Homemade Frozen Pizza

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making your own pizza from scratch. The aroma that fills your kitchen, the joy of customizing toppings, and the convenience of having a homemade frozen pizza ready to bake at a moment’s notice are just a few reasons why this has become my go-to recipe. You can whip up a batch, freeze them for later, and enjoy delicious, fresh pizza whenever you crave it. Let’s dive into the world of Homemade Frozen Pizza!

Why It’s My Go-To

Homemade frozen pizza is not just a meal; it’s an experience. With this recipe, you can control the ingredients, ensuring that everything is fresh and tailored to your taste. Craving a classic Margherita? Load it up with fresh basil and mozzarella. Want to spice things up? Try a barbecue chicken pizza with red onions and cilantro. The possibilities are endless! Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover ingredients from your fridge, reducing waste while satisfying your pizza cravings.

Shopping List

• 2 1/4 cups bread flour: Provides the perfect chewy texture.
• 3/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor of the dough.
• 1/2 teaspoon instant yeast: Helps the dough rise quickly.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and flavor.
• 1 teaspoon whole fennel seed: Imparts a lovely aromatic quality.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: A touch of herby goodness.
• 7/8 cup (7 ounces) cold water: Helps bind everything together.
• Cornmeal: For dusting the pizza peel, preventing sticking.

Must-Have Equipment

• Mixing bowl: For combining your ingredients.
• Pizza stone or baking sheet: Ideal for cooking your pizza to crispy perfection.
• Pizza peel: Makes transferring your pizza to the oven a breeze.
• Plastic wrap or freezer bags: Essential for storing your frozen pizzas.

Homemade Frozen Pizza Cooking Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, salt, instant yeast, fennel seed, and dried thyme. Mix well to ensure the yeast and herbs are evenly distributed.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the olive oil and cold water. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball and let rest for another 10 minutes.

Step 6: Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface, roll out each ball into a 10-12 inch round, about 1/4 inch thick. Transfer to a cornmeal-dusted pizza peel or baking sheet.

Step 7: Add Toppings

Now comes the fun part! Top your pizza with your favorite sauces, cheeses, and toppings. Keep in mind that less is more; you don’t want to overload the pizza and make it soggy.

Step 8: Pre-Freezing the Pizzas

Before freezing, it’s best to partially bake the pizzas. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and bake each pizza for about 5-7 minutes, just until the crust sets but not browned. Allow the pizzas to cool completely.

Step 9: Freeze the Pizzas

Once cooled, wrap each pizza tightly in plastic wrap or place in freezer bags. Label with the date and toppings, then store in the freezer.

Step 10: Baking from Frozen

When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Remove the plastic wrap from the pizza and place it directly on a pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

If you’re looking for low-carb or keto-friendly options, here are some alternatives:

• Cauliflower crust: Grate cauliflower, steam it, then mix with cheese and egg to form a dough.
• Almond flour crust: Combine almond flour, eggs, and cheese for a delicious low-carb base.
• Eggplant slices: Use thick slices of eggplant as a base for mini pizzas.
• Zucchini boats: Halve zucchini and scoop out a bit to create a ‘boat’ for toppings.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

When making Homemade Frozen Pizza, there are a few common pitfalls to avoid:

• Overworking the dough: If it becomes tough, knead less and allow for longer resting times.
• Soggy crust: Avoid too many wet toppings; consider pre-cooking certain veggies.
• Burnt edges: Keep an eye on the pizza while it bakes; oven temperatures can vary.

Save It for Later

To save your homemade frozen pizzas for later, ensure they are properly wrapped to prevent freezer burn. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. Just remember to label them with the date and toppings to keep track of what you have!

Your Top Questions

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but the texture may be slightly different. Bread flour provides a chewier crust due to its higher protein content.

How can I prevent my pizza from getting soggy when baking from frozen?

To prevent sogginess, make sure to pre-bake your pizzas before freezing, and avoid adding too many wet toppings.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Just bring it back to room temperature before rolling it out.

What are some good topping combinations for frozen pizza?

Some favorite combinations include classic pepperoni and mozzarella, fresh spinach with feta, or a barbecue chicken with red onion and cilantro. Be creative!

Next Steps

Now that you have your own Homemade Frozen Pizza recipe, gather your ingredients and get ready to create some pizza magic! Whether for a cozy night in or a last-minute party, these pizzas are sure to impress. Don’t forget to experiment with toppings and flavors. Make it your own and enjoy every delicious bite!