Pizza is a family favorite that can get quite expensive when used as a quick and easy meal. If you made it at home it used to take hours. This is an option that will create an instant family favorite. The fun part of this is that the whole family can get involved in making it, and it’s ready as fast as if you ordered it. Make as many or as few as you want, mixing up the combinations. The possibilities are endless.
Each pizza should make 8 pieces, serving approximately 3 people.
For the pizza dough:
- 3 cups flour
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp yeast
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup warm water (one hundred twenty degrees)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
*For a seasoned dough add your choice of the following spice combinations: garlic and Ramano, sage and rosemary, basil and oregano, or other herbs that tickle your palette.
In a large bowl, combine two cups flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add water and oil; mix until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a firm dough.
Turn onto a lightly floured surface, knead until smooth and elastic; about six minutes. Cover and let rest for ten minutes.
On a floured surface, roll dough into a fifteen-inch circle. Transfer toa a greased fourteen-inch pizza pan. Build up edges slightly. Prick dough thoroughly with a fork. bake at 450* for five to eight minutes or until lightly browned. Pull out of oven and top with the list below.
Dinner Pizza Toppings:
- 1 can spaghetti sauce in your choice of flavor
- Pepperoni (some low-fat options are available)
- Italian Sausage (precooked)
- Shredded Mozzarella
- Shredded Cheddar
- Parmesan Cheese (dry or fresh)
- Fruits and Veggies of choice including spinach, green peppers, mushrooms, pineapple, onion, etc.
Once pizzas are topped place back in oven and heat until cheese is melted and veggies are browned.
Now you can enjoy a quick and easy meal with family that cost you pennies on the dollar. All you need is a movie and some popcorn for the perfect, affordable family “outing.”
Dessert Options:
Using the same crust recipe above, top with the following ingredients.
- 1 jar applesauce
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- Coconut
- Walnuts
- Chocolate sauce
Mix applesauce and cinnamon together and spread over prepared dough. Lightly coat with coconut and walnuts. Bake until walnuts and coconut are lightly browned. Drizzle with chocolate sauce and top with whipped cream or ice cream if desired.
Another option for dessert pizza is using the pizza dough, prepared as above, and top it with chocolate chips and marshmallows. Place in oven and melt, creating your very own S’ mores pizza.
These wonderful pizza options would also be great for sleepovers, having friends over for a game night, or hosting a hands-on lesson for a preschool class.