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Crispy Tomato Herb Cheese Pan Pizza Recipe
Ben Carraoli

Crispy Tomato Herb Cheese Pan Pizza Recipe

When I made this crispy tomato herb cheese pan pizza for the first time, I felt like I’d unlocked the secret to restaurant-quality pizza at home. The crunchy edges, soft and cheesy center, and herby tomato flavors had my whole family asking for seconds.
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Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Calories: 498
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb pizza dough store-bought or homemade; stretchable dough creates the ideal airy crust.
  • 1 tbsp dried basil the classic herby base that screams Italian.
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano adds a punch of robust, earthy flavor.
  • 2 tsp dried thyme a subtle floral note that elevates the herb mix.
  • 2 tsp dried rosemary aromatic and woody, perfect for pizza.
  • ½ tsp crushed fennel seed a hint of sweetness that complements the cheese and sauce.
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes just enough spice to keep it flavorful, not overwhelming.
  • 1 –2 garlic cloves chopped (for a garlicky, savory kick).
  • 1 cup shredded provolone cheese melts beautifully for a creamy base.
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella whole milk; adds stringy, cheesy goodness.
  • ½ cup marinara sauce use a thick, flavorful sauce to avoid sogginess.
  • 3 oz pepperoni slices optional (adds a salty, meaty touch if desired).
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan or Asiago cheese for a nutty, salty finish.
  • Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling; makes the crust golden and crispy.

Method
 

  1. Start by lightly oiling a 10–11-inch cast-iron skillet. Place your pizza dough in the skillet and drizzle a little olive oil on top. Gently stretch the dough out toward the edges of the pan, being careful not to tear it. Cover the skillet with plastic wrap and let the dough rest for at least 30 minutes, allowing it to rise and become airy.
  2. While the dough is resting, set your oven to 450°F and position the rack in the upper third. This high, even heat is key to achieving those crispy edges that make this pizza so addictive.
  3. Blend the dried basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, crushed fennel seed, red pepper flakes, and chopped garlic in a small bowl. This mix is what gives the pizza its signature punch of flavor, so don’t skip it!
  4. Drizzle olive oil over the stretched dough. Evenly sprinkle a generous amount of the herb mix across the surface. Add a layer of provolone and mozzarella cheese. Next, dollop spoonfuls of marinara sauce over the cheese, avoiding spreading to keep flavorful pools intact. Finish with pepperoni slices, if using, and an extra sprinkle of herbs.
  5. Place the skillet in your preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes. Rotate the skillet to ensure even baking, then bake for another 10 minutes until the edges are golden and the cheese is bubbling. The aroma alone will have your mouth watering!
  6. Once out of the oven, top the pizza with grated Parmesan or Asiago cheese for extra flavor. Slice it into portions right in the skillet for that rustic, casual vibe, and serve it hot. Every cheesy, herby bite will be worth the effort!