Lunch Lady Pizza

Lunch Lady Pizza

Lunch Lady Pizza brings back fond memories of school lunches, where a pizza slice was a delight to look forward to. It’s a classic recipe that many have cherished over the years. This hearty pizza is easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd or for a family dinner. With its thick crust, savory toppings, and gooey cheese, it’s a sure hit for both kids and adults alike.

Why Make This Recipe

There are several reasons to whip up a batch of Lunch Lady Pizza. First, it’s incredibly satisfying and gives you a sense of nostalgia. Second, it’s an easy recipe that doesn’t require advanced cooking skills. You can enjoy it fresh from the oven or customize it with your favorite toppings. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep and can be frozen for later enjoyment.

How to Make Lunch Lady Pizza

Making Lunch Lady Pizza is a straightforward process. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious pizza ready in no time!

Ingredients:

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup nonfat dry milk powder
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 2/3 – 2 cups warm water
• 2 1/2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 0.25 oz packet rapid-rise yeast
• 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp yellow cornmeal
• 1/2 lb lean ground beef
• 1/2 lb mild Italian sausage
• 1 3/4 cup pizza sauce
• 4 cups mozzarella cheese
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, combine flour, dry milk, and salt. Stir to mix well.
2. In a separate bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast; let it sit for a few minutes until foamy.
3. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture. Mix until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl; cover and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Roll out the dough and place it on a greased baking sheet, sprinkling the cornmeal on the bottom.
7. Brown the ground beef and Italian sausage in a skillet. Drain excess fat.
8. Spread pizza sauce over the crust, add the cooked meats, and top with mozzarella cheese and Italian seasoning.
9. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
10. Let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

How to Serve Lunch Lady Pizza

Serve your Lunch Lady Pizza hot, straight from the oven. You can cut it into squares or triangle slices for easy eating. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Kids enjoy it with a glass of milk, while adults can have theirs with a refreshing beverage.

How to Store Lunch Lady Pizza

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze individual slices. Just wrap them well in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They will last in the freezer for 2-3 months.

Tips to Make Lunch Lady Pizza

• Make sure the water is warm, but not too hot, to activate the yeast properly.
• You can add vegetables like bell peppers or onions if you want more flavor.
• Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Variation

You can easily make a veggie version by omitting the meats and adding more vegetables like mushrooms, olives, or spinach. A different type of sauce, like pesto or white sauce, can also create a unique flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, you can save time using store-bought pizza dough. Just follow the instructions on the package for rolling and baking.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.

3. How can I make it spicier?
To add some heat, include spicy sausage or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the toppings before baking.

Enjoy your homemade Lunch Lady Pizza, a nostalgic and delicious dish that is always a crowd-pleaser!