Remember those classic school cafeteria pizzas? Soft crust, rich sauce, and cheesy goodness that made lunchtime feel like a party? This recipe brings back those nostalgic vibes with an irresistible homemade twist. Perfect for a family pizza night, a fun weekend project, or whenever you’re craving comfort food that takes you back to the good ol’ days!

Let’s make some school pizza magic! 🍕✨

🛒 Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup powdered milk
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) quick-rise yeast
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 2/3 cups warm water (110-115°F)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

For the Filling:

  • 1/2 lb Italian sausage
  • 1/2 lb ground chuck (or lean ground beef)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese

For the Sauce:

  • 6 oz tomato paste
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tbsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tbsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp dried rosemary

🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

🥖 Step 1: Make the Crust

1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 475°F.
2️⃣ Spray an 18×13-inch sheet pan with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
3️⃣ In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered milk, sugar, yeast, and salt.
4️⃣ In a separate bowl, mix the warm water and vegetable oil. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. Don’t worry if it’s a bit lumpy — that’s totally fine!
5️⃣ Spread the dough evenly across the prepared sheet pan using your fingers. If it’s too sticky, let it rest for a few minutes, then try again.
6️⃣ Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, or until it starts to firm up but hasn’t browned yet.

🍖 Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1️⃣ In a skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage and ground chuck together.
2️⃣ Season with salt and pepper, then cook until fully browned.
3️⃣ Drain any excess grease and set the meat mixture aside.

🍅 Step 3: Make the Sauce

1️⃣ In a medium saucepan, combine the tomato paste, water, and olive oil.
2️⃣ Add the minced garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and rosemary.
3️⃣ Stir well and simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

🧀 Step 4: Assemble the Pizza

1️⃣ Spread the prepared sauce evenly over the pre-baked crust.
2️⃣ Sprinkle the browned sausage and ground chuck mixture over the sauce.
3️⃣ Top with shredded mozzarella cheese, ensuring an even layer.

🔥 Step 5: Bake to Perfection

1️⃣ Return the assembled pizza to the oven and bake at 475°F for another 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned.
2️⃣ Remove from the oven and let the pizza rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

🍽️ Time to Slice and Enjoy!

Cut your school pizza into squares — just like the lunchroom did — and dig in! This recipe serves 6-8 people and is perfect for sharing.

💡 Pro Tips for the Perfect School Pizza:

  • Cheese Lovers: Feel free to add more mozzarella or a blend of cheeses like cheddar and provolone.
  • Meat Swap: Don’t have sausage or ground chuck? Use pepperoni, turkey, or even a plant-based option!
  • Extra Toppings: Want more toppings? Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives for extra flavor.

📌 Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

✅ Nostalgic and comforting
✅ Easy and budget-friendly
✅ Customizable to your taste

Don’t lose this recipe! Bookmark it, pin it, or print it out, because once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again.

Happy pizza-making! 🍕💕
Let me know how yours turns out — I’d love to see your creations! Use #SchoolPizzaNostalgia when sharing on social media! 🥰