Pizza Hut Original Pan Pizza: Recreate the Classic Pizzeria Experience at Home
Unlock the Secret to the Iconic Pan Pizza Crust
Pizza lovers around the world have a special place in their hearts for Pizza Hut’s Original Pan Pizza. With its perfectly crispy, golden crust and generous toppings, it’s a true classic that has been delighting taste buds for decades. Now, you can bring that delicious pizzeria experience to your own kitchen. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to recreate Pizza Hut’s famous Original Pan Pizza, complete with its signature thick and buttery crust. Get ready to savor every cheesy, savory bite!
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F or 43°C)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
For the Pizza:
- 1 1/2 cups pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Your favorite pizza toppings (pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, etc.)
For the Buttery Pan Crust:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and vegetable oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
2. Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it’s preheating.
3. Melt the Butter:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the 1/4 cup of unsalted butter. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried basil, and salt to create a flavorful buttery mixture.
4. Shape the Dough:
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it in half. Roll out one half of the dough into a circle that’s slightly larger than your pizza pan or cast-iron skillet.
- Grease your pizza pan or skillet generously with some of the garlic Parmesan butter.
- Carefully place the rolled-out dough into the greased pan, pressing it up the sides to create a thick edge.
5. Build Your Pizza:
- Spread half of the remaining garlic Parmesan butter over the dough.
- Add your pizza sauce, spreading it evenly across the crust.
- Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Add your favorite pizza toppings. Be creative and load it up with your preferences.
6. Bake to Perfection:
- Place the pizza in the preheated oven (either on a pizza stone or directly on the oven rack) and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
7. Repeat:
- While the first pizza is baking, you can prepare and shape the second pizza using the remaining dough and garlic Parmesan butter.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the pizzas are out of the oven, let them cool for a minute or two, then slice and savor the incredible taste of your homemade Pizza Hut Original Pan Pizza.
Tips and Variations:
Customizing Your Pizza Hut Original Pan Pizza
Tips:
- If you have a pizza stone, use it for a crisper crust. Preheat the stone in the oven while shaping the dough, then slide the pizza onto the stone using a pizza peel or a flat baking sheet.
- For an even crispier crust, you can prebake the dough for about 5 minutes before adding the sauce and toppings.
Variations:
- Create different flavor profiles by experimenting with various toppings. Try BBQ chicken, Hawaiian, or a veggie lover’s version.
- Add a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Customization:
- Personalize your pizza with your favorite ingredients and get creative with the cheese choices. Mozzarella is traditional, but you can add some cheddar, provolone, or even feta for extra flavor.
Storage:
- Any leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or a skillet for a crispy bite.
Cook’s Note:
- Pizza Hut’s Original Pan Pizza is an iconic favorite, and now you have the power to make it at home. The secret to this recipe’s success is in the buttery pan crust.
