Here’s a classic school cafeteria-style pizza recipe, just like you might remember from lunch trays back in the day — thick, soft crust, slightly sweet sauce, and melty cheese.
🍕 Old-School Cafeteria Pizza Recipe
Ingredients
For the Dough:
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2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
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1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F)
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1 tbsp sugar
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1 tsp salt
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2 tbsp vegetable oil (or melted shortening)
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3 to 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
For the Sauce:
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1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
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1 tsp sugar
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1/2 tsp dried basil
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Salt & pepper to taste
Toppings:
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2–3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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Optional: pepperoni, sausage, diced peppers, onions
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
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In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
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Add salt, oil, and 2 1/2 cups flour. Mix to form a dough.
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Gradually add more flour until dough is soft but not sticky.
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Knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes.
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Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour (until doubled in size).
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
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In a saucepan over medium heat, combine all sauce ingredients.
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Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Pizza
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Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C).
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Grease a sheet pan (around 13×18 inches) or line with parchment.
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Roll or press the dough into the pan to cover it evenly.
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Spread sauce over dough.
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Top generously with cheese and any toppings.
Step 4: Bake
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Bake for 12–15 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and crust is golden.
✅ Tips for Authentic Cafeteria Flavor
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Use American cheese slices under the mozzarella for a nostalgic flavor.
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Bake in a rimmed sheet pan for that classic square slice look.
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Let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing into rectangles or squares.
Let me know if you want a version that’s scaled up for a crowd or uses specific school nutrition guidelines.