The Classic School Pizza Recipe — A Nostalgic Cafeteria Favorite

If you ever found yourself looking forward to pizza day in the school cafeteria, this School Pizza Recipe will take you straight back to those simpler times. With its fluffy, soft crust, savory beef-tomato topping, and perfectly melted cheese, this homemade version recreates that unmistakable rectangle slice we all loved growing up.

Created by deesviral, this recipe combines easy pantry ingredients with a simple technique that captures the same comforting, nostalgic flavor — right from your own kitchen.

🧑‍🍳 Recipe Details

Author: deesviral
Cuisine: American
Category: Dinner / Main Course
Keywords: School Pizza, Rectangle Pizza, Classic Cafeteria Pizza, Homemade Lunch Pizza, deesviral
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes (plus rise time)
Yield: 12 slices

🍞 Ingredients

For the Dough

2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
1 cup warm water (110°F)
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or olive oil)
2½ cups all-purpose flour

For the Topping

1 pound ground beef
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for that classic school-lunch blend)

🔪 Instructions

Activate the Yeast:
In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy — this shows your yeast is alive and ready to work.
Make the Dough:
Stir in salt, oil, and flour. Mix until a soft dough forms. Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 5–6 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
Let It Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Pan:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a large sheet pan or rectangular baking tray. Roll or press the dough evenly into the pan — just like those cafeteria pizzas.
Cook the Meat Sauce:
In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and tomato sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes to thicken and develop flavor.
Assemble the Pizza:
Spread the beefy tomato sauce evenly over the dough. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese (and cheddar, if using) generously on top.
Bake to Perfection:
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Slice & Serve:
Let it cool slightly, then slice into those classic rectangular pieces. Serve warm for the ultimate school lunch throwback.

🏫 Troubleshooting & Consistency Tips

Dough not rising? Check that your yeast is fresh and that your water isn’t too hot — 110°F is ideal.
Crust too thick? Try pressing the dough thinner or use a slightly larger pan next time.
Pizza too dry? Don’t overbake. Check for doneness at the 18-minute mark.

🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Freezer: Wrap individual slices in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in a 350°F oven until warm.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature before baking.

❤️ Why This Recipe Works

This classic cafeteria-style pizza is all about comfort and simplicity. The soft, bread-like crust pairs perfectly with the rich beef sauce and gooey cheese — just like the slices you’d get on school lunch trays.

By keeping the ingredients simple and the process straightforward, deesviral’s School Pizza Recipe delivers that nostalgic flavor with a homemade touch. It’s the perfect recipe for family dinners, casual parties, or a fun weekend cooking project.

So go ahead — grab your baking sheet, channel your inner lunch lady, and bring a taste of school days nostalgia back to your kitchen.