Embrace the coziness of grandma’s kitchen with our Homemade Grandma Pizza Pie. This square pizza, with its thick, focaccia-like crust, rich San Marzano tomatoes, and fresh basil, is a tribute to the simplicity and heartiness of Italian-American cooking. Perfect for family gatherings or a comforting meal, this recipe brings a slice of nostalgia straight to your table.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Toppings:
- 1 can (14 oz) San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour, olive oil, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Preheat Oven and Prep Toppings:
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up as well.
- In a bowl, mix the crushed San Marzano tomatoes with minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Pizza:
- Stretch the dough into a lightly oiled square baking sheet (about 9×13 inches), pushing it up the sides to create a crust characteristic of Grandma Pizza.
- Spread the tomato mixture evenly over the dough.
- Arrange slices of fresh mozzarella on top.
Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and immediately top with fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and grated Parmesan if desired.
Serve:
- Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before cutting into squares. Serve hot and enjoy the taste of homemade comfort.
Product Recommendations
Enhance your pizza-making experience with these Amazon finds. Remember, purchasing through these links may earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you:
- Square Baking Sheet: A high-quality square baking sheet is essential for achieving the perfect shape and crust for your Grandma Pizza.
- Pizza Stone: For an even crispier bottom, consider baking your pizza on a pizza stone. Preheat it in your oven for the best results.
- Rolling Pin with Thickness Rings: Achieve the perfect dough thickness every time with a rolling pin designed with adjustable thickness rings.
- San Marzano Tomatoes: The key to the rich flavor in this pizza, look for authentic DOP (Protected Designation of Origin) labeled cans.
- Fresh Basil Plant: Why not grow your own basil for the freshest leaves? A small indoor herb garden can provide you with fresh basil anytime.
