Viral Pizza Recipe—How to Make Pizza Hut Style Pan Pizza

Oh, the memories! Do you remember that golden, crispy, perfectly chewy crust of a Pizza Hut Pan Pizza? I certainly do! My own love affair with pan pizza started years ago during a trip to Disney World. We arrived super late, utterly starving, and the only place open near our hotel was a Pizza Hut. That pan pizza? It was one of the tastiest things I had ever eaten, without exaggeration. Now, it might have been partly because I was absolutely ravenous, but ever since that night, I’ve had a special place in my heart for deep-dish, Pizza Hut style pan pizza.

And guess what? After a lot of experimenting, I’ve finally cracked the code! I’m thrilled to share with you what I believe is the EXACT replica recipe for Pizza Hut Pan Pizza! This isn’t just “close”—the crust is unbelievably identical, the sauce hits that perfect sweet and savory note just like theirs, and you get to load it up with all your favorite toppings. Get ready, because this is the best copycat Pizza Hut pizza recipe you’ll ever make right at home!

Your Homemade Pizza Hut Pan Pizza: Recipe Breakdown

Get ready to convert your kitchen to your favorite pizzeria! This recipe makes two perfect pizzas, ideal for a family dinner or sharing with friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to pan pizza perfection!

For the Irresistible Pan Pizza Dough:

• ¼ Cup Non-Fat Dry Milk
• 1⅓ Cup Warm Water (aim for around 105-115°F or 40-46°C—warm to the touch but not hot)
• ¼ Ounce Active Dry Yeast (one small packet)
• ¼ Tsp Salt
• 1 Tbsp Sugar
• 4 Cups All-Purpose Flour
• 6 Tbsps Vegetable Oil (plus extra for the pans)

For the Signature Sweet & Savory Pizza Sauce:

• 8 Ounces Tomato Sauce (plain, unsweetened)
• 2 tsp Dried Oregano
• 2 tsp Dried Basil
• 1 Tsp Marjoram
• 1 Tsp Garlic Powder
• ½ Tsp Onion Powder
• ¼ Tsp Salt
• 3 Tbsps Grated Parmesan Cheese (or more, to taste!)
• 1 Tbsp Sugar

For Assembling Your Masterpiece:

• Fresh Mozzarella Cheese, shredded (the key to that gooey pull!)
• Your favorite Pizza Toppings (pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, cooked sausage—get creative!)
• Optional: A sprinkle of Italian Seasoning

Step-by-Step Instructions: Let’s Make Pan Pizza Magic!

Follow these steps closely, and you’ll be amazed at the delicious results!

Step 1: Crafting the Perfect Pan Pizza Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the non-fat dry milk, active dry yeast, salt, and sugar. Pour in the warm water and let this mixture sit undisturbed for about five minutes. You’ll see the yeast start to foam, which tells you it’s alive and ready to work its magic!
2. From the Dough: Next, add the vegetable oil and then gradually fold in the all-purpose flour. Use your hands to mix and bring the ingredients together until a shaggy dough ball forms.
3. Knead for perfection: Easy: a clean surface (countertop or a large cutting board) and flour. Turn the dough onto your floured surface and knead for about 5-10 minutes. This process develops the gluten, giving your crust that incredible chewiness. You will realize that it is ready when the dough seems clean and elastic.
4. Prepare for Rising: Divide your beautifully kneaded dough in half. Now, grab two 9-inch cake pans. Add three tablespoons of vegetable oil into each pan, making sure to coat the bottom and sides generously. This oil is important to get the signature, sharp, golden pan crust!
5. Let it rise! Take each half of the dough and roll it out (or gently press it) into a circle that fits snugly into each prepared pan. Don’t worry if it doesn’t perfectly reach the edges—it will as it rises. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Keep them in a warm, draft-free area for an hour. This is essential for the airy, fluffy texture.

Step 2: Whisking Up the Sweet & Savory Pizza Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients: While your dough is rising, you can prepare the delicious sauce. In a small mixing bowl, combine the tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, marjoram, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, sugar, and Parmesan cheese.
2. Taste and adjust: Give it a little taste test! I always do this to see if it needs a tiny bit more salt, sugar, or any other seasoning to perfectly hit that sweet and savory balance that reminds me so much of Pizza Hut’s sauce.

Step 3: Preparing and Baking Your Pizza Hut Masterpiece

1. Preheat Oven: While your dough is finishing its rise (or after it has risen), preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Top Your Pizza: Once the dough has proudly risen in its pans, it’s time to add your toppings! Start by spreading a beneficial layer of your self-made pizza sauce over the dough. Next, pile on that delicious fresh mozzarella cheese—don’t be shy! Finally, add any of your favorite pizza toppings. I often add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning on top for an extra aromatic kick.
3. First Bake (Low Heat): Carefully place your pizzas in the preheated oven. Bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes.
4. Second Bake (High Heat for Crispiness!): After 10 minutes, increase the oven temperature to 475°F (245°C). Bake for another 6 minutes. This two-stage baking process is key to getting that super crispy, golden bottom crust and perfectly melted cheese.
5. Cool & Enjoy: Once baked to golden perfection, carefully remove the pizzas from the oven. Let them cool in the pans for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the cheese set slightly and makes it easier to remove. Then, slide them out, slice, and enjoy your incredible homemade Pizza Hut Pan Pizza!

• Important Tip: Be very careful not to get any oil from the pan onto the exposed dough crust during this higher-heat bake, as it can cause it to burn quickly.

Tips & Tricks for Your Best Pizza Hut Style Pan Pizza:

• Warm Spot for Rising: If your kitchen is cool, try warming your oven slightly (just to 100°F/38°C for a minute or two, then turn it off) and let your dough rise in there.

• Don’t Skimp on Oil: That oil in the pan is essential for the signature crispy, fried-dough-like crust. Embrace it!

• Top ordering: I always recommend first sauce, then cheese, then top. This helps prevent the toppings from making the crust soggy.

• Cheese Choice: While mozzarella is classic, a blend of mozzarella and a little provolone or cheddar can add even more flavor.

• Leftovers? If you have any leftovers (unlikely, I know!), reheat them in a pan on the stovetop over medium heat until the bottom crisps up, then finish in a preheated oven for a few minutes to remove cheese.

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