Sicilian Pan Pizza: Crispy, Cheesy, and Totally Irresistible
If you love thick, fluffy crusts with golden edges and cheesy, saucy goodness in every bite, Sicilian pan pizza is calling your name. This square, pan-baked pizza originated in Sicily but gained massive popularity in New York, where it’s a cult favorite. With its crispy bottom, airy dough, and perfectly layered toppings, this style of pizza is a game-changer for any home cook.
Let’s break down how to make a mouthwatering Sicilian pan pizza right in your own kitchen!
🍕 Ingredients
For the Dough (makes one 9×13 pan):
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (around 110°F)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for the pan)
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (28 oz) whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt & pepper to taste
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
- Any other toppings you love: pepperoni, sautéed mushrooms, onions, etc.
🍽️ Instructions
1. Make the Dough
In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Slowly add warm water and olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
Cover and let it rise in a greased bowl for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Pan
Generously coat a 9×13 baking pan with olive oil. Transfer the dough into the pan, pressing it out gently to the edges. If it resists, let it rest for 10 minutes, then continue. Cover and let rise again for 45 minutes.
3. Make the Sauce
While the dough is rising, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté garlic for about 30 seconds, then add crushed tomatoes (crush them by hand or with a masher if needed), oregano, salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Assemble the Pizza
Preheat oven to 500°F (or as hot as your oven goes).
Spread a layer of sauce over the dough, then sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly on top. Add additional toppings if desired.
5. Bake to Perfection
Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and the crust is golden and crispy on the bottom.
Let it cool for 5 minutes, top with fresh basil if using, then slice and devour!
📦 Amazon Must-Haves to Help You Create the Ultimate Sicilian Pizza
- 🍞 9×13 Nonstick Baking Pan – Perfect for building that iconic thick, crispy Sicilian-style crust.
- 🥣 Mixing Bowls Set – Ideal for mixing and proofing dough like a pro.
- 🌿 Dried Oregano & Red Pepper Flakes – Add classic zesty flavor to your sauce and toppings.
- 🍅 San Marzano Tomatoes – Rich, authentic Italian tomato flavor is a must for any great pizza sauce.
- 🧀 Low-Moisture Mozzarella Cheese – Melts evenly without making your crust soggy.
- 🧄 Garlic Press – Fast and consistent garlic prep to flavor your sauce or oil drizzle.
- 🍕 Pizza Cutter Rocker Blade – Easily slice through thick crusts in one smooth motion.
- 🧤 Heat-Resistant Oven Mitts – Protect your hands when pulling that sizzling pan from the oven.
Ready to impress with your pizza-making skills?
With these tools and this foolproof recipe, your Sicilian pan pizza will become a new favorite in your house. Crunchy crust, cheesy layers, and rich sauce—this is comfort food done right.