Lunch Lady Pizza
Lunch Lady Pizza is a comforting and familiar dish that many of us remember from our school days. This recipe gives you a chance to recreate that nostalgic taste right in your own kitchen. It features a soft, chewy crust topped with savory meats and gooey cheese, perfect for lunch or dinner.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Lunch Lady Pizza at home is fun and rewarding. It brings back memories of childhood while allowing you to customize the toppings to your liking. This recipe is also easy to follow, making it a perfect choice for families or anyone who wants a quick and satisfying meal. Plus, it’s a great way to include your kids in the cooking process!
How to Make Lunch Lady Pizza
Ingredients:
- 2¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup nonfat dry milk powder
- 2 tsp salt
- 1⅔-2 cups warm water
- 2½ tbsp granulated sugar
- ¼ oz pkt rapid-rise yeast
- 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp yellow cornmeal
- ½ lb lean ground beef
- ½ lb mild Italian sausage
- 1¾ cup pizza sauce
- 4 cups mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
Directions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, dry milk powder, salt, sugar, and yeast.
- Mix in the warm water and olive oil until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth, then let rise until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Roll out the dough and press it into a greased baking sheet sprinkled with cornmeal.
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until browned. Drain the excess fat.
- Spread pizza sauce over the dough, then top with the cooked meat, mozzarella cheese, and Italian seasoning.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
- Slice and serve.
How to Serve Lunch Lady Pizza
Serve Lunch Lady Pizza hot out of the oven, sliced into squares. It’s great on its own or with a side salad. You can also add some garlic bread or a cheese breadstick for a complete meal.
How to Store Lunch Lady Pizza
If you have leftovers, let the pizza cool completely. Then, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat slices in the microwave or bake them in the oven until warm.
Tips to Make Lunch Lady Pizza
- Make sure your water is warm but not too hot when mixing the dough. This helps the yeast activate properly.
- Don’t skip the kneading step; it helps develop a nice texture for the crust.
- Feel free to experiment with different toppings like vegetables or different cheeses!
Variation
You can switch the meats with your favorite toppings. Add pepperoni, mushrooms, or bell peppers to create a version that suits your taste. Vegetarian options are also welcome!
FAQs
1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just bring it to room temperature before rolling it out.
2. How do I know when the pizza is done?
The pizza is done when the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden brown. You can also check the bottom of the crust to ensure it is cooked.
3. Can I freeze Lunch Lady Pizza?
Absolutely! After baking, let it cool and wrap it tightly. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from the freezer, adding a little extra time in the oven.
