Pizza lovers rejoice! This Sheet-Pan Caprese Pizza is here to transform your weeknight dinners and casual gatherings. Inspired by the traditional Caprese salad, this pizza combines the refreshing flavors of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and tangy balsamic glaze. The best part? It’s baked on a sheet pan for convenience and ease. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe will guide you to create a pizza masterpiece that’s sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Convenient: By using a sheet pan, the process becomes simpler and less messy.
- Fresh Ingredients: The vibrant mix of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil makes this pizza a refreshing yet hearty meal.
- Customizable: Easily tweak the recipe to suit dietary preferences or include your favorite toppings.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, parties, or even a quiet night at home.
Ready to bring a slice of Italy into your kitchen? Let’s get started!
Ingredients
The magic of Caprese lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to maximize flavor and create a harmonious dish.
For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (110°F)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
For the Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 2-3 medium ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup balsamic glaze
- Fresh basil leaves (about 10-12 leaves)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Roasted garlic cloves
- Thinly sliced prosciutto
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Red pepper flakes for heat
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Homemade pizza dough is surprisingly easy and yields a wonderfully chewy and flavorful base.
- Activate the Yeast: Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until it’s frothy. This step ensures the yeast is alive and ready to work.
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until the dough starts to come together into a shaggy ball.
- Knead: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes. The dough should become smooth and elastic.
- Rest: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Tip: Strapped for time? You can also use store-bought pizza dough for a quicker option.
Step 2: Prep the Sheet Pan
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
- Lightly grease a large sheet pan with olive oil or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle to fit your sheet pan. Gently stretch it with your hands, ensuring even thickness throughout.
Step 3: Assemble the Pizza
Here’s where the fun begins!
- Base Layer: Spread an even layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the dough. This forms a barrier to prevent sogginess from the tomatoes.
- Add Tomatoes and Fresh Mozzarella: Arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices over the cheese. Overlapping them slightly creates a visually appealing and flavor-packed top.
- Season: Drizzle olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper for seasoning.
Step 4: Bake the Pizza
- Transfer the sheet pan to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The crust should turn golden brown, and the cheese should be bubbly and slightly caramelized.
- Keep an eye on the edges to ensure they don’t burn.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
- Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a minute or two.
- Drizzle a generous amount of balsamic glaze over the top for that signature Caprese tang.
- Scatter fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
- Slice and serve!
Pro Tip: Use a pizza cutter or a sharp knife to achieve clean slices.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1.5 hours for dough rising)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: ~2 hours
This recipe makes one large sheet-pan pizza, which can be sliced into 6-8 pieces depending on your desired portion size.
Variations to Try
Personalizing your Sheet-Pan Caprese Pizza is easy! Here are some ideas to inspire your creativity:
Meaty Caprese
Add thin slices of prosciutto or cooked chicken breast for a protein boost.
Vegan Option
Swap the mozzarella with a plant-based alternative and skip the balsamic glaze if it contains animal products.
Gluten-Free Pizza
Use a gluten-free pizza dough or crust to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Spicy Kick
Sprinkle red pepper flakes or add thin slices of jalapeños before baking.
Extra Toppings
- Roasted garlic for a sweet and savory punch.
- Sun-dried tomatoes for an intensified tomato flavor.
- A drizzle of chili oil for heat and complexity.
Storage and Reheating
Storage
- Refrigerate leftover pizza slices in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F and bake slices for 8-10 minutes for a crispy crust.
- Skillet: Heat slices over medium heat in a covered skillet for 3-4 minutes.
- Microwave: Not recommended as it can make the crust soggy, but if necessary, heat in 30-second intervals.
FAQs About Sheet-Pan Caprese Pizza
1. Can I make this pizza without yeast?
Yes, you can use a no-yeast dough recipe made with baking powder as a leavening agent.
2. What tomatoes are best for this recipe?
Roma or heirloom tomatoes are ideal due to their low moisture content and rich flavor.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! Refrigerate the dough after its first rise. Bring it to room temperature before rolling out.
4. Is there a substitute for balsamic glaze?
Mix equal parts balsamic vinegar and honey, then reduce it over low heat until syrupy.
5. What’s the secret to a crispy crust?
Preheating the sheet pan in the oven before adding the dough can help achieve a crispy base.
6. How do I prevent a soggy pizza?
Pat the tomato slices dry with a paper towel and avoid overloading the crust with toppings.
7. Can I use pre-made crust?
Yes, pre-made crusts like flatbreads or naan work as quick alternatives.
8. What’s the best way to slice fresh mozzarella?
Use a sharp knife or a cheese slicer for clean, uniform slices.
9. Can I grill this pizza?
Definitely! Cook the dough on a hot grill for 2-3 minutes per side, then add toppings and finish on indirect heat.
10. Can I add other herbs besides basil?
Yes, oregano, thyme, or parsley can enhance the flavor profile.
Tips for Perfect Caprese Pizza
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Allow the dough to rest at room temperature before rolling; this makes it more pliable.
- For a restaurant-style crust, brush the edges with olive oil before baking.
Conclusion
This Sheet-Pan Caprese Pizza brings a perfect blend of classic Italian flavors and modern convenience to your table. From the chewy homemade crust to the fresh toppings and tangy balsamic drizzle, every bite is a celebration of simplicity and taste.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a family meal, or simply indulging in a pizza night, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Don’t be afraid to customize and experiment—after all, the beauty of pizza lies in its versatility.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and create a pizza that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Buon appetito!