Cheesy Skillet Pizza

Cheesy Skillet Pizza

Let’s face it—when the craving hits for something hot, gooey, and downright comforting, nothing satisfies like pizza. But not just any pizza. This Cheesy Skillet Pizza is loaded with melted cheese, savory sausage, pepperoni, and pillowy dough balls—all baked into one glorious cast-iron skillet. It’s the kind of crowd-pleaser that’s just as perfect for game day as it is for a casual weeknight dinner.

Cheesy Skillet Pizza | The Food Cafe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Extra cheesy – Uses mozzarella and parmesan
• Cast iron crisp – Golden crust thanks to the skillet
• Crowd-friendly – Makes 18 servings
• Hands-off baking – Minimal shaping, maximum payoff

Ingredient Overview

What You’ll Need for Skillet Pizza Perfection:

• 6 tablespoons butter – melted for coating dough
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic – flavor base
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – optional kick
• 1 package (16 ounces) frozen bread dough dinner rolls, thawed – the base for the crust
• 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, divided – creamy meltiness
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – classic herb blend
• 1 cup pizza sauce – store-bought or homemade
• 1 cup (3/4 ounce) sliced pepperoni – savory bite
• 1 cup cooked ground sausage – crumbled and browned
• 1/4 cup diced green peppers – fresh crunch
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese – salty finish
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh basil – bright and herby

Pro Tip: Let the dough rise in a warm space to ensure the best fluffy texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

How to Make Cheesy Skillet Pizza

1. Make the Garlic Butter: In a small saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons of butter with 1 teaspoon garlic and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes. Stir until fragrant.
2. Prep the Dough Balls: Cut each thawed dinner roll into thirds. Roll into balls, dip in butter mixture, and arrange loosely around the outer edge of a 10-inch cast-iron skillet, leaving the center open.
3. Let It Rise: Cover with a cloth and allow to rise in a warm place until almost doubled in size, about 30 minutes.
4. Bake the Crust: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Bake the dough balls for 15–18 minutes until lightly browned.
5. Layer the Toppings: Remove from oven. Spread 1/2 cup pizza sauce in the center. Add 1/2 cup each of pepperoni, sausage, and mozzarella. Repeat with remaining sauce, meats, and cheese. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning.
6. Final Bake: Cover loosely with foil and return to the oven. Bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve: Top with 1/4 cup diced green peppers and 2 tablespoons fresh basil. Serve immediately.