooked sausage, ham, or Canadian bacon.
• Breakfast Version : Swap pepperoni for breakfast sausage and add scrambled eggs.
• School Spirit Colors : Use red sauce, white cheese, and green olives for a patriotic theme!

Tips for Success

1. Don’t Overload Toppings : Too many toppings can make the crust soggy. Keep it simple!
2. Use Fresh Mozzarella : For a stretchy, melty texture.
3. Preheat the Baking Sheet : For a crispier crust, heat the baking sheet in the oven before adding the pizza.
4. Make Ahead : Prepare the dough and sauce the night before for a quick assembly.

Nutrition (Per Slice)

• Calories : ~400
• Carbs : 45g
• Protein : 18g
• Fat : 18g

Why It’s a Winner

This School Pizza Recipe captures the essence of childhood cafeteria classics with homemade love. It’s the perfect blend of savory, cheesy, and comforting—guaranteed to bring back memories (and make new ones)!

Pro Secrets

• Homemade Dough Hack : Mix 1 tsp sugar into the dough before rolling for a slightly sweet crust like some school pizzas.
• Extra Crispy : Bake on the oven’s lowest rack for 5 minutes longer.
• Gluten-Free : Use a gluten-free pizza crust mix for dietary flexibility.

Final Touches

• Garnish : Sprinkle with oregano or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
• Dessert Pizza? : Try a sweet version with Nutella, bananas, and strawberries!

Your New Favorite Lunchbox Staple! This pizza is a nostalgic hit that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether you’re recreating childhood memories or packing a school lunch, this recipe is a keeper!

Let us know your favorite toppings in the comments! 🍕❤️

Enjoy! 🍕📚