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Classic “School” Pizza
If you grew up enjoying hot lunch in the cafeteria, chances are you remember the famous rectangle-shaped pizza that was served on pizza day. Classic “School” Pizza was a highlight for many students, with its thick crust, rich tomato sauce, and a layer of melted cheese that could make even the pickiest eaters smile. Recreating it at home brings back a wave of nostalgia and provides a family-friendly recipe that is both budget-friendly and delicious.
About This Recipe
This recipe stays true to the original cafeteria-style pizza many of us remember from school lunches. Instead of a thin crust, it features a soft, slightly chewy dough baked in a rectangular pan, topped with seasoned tomato sauce, cheese, and optional pepperoni. It’s easy to slice into squares or rectangles, just like it was served on those iconic lunch trays.
Why You’ll Love This Pizza
You’ll enjoy this recipe because it combines comfort food with nostalgia. The crust is hearty enough to hold up under toppings, but soft enough to feel satisfying. The sauce is simple yet flavorful, and the cheese provides that gooey, classic finish. It’s an excellent option for family dinners, game nights, or whenever you’re craving that familiar cafeteria-style slice.
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the sauce:
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the toppings:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional for that cafeteria-style blend)
- Pepperoni slices or cooked sausage (optional)
- A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: In a small bowl, mix the yeast, warm water, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 5–7 minutes until smooth.
Step 3: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 4: While the dough rises, prepare the sauce by combining tomato sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper in a saucepan. Simmer for 10–15 minutes.
Step 5: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9x13-inch pan or half-sheet pan.
Step 6: Punch down the dough and roll it out to fit your pan. Press it evenly into the pan and let it rest for 10 minutes.
Step 7: Spread the sauce evenly over the crust. Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar on top, then add pepperoni or sausage if desired.
Step 8: Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
Step 9: Allow the pizza to cool slightly before cutting into classic rectangular slices.
Serving Suggestions
Classic “School” Pizza pairs perfectly with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or even crispy fries if you want the full cafeteria-style experience. It’s also a fun option for kids’ parties or casual dinners where you want to feed a crowd with minimal effort.
Storage Tips
Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to bring back that fresh-baked texture. You can also freeze slices individually for up to 2 months; simply wrap them in foil and store in a freezer bag.
Nutrition Information
Approximate values per slice (based on 12 slices):
- Calories: 260
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
Final Thoughts
Classic “School” Pizza is more than just a recipe—it’s a throwback to childhood memories of pizza day in the cafeteria. With its hearty crust, flavorful sauce, and melty cheese, it’s a dish that delivers comfort and satisfaction with every bite. Making it at home allows you to relive that nostalgic taste while adding your own personal touches. It’s a recipe worth keeping in your rotation for family meals, parties, or anytime you crave a cozy, familiar slice.