When you think about pizza, chances are your mind wanders to crispy crusts and bubbling cheese, perhaps inspired by the bustling streets of New York or the traditional wood-fired ovens of Italy. However, one of the most beloved pizza styles doesn’t hail from the high-end pizzerias but is instead rooted in the comforting kitchens of countless Italian-American homes — the Grandma Pizza. Its name pays homage to the matriarchs of Italian families who perfected this simple yet utterly satisfying dish over generations, baking it in their home ovens without any fancy tools but armed with culinary love and tradition. This unassuming, rectangular pizza with a distinctly crispy yet chewy crust, delightfully balanced sauce, and gooey cheese is not just a recipe; it captures the essence of family and cozy home gatherings.
Description about Grandma Pizza
Grandma Pizza is known for its unique preparation technique that defies the conventional methods for pizza making. Unlike the regular round pies usually associated with pizza, Grandma Pizza is traditionally square or rectangular and is baked in a pan. The dough is notably thicker than the Neapolitan style yet thinner than the deep-dish pizzas of Chicago. What truly distinguishes Grandma Pizza is the delightful crispy crust that comes from being pressed into an olive-oil coated pan, resulting in a delicious blend of textures in every bite — a combination of crispy, airy, and chewy, with a rich, savory layer of tomato sauce under a blanket of melted mozzarella. Originating from Long Island, New York, Grandma Pizza is believed to have been created by Italian-American grandmothers using whatever resources available to replicate the flavors of Italy. It’s a testament to the power of simplicity in Italian cooking: minimal ingredients treated with respect can yield something decidedly greater than the sum of its parts.
Ingredients about Grandma Pizza
Crafting the perfect Grandma Pizza requires a selection of simple yet high-quality ingredients that come together to create its unforgettable flavor.
List of Ingredients with Measurements
- For the Dough:
- 406 grams bread flour (or 3 1/4 cups)
- 2 grams instant yeast (or 1/2 teaspoon)
- 8 grams fine sea salt (or 1 1/2 teaspoons)
- 4 grams sugar (or 1 teaspoon)
- 260 grams cold water (9 ounces)
- 14 grams olive oil (or 1 tablespoon)
- For the Topping:
- 1 ~24-ounce dough ball (from above)
- 1 28-ounce can plum tomatoes (hand crushed and completely drained of liquid)
- 12-16 ounces sliced mozzarella cheese (weight will vary, but use enough to cover the pizza completely)
- 3 tablespoons Pecorino Romano (grated)
- 3/4 cup olive oil (divided)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon Sicilian oregano (or Italian)
Optional Ingredient Substitutions
- Flour: If bread flour is unavailable, you can substitute with all-purpose flour, though the texture will be slightly different.
- Yeast: Active dry yeast can be used instead of instant yeast; just increase the amount slightly and activate it in warm water beforehand.
- Cheese: For a sharper flavor, substitute part of the mozzarella with provolone or fontina.
- Tomato Sauce: Crushed canned San Marzano tomatoes can substitute plum tomatoes for a richer taste.
How to Make Grandma Pizza Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by mixing the bread flour, instant yeast, sea salt, and sugar together in a large bowl. Create a well in the middle and pour in the cold water while stirring gently with a wooden spoon or your hands. Stir until the dough begins to come together. Incorporate 14 grams of olive oil, and then knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 7-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Cover the dough with a damp cloth and allow it to rest in a warm place until it doubles in size, which should take about 1-2 hours depending on ambient temperature.
Step 2: Prepare the Pan
Once the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Take a rectangular baking pan and evenly spread about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the bottom and sides. This step is crucial for achieving the iconic crispy crust of Grandma Pizza.
Step 3: Shape and Proof the Dough
Gently stretch and press the risen dough into the prepared pan, ensuring it reaches all the corners and has an even thickness. Cover the pan with a towel and let the dough rest for another 30 minutes to allow for a second rise.
Step 4: Assemble the Pizza
Increase your oven’s heat to 500°F (260°C) before proceeding to the next step. Hand-crush the drained plum tomatoes until they form a rustic yet even consistency. Add minced garlic, kosher salt, and oregano to the tomato mix and stir well.
