Oct . 19, 2024 13:17 Back to list

upside down pizza in cast iron skillet

Upside Down Pizza in a Cast Iron Skillet A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish

When it comes to comfort food, pizza undoubtedly holds a special place in our hearts. Its endless combination of toppings and styles can satisfy almost any craving. One intriguing variation of this beloved dish is the upside-down pizza made in a cast iron skillet. This unique cooking method gives the classic pizza a crispy crust, an ooey-gooey cheese layer, and a burst of flavors that keep you coming back for more.

The beauty of upside-down pizza lies in its method. Instead of layering the toppings on top of the cheese, you start with the sauce at the bottom and the cheese and toppings on top. What results is a deliciously cheesy base and a crispy, caramelized top layer that is simply irresistible. Plus, cooking it in a cast iron skillet lends a rustic feel and enhances the flavors through its superior heat retention and distribution.

Ingredients You'll Need

To make an upside-down pizza in a cast iron skillet, you’ll need the following ingredients

- Pizza Dough You can use store-bought or homemade dough. The key is that it should be enough to cover the base and sides of your skillet. - Pizza Sauce A good quality tomato sauce or homemade marinara sauce works wonderfully. - Cheese Mozzarella is the classic choice, but feel free to mix in provolone, cheddar, or a blend of your favorites. - Toppings This is where you can get creative! Pepperoni, bell peppers, onions, olives, mushrooms, and even fresh basil or spinach make great additions. - Olive Oil To prevent sticking and add flavor. - Seasoning Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Skillet Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). Take a 10 to 12-inch cast iron skillet and add a couple of tablespoons of olive oil. Heat the skillet on the stove over medium heat for a few minutes to ensure the oil is hot.

upside down pizza in cast iron skillet

2. Roll Out the Dough On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough to a size that will fit the bottom and sides of your skillet. You want it to be slightly larger than the skillet so it can drape over the edges slightly.

3. Layer the Ingredients Once the skillet is hot, carefully lay the dough in the skillet, pressing it gently to form the base. Add your pizza sauce evenly over the dough, then sprinkle a generous layer of cheese on top. Now add your chosen toppings, followed by another layer of cheese to hold everything together.

4. Baking Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

5. Serve Remove the skillet from the oven, allow it to sit for a few minutes, then use a plate to carefully flip the pizza upside down. The result is a beautifully layered dish, perfect for serving.

Final Thoughts

Upside-down pizza in a cast iron skillet not only tastes fantastic but also offers an impressive presentation that’s sure to wow your family and friends. This dish marries the crunchiness of a well-cooked crust with the gooey deliciousness of cheese and toppings, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite.

Whether you’re having a cozy night in, hosting a game day gathering, or entertaining guests, this upside-down pizza is a fun and exciting twist on the classic that everyone will enjoy. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your skillet, and dive into the deliciousness of upside-down pizza – it might just become your new favorite way to make this timeless dish!