If you love the vibrant flavors of a Caprese salad and crave a quick, crowd-pleasing meal, the Sheet Pan Caprese Pizza Recipe is your new best friend. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the classic trio of fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil all atop a crisp, golden sheet pan crust, finished beautifully with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. This recipe is simplicity at its finest and packed with colors and tastes that will brighten any dinner table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple but essential ingredients that each bring something special to the table: from the chewy, golden crust to the creamy mozzarella and fresh basil that makes every bite sing.
- 1 lb pizza dough: The foundation of your crisp, sheet pan crust—store-bought or homemade, it’s the base for all the delicious toppings.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: A light brush on the dough adds richness and encourages that beautiful golden finish during baking.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella: Melts perfectly, creating a gooey, creamy layer that balances the fresh toppings.
- 1–2 Roma tomatoes, sliced: Adds juicy sweetness and bright color, making every slice refreshing and inviting.
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves: The herbaceous burst of basil leaves brings that quintessential Caprese flavor and aroma.
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze: Drizzled over after baking, this tangy-sweet glaze ties all the flavors together beautifully.
- Salt & pepper: A sprinkle enhances all the ingredients’ natural flavors without overpowering them.
How to Make Sheet Pan Caprese Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Sheet Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 425 °F (220 °C). Give your sheet pan a light coating of olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure the crust crisps up perfectly. This prep is key to achieving that lovely, golden base packed with flavor.
Step 2: Shape the Dough
Roll out your pizza dough directly onto the oiled sheet pan. Stretch it with your hands if needed, gently coaxing it to fit the size of the pan. This method keeps things simple and gives you an irresistibly thin, crispy crust that sets this recipe apart.
Step 3: Add Olive Oil and Cheese
Brush the stretched dough lightly with olive oil to help with browning and add subtle richness. Then scatter a generous cup of shredded mozzarella evenly across the surface, ensuring melty goodness in every bite.
Step 4: Arrange Tomato Slices
Place the sliced Roma tomatoes over the mozzarella, spacing them out so they roast nicely without making the crust soggy. These tomatoes burst with sweetness as they bake, perfectly complementing the cheese.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Pop your assembled sheet pan pizza into the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes. The crust should turn a lovely golden brown, and the cheese should be perfectly melted and bubbling. This quick bake time means you’re minutes away from a delicious, homemade meal.
Step 6: Add Fresh Basil and Balsamic Glaze
Once out of the oven, immediately top the pizza with fresh basil leaves. Then drizzle balsamic glaze on top for that classic Caprese finishing touch. The sweet tang of the glaze highlights all the layers of flavor, bringing the pizza together in a perfect bite.
How to Serve Sheet Pan Caprese Pizza Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the fresh basil and balsamic glaze, you can sprinkle some flaky sea salt for a slight crunch or add a few grinds of black pepper to brighten the flavors. Fresh microgreens or a pinch of dried oregano can also make a pretty, tasty addition.
Side Dishes
This pizza pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a light soup like tomato basil. If you want to keep the Italian vibe going, simple garlic bread or roasted vegetables are great complementary options.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the Sheet Pan Caprese Pizza Recipe into squares for a casual party spread or serve it on a rustic wooden board to impress guests. Adding small bowls of extra balsamic glaze or olive oil for dipping can elevate the experience and make it feel special even on a busy weeknight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pizza stays delicious for up to 3 days, though it’s best enjoyed freshly baked to keep the crust crisp and the toppings fresh.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked sheet pan pizza by placing it on a baking sheet until firm, then wrapping tightly in foil or plastic wrap before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. This is perfect for meal prepping or saving a slice for later.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pizza in a 375 °F (190 °C) oven for about 8–10 minutes. This method revives the crisp crust and melty cheese better than a microwave, helping you enjoy the pizza almost as good as fresh.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Gluten-free dough works well and offers a great option for those with dietary restrictions. Just keep an eye on baking times, as gluten-free crusts may cook a bit faster or slower depending on the brand.
Is store-bought pizza dough a good substitute?
Yes, store-bought dough is a convenient option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or texture. It’s perfect for when you want to get dinner on the table fast without compromising on the deliciousness.
Can I add other toppings to the Sheet Pan Caprese Pizza Recipe?
Definitely! While the classic is fantastic on its own, feel free to add prosciutto, a drizzle of pesto, or even some roasted garlic to make it your own. Just remember to keep the balance so the fresh Caprese flavors still shine through.
What kind of balsamic glaze should I use?
Look for a thick, syrupy balsamic glaze that isn’t too sweet or sharp. Many grocery stores carry bottled balsamic glaze that is perfect for drizzling and enhances the pizza with a rich, tangy kick.
Can I make this pizza vegan?
Yes! Simply swap out the mozzarella for your favorite plant-based cheese and use a vegan-friendly dough. The basil, tomato, and balsamic glaze will still bring incredible flavor to the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Sheet Pan Caprese Pizza Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite go-to meals when I want something fresh, flavorful, and effortless to prepare. The harmony of classic Caprese ingredients on a crisp sheet pan crust creates a dish everyone will rave about. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your kitchen too!
Print
Sheet Pan Caprese Pizza Recipe
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Sheet Pan Caprese Pizza is a fresh and easy homemade pizza that combines the classic flavors of a Caprese salad. Featuring a crispy sheet pan crust topped with melted mozzarella, ripe Roma tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of sweet balsamic glaze, this pizza offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes perfect for a quick dinner or casual meal.
Ingredients
Pizza Dough and Crust
- 1 lb pizza dough
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1–2 Roma tomatoes, sliced
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 425 °F (220 °C). Lightly oil a sheet pan to prevent sticking and help create a crispy crust.
- Shape the Dough: Roll out the pizza dough and stretch it to fit the dimensions of the oiled sheet pan evenly.
- Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush the stretched dough surface with olive oil. This adds flavor and aids in browning the crust.
- Add Cheese and Tomatoes: Evenly spread the shredded mozzarella over the dough, then arrange the sliced Roma tomatoes on top. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Bake the Pizza: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Add Fresh Basil and Balsamic Glaze: Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven. Top it with fresh basil leaves and drizzle 2 tablespoons of balsamic glaze over the surface for a tangy, sweet finish.
- Serve: Slice and serve the pizza warm for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- Add prosciutto slices or a swirl of pesto sauce for delicious variations.
- Using store-bought pizza dough can save time and make meal preparation faster.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dinner / Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