Layer the slices of mozzarella over the dough, ensuring even coverage. Spread the tomato mixture gently over the cheese, and then sprinkle the grated Pecorino Romano on top.
Step 5: Bake the Pizza
Place the pizza on the middle rack of the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are a deep golden brown. The hot oil beneath the dough during baking will enhance that sought-after crispy bottom crust.
Step 6: Serve Your Creation
Remove the pizza from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes. Use a spatula to carefully lift it from the pan to ensure no sticking. Slice into squares and serve immediately!
How to Serve Grandma Pizza
Best Ways to Serve Grandma Pizza
Grandma Pizza is best served hot and fresh, straight out of the oven. Its taste is most vibrant when the cheese is still melty, and the tomato sauce remains vividly red and aromatic. The crispy edges are a delight hard to resist as soon as the pizza is cool enough to eat.
Serving Suggestions or Pairings
Pair your Grandma Pizza with a side salad for a refreshing contrast, such as a classic Caesar with a tangy dressing or a mixed greens salad with balsamic vinaigrette. For a festive feel, consider serving it with a selection of roasted vegetables or some bruschetta as an appetizing starter.
Complement your meal with an Italian red wine like Chianti or a robust Belgian beer to enhance the flavors of the pizza. For non-alcoholic options, consider a sparkling Italian soda or homemade lemonade.
How to Store Grandma Pizza
Proper Storage Methods
Once your Grandma Pizza has cooled completely, store leftovers in an airtight container or wrap the slices individually in plastic wrap. Keep them refrigerated and consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness and taste.
Tips for Reheating or Freezing
To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the pizza slices on a baking sheet, and cover with aluminum foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and the crust re-crisps. Alternatively, use a toaster oven for reheating single servings.
If you wish to freeze, wrap individual slices tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, storing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Reheat directly from frozen using the same method as fresh stored pizza, allowing extra time for complete warming.
Tips to Make Grandma Pizza
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overworking the Dough: Avoid kneading the dough too much; it can lead to a tough crust.
- Not Allowing Enough Time to Rise: Skipping sufficient rise time will compromise the texture and flavor of the dough.
- Layering Ingredients Incorrectly: Ensure the cheese goes on before the tomato sauce to prevent a soggy crust.
Helpful Tips for Better Results
- Use a pizza stone under the pan during baking for added heat and even cooking.
- Experiment with different types of mozzarella cheese for diverse flavors and textures.
- Generously oil the baking pan to ensure that wonderfully crispy crust distinctive of Grandma Pizza.
Variation of Grandma Pizza
Suggested Variations or Twists on the Recipe
- Vegetable Lovers: Add toppings like sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for a healthier twist.
- Meat Lovers: Include slices of pepperoni or crumbled Italian sausage for a heartier meal.
Adjustments for Dietary Preferences
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for pizzas.
- Vegan Version: Substitute regular mozzarella with a vegan cheese alternative and omit Pecorino Romano, adding nutritional yeast for extra flavor.
FAQs
What Can I Do if the Dish Isn’t Turning Out Right?
Check your ingredient amounts and make sure your yeast is active. A poor rise often results from inactive yeast or incorrect measurements. Ensure your oven is properly preheated and calibrated to avoid uneven cooking.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the dough a day in advance, store it in the refrigerator after the first rise, and let it come to room temperature before pressing it into the pan and proceeding with the recipe. This can enhance the flavor of the crust significantly.
What Can I Substitute for Ingredients?
You have flexibility with the choice of flour and cheese, as mentioned in the ingredient substitution options. Garlic can be replaced with garlic powder in a pinch, or other fresh herbs can be used instead of oregano for varying flavors.
Grandma Pizza, with its cherished roots and simple ingredients, invites you to give it a try and enjoy the profound satisfaction only authentic home-cooked meals can bring. Whether relishing it hot from the oven or savoring leftovers, this dish is a testament to culinary tradition and the enduring warmth of home cooking.
