This Viral Pan Pizza Recipe Uses Your 9×13 and Easy Store-Bought Shortcuts

Quick Benefits

This Viral Pan Pizza Recipe is the ultimate easy, no-fuss homemade pizza that delivers a crispy, golden crust with minimal effort. Using store-bought pizza dough and flavorful shortcuts, you get all the deliciousness of deep-dish pizza without the hassle of making dough from scratch. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, game days, or casual gatherings—ready in just 45 minutes!

Essential Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh pizza dough, thawed
• Cooking spray
• 5 tablespoons Trader Joe’s Garlic Spread-Dip
• 1 to 2 tablespoons Trader Joe’s Italian Bomba Hot Pepper Sauce
• 2 ounces sliced Calabrese salami (about 1/3 cup), divided
• 1 1/2 ounces pepperoni (about 1/3 cup), divided
• 6 ounces low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded (1 1/2 cups), divided
• 3 tablespoons Trader Joe’s Pesto Genovese
• 1/4 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat & Prep: Remove pizza dough from the refrigerator 20 minutes before making the pizza. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Prepare the Dough: Spray a 9×13-inch metal baking pan with cooking spray. Place the dough in the pan and stretch to the edges. If it resists, cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it relax for 10 minutes before stretching again.
3. Layer the Sauces: Spread Garlic Spread-Dip evenly over the dough. Dollop with Bomba Hot Pepper Sauce, spreading evenly over the garlic spread.
4. Add Toppings: Place half of the salami and pepperoni over the sauces. Sprinkle with 3/4 cup of mozzarella. Add the remaining salami and pepperoni, then sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella.
5. Dollop the Pesto: Using a spoon, dollop about 1/2 teaspoon at a time over the pizza.
6. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
7. Garnish & Serve: Transfer the pizza to a cutting board, sprinkle with fresh basil leaves, slice, and enjoy!

Health Benefits

• High in Protein: Contains 22g of protein per serving, making it a filling meal.
• Calcium Boost: Provides 312mg of calcium, essential for strong bones.
• Rich in Flavor with Less Effort: Using pre-made sauces and dough saves time while still delivering restaurant-quality taste.
• Balanced Carbs & Fats: Offers a mix of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein for a satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Side Salad: Pair with a fresh arugula or Caesar salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Dipping Sauces: Serve with marinara, ranch, or spicy aioli for extra flavor.
• As an Appetizer: Cut into smaller squares for a perfect party snack.
• With a Glass of Wine: Pair with a light red wine like Pinot Noir or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.

Creative Variations

• Veggie Lovers’ Pizza: Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions for a vegetarian twist.
• Spicy Kick: Increase the Bomba Hot Pepper Sauce or add red pepper flakes.
• BBQ Chicken Version: Swap pepperoni and salami for shredded rotisserie chicken and BBQ sauce.
• Four-Cheese Delight: Use a blend of mozzarella, Parmesan, provolone, and cheddar for a cheesier bite.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftover pizza in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed bag for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
• Reheating: Warm in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer for 3 minutes.

Pro Tips

• Use a Metal Pan: A metal baking pan gives the crust a crispy, golden texture.
• Let Dough Relax: If the dough is hard to stretch, let it sit covered for 10-15 minutes.
• Rotate for Even Cooking: Turning the pan halfway through baking ensures even crisping.
• Finish with Fresh Basil: Adding basil after baking keeps its bright flavor intact.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes! This recipe is designed for pre-made dough to make it quick and easy.

What if I don’t have a metal pan?

You can use a glass or ceramic baking dish, but it may result in a softer crust.

How do I make this pizza gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free pizza dough alternative and ensure toppings are gluten-free.

Can I make this without Bomba Hot Pepper Sauce?

Yes! Substitute it with red pepper flakes or chili oil for heat.

What’s the best way to keep the crust crispy?

Bake the pizza on the bottom rack of the oven to ensure even heat distribution.

This Viral Pan Pizza Recipe is a quick, flavorful, and hassle-free way to enjoy homemade pizza. With easy shortcuts and minimal prep, you get a crispy, cheesy, and delicious pizza—perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings!

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