Sicilian Sheet Pan Pizza: The Ultimate Guide to Making It at Home

Sweet potato spinach phyllo pie: Prepare to be amazed by this show-stopping vegetarian centerpiece that’s as delicious as it is beautiful! Imagine layers of flaky, golden phyllo pastry embracing a creamy, savory filling of sweet potatoes, vibrant spinach, and fragrant herbs. This isn’t just a pie; it’s an experience.

While phyllo dough has ancient roots in the Middle East and the Balkans, where it’s used in countless sweet and savory dishes, this particular combination of sweet potato and spinach offers a modern twist on a classic technique. Think of it as a celebration of seasonal flavors, perfectly suited for a cozy autumn dinner or a festive holiday gathering.

What makes this sweet potato spinach phyllo pie so irresistible? It’s the delightful contrast of textures – the crisp, shattering phyllo against the smooth, almost decadent filling. The sweetness of the sweet potatoes is beautifully balanced by the earthy spinach and the savory herbs, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to assemble, making it a perfect dish for both experienced cooks and kitchen novices alike. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this unforgettable vegetarian delight!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
• 500g (about 4 cups) bread flour, plus more for dusting
• 10g (about 2 teaspoons) instant dry yeast
• 10g (about 2 teaspoons) sugar
• 15g (about 1 tablespoon) kosher salt
• 400ml (about 1 2/3 cups) lukewarm water (around 105-115°F or 40-46°C)
• 60ml (about 1/4 cup) olive oil, plus more for greasing the pan
• For the Sauce:
• 794g (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• For the Toppings:
• 340g (12 ounces) mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 113g (4 ounces) provolone cheese, shredded (optional, but highly recommended!)
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for sprinkling
• Your favorite pizza toppings! (Pepperoni, sausage, olives, onions, peppers, mushrooms, etc.)
• Olive oil, for drizzling
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Dough:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the bread flour, instant dry yeast, sugar, and salt. Make sure the yeast and salt don’t directly touch each other, as the salt can inhibit the yeast’s activity.
2. Add Water and Oil: Gradually add the lukewarm water to the dry ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms. Then, add the olive oil and continue mixing until the dough starts to come together.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If you’re using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook attachment on medium speed for about 6-8 minutes. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
4. First Rise: Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat it with the oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This first rise is crucial for developing the flavor and texture of the dough.
5. Prepare the Pan: While the dough is rising, generously grease a 13×18 inch sheet pan with olive oil. Don’t skimp on the oil! This will help the bottom of the pizza get nice and crispy.
6. Punch Down and Stretch: Once the dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release the air. Turn the dough out onto the prepared sheet pan. Using your fingertips, gently stretch and press the dough to fill the entire pan. It’s okay if it doesn’t reach the corners at first; you can come back to it later.
7. Second Rise (Proofing): Cover the sheet pan with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise again for 30-45 minutes. This second rise, also known as proofing, is important for creating a light and airy crust. During this time, the dough will relax and spread out further in the pan.

Making the Sauce:

1. Sauté Garlic: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.
2. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the saucepan. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
4. Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add a pinch of sugar if the sauce is too acidic.

Assembling and Baking the Pizza:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Make sure your oven rack is in the middle position.
2. Dimple the Dough: After the second rise, use your fingertips to create dimples all over the surface of the dough. This will help prevent the dough from puffing up too much during baking and will create little pockets for the sauce to settle into.
3. Add the Sauce: Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dimpled dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the mozzarella and provolone cheese (if using) evenly over the sauce.
5. Add Toppings: Add your favorite pizza toppings. I love pepperoni, sausage, olives, onions, and peppers on my Sicilian pizza!
6. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Drizzle a generous amount of olive oil over the pizza. This will help the toppings brown nicely and add flavor.
7. Bake the Pizza: Bake the pizza for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.
8. Broil (Optional): For a more golden-brown and slightly charred top, you can broil the pizza for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Watch it closely to prevent burning!
9. Cool and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves (if using).

Tips for the Best Sicilian Sheet Pan Pizza:

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the pizza will taste. Use good quality bread flour, crushed tomatoes, and cheese.
• Don’t Skimp on the Olive Oil: Olive oil is essential for a crispy crust and flavorful toppings.
• Let the Dough Rise Properly: The rising times are crucial for developing the flavor and texture of the dough. Don’t rush the process!
• Preheat Your Oven Well: A hot oven is essential for a crispy crust.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to customize the toppings to your liking.
• Use a Pizza Stone or Steel (Optional): If you have a pizza stone or steel, you can place it in the oven while it preheats. This will help the bottom of the pizza get even crispier.
• Make Ahead: The dough can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just bring it to room temperature before stretching it into the pan. The sauce can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Variations:

• Vegetarian: Load up the pizza with vegetables like mushrooms, onions, peppers, olives, and artichoke hearts.
• Meat Lovers: Add your favorite meats like pepperoni, sausage, bacon, and ham.
• Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes to the sauce or use spicy sausage.
• White Pizza: Skip the tomato sauce and use a garlic-herb infused olive oil base instead. Top with ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.

This Sicilian sheet pan pizza recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The thick, airy crust, flavorful sauce, and generous toppings make it a perfect meal for any occasion. Enjoy!

Conclusion:

This Sicilian sheet pan pizza isn’t just another pizza recipe; it’s an experience, a journey to the sun-drenched shores of Sicily with every single bite. The crispy, yet airy, crust, the tangy tomato sauce bursting with Mediterranean herbs, and the generous blanket of melted cheese all combine to create a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. I truly believe this is a must-try recipe for anyone who appreciates authentic, homemade goodness.

What makes this recipe so special is its simplicity and versatility. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, even for beginner cooks, and the results are consistently impressive. The sheet pan method ensures that everyone gets a perfectly cooked slice, with that coveted crispy edge and a soft, chewy interior. Forget ordering takeout; this is a pizza that you can proudly serve to family and friends, knowing that you’ve created something truly special.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to experiment with different toppings to create your own signature Sicilian masterpiece. Add some spicy pepperoni for a fiery kick, or load it up with roasted vegetables for a vegetarian delight. Consider using different cheeses, like provolone or fontina, to add a unique flavor profile. For a truly authentic touch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top before baking for extra crunch.

Here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your Sicilian sheet pan pizza experience:

* Serve it with a simple green salad: The fresh, crisp greens provide a refreshing contrast to the rich pizza. A light vinaigrette dressing will complement the flavors perfectly.
* Pair it with a glass of Italian wine: A crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio, or a light-bodied red wine, like Chianti, will enhance the flavors of the pizza.
* Offer a selection of dipping sauces: Ranch, garlic butter, or even a spicy marinara sauce can add an extra layer of flavor and excitement.
* Make it a pizza party: Invite your friends and family over and let everyone customize their own slices with a variety of toppings.

I’m confident that you’ll absolutely love this Sicilian sheet pan pizza recipe. It’s a crowd-pleaser, a family favorite, and a guaranteed success every time. It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover vegetables or meats, making it a budget-friendly option as well.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure to Sicily. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe? What toppings did you use? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. Let’s create a community of pizza lovers and inspire each other with our culinary creations. I can’t wait to see what you come up with! Happy baking, and Buon Appetito!