Jamie Oliver Frying Pan Pizza Recipe [GUIDE]

Jamie Oliver’s Frying Pan Pizza is a creative, quick way to make pizza without using an oven. Instead of the traditional method, where dough is baked in an oven, Jamie uses a frying pan to create a crispy, delicious pizza in under 20 minutes. The idea is simple-bring the flavors of pizza straight to your stovetop, making it perfect for a lazy weeknight or when you just don’t have an oven handy.

The beauty of this pizza lies in its flexibility. You can use store-bought dough or make your own and top it with whatever ingredients you love, from classic margherita to something a little more adventurous. The pan method gives the crust a wonderful crispness that’s often harder to achieve in a conventional oven unless you’re using a pizza stone. It’s also faster which is always a win!

Jamie Oliver Frying Pan Pizza Recipe

Ingredients Needed

Here’s a basic rundown of what you’ll need to create Jamie Oliver’s Frying Pan Pizza:

• Pizza Dough: You can either buy pre-made dough or make your own. If you’re using store-bought, look for a soft, flexible dough for easy stretching.
• Tomato Sauce: Opt for a rich, well-seasoned tomato sauce. Jamie often suggests a simple one made with chopped tomatoes, garlic and a few herbs.
• Cheese: A good mozzarella works best. You can also add a little grated Parmesan or pecorino for a more intense flavor.
• Toppings: This is where you get to play around. Classic toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, olives and fresh basil are great but you can get as creative as you like.
• Olive Oil: You’ll use this to coat the pan and ensure the pizza doesn’t stick, plus it adds a lovely crispness to the crust.
• Seasoning: A pinch of sea salt and cracked black pepper will bring the flavors together. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano really elevate the pizza, too.

Equipment Needed

For this recipe, you won’t need anything fancy. just a few essentials:

• Frying Pan: The most crucial piece of equipment. You’ll need a large, non-stick frying pan (preferably around 10-12 inches in diameter). If it’s cast iron, that’s even better because it helps achieve a crispier crust.
• Rolling Pin: To stretch out the dough evenly.
• Lid: This is optional but it helps trap the heat and melt the cheese faster while keeping the pizza’s top from drying out.
• Spatula or Tongs: For flipping and moving the pizza around without making a mess.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Frying Pan Pizza

1. Prepare the Dough: If you’re using store-bought dough, just stretch it out on a floured surface. Aim for about 1/4 inch thickness for a crispy, light crust. If making your own, follow the recipe instructions until the dough is ready.
2. Heat the Pan: Place your frying pan on medium heat and add a little olive oil to coat the base. Let it warm up for a minute.
3. Cook the Dough: Place your dough in the pan and cook it for about 2-3 minutes on one side. You’ll start to see bubbles form on the top. Once the bottom is golden brown, flip the dough carefully using a spatula.
4. Add Toppings: Quickly spread your tomato sauce over the cooked side, leaving a small border for the crust. Sprinkle the cheese generously and add your toppings. Cover the pan with a lid to help the cheese melt.
5. Finish Cooking: After about 5-7 minutes, check the bottom of the crust. If it’s golden and crispy, your pizza is done! If you like a slightly softer crust, reduce the heat and cook a little longer but keep an eye on the bottom to avoid burning.
6. Serve: Once cooked to your liking, slide the pizza out of the pan, slice it up and enjoy!

What I Learnt

Making Jamie Oliver’s Frying Pan Pizza was a revelation! First of all, the speed is unbeatable-within 20 minutes, you have a piping-hot, crispy pizza ready to devour. The pan method also allows for a wonderfully crisp bottom while keeping the top soft and cheesy. I found that the key is to get the pan really hot, so the dough cooks fast and doesn’t get soggy.

Another lesson was the importance of not overcrowding the pizza with too many toppings. Simple, high-quality ingredients shine here and I think that’s what really makes this dish work. The balance between crispy crust and melted cheese was perfect and it’s actually a fun cooking experience. You’re constantly checking, flipping and tweaking which made it feel a bit like pizza-making in real-time rather than just following a recipe.

Recipe Tweaks For Jamie Oliver’s Frying Pan Pizza

Jamie Oliver’s frying pan pizza is a game-changer. It’s fast, fresh and the perfect answer to a pizza craving when you don’t want to deal with a complicated oven setup. Even the best recipes can be tweaked to match personal tastes. Here are a few ways you can give Jamie’s recipe your own twist:

1. Dough Variations

   • Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free: If you’re after a healthier version, swap out the regular flour for whole wheat flour. It gives the crust a bit more texture and a deeper flavor. For a gluten-free option, try using a gluten-free flour blend. You’ll need to adjust the water slightly as gluten-free flours tend to absorb moisture differently.
   • Herb-Infused Dough: To elevate the dough, you could add a little garlic powder, dried oregano or rosemary to the flour before mixing it. This infuses the base with subtle herby flavors that complement the toppings.

2. Sauce Swap

   • Tomato Base with a Twist: Jamie’s pizza sauce is simple but perfect. However, you can spice it up by adding chili flakes or smoked paprika for a smoky heat. If you want something creamier, try swapping half the tomato sauce for mascarpone or ricotta, giving the pizza a rich, cheesy base.
   • Pesto or White Sauce: For something out of the ordinary, use pesto instead of the traditional tomato sauce. It pairs wonderfully with fresh vegetables or grilled chicken. A white sauce (made with butter, garlic and cream) can also be a great base, especially if you’re topping it with mushrooms or spinach.

3. Toppings Galore

   • More Vegetables: Try adding a variety of fresh veggies like arugula, spinach or roasted bell peppers after the pizza’s cooked. This gives you that beautiful contrast of warm crust with fresh, crisp greens.
   • Different Cheeses: While mozzarella is a classic, why not experiment with goat cheese, blue cheese or even feta for a bit of tang? You could also mix in a bit of parmesan to add a sharp edge to your pizza.
   • Meat Options: Want a heartier pizza? Add some prosciutto, spicy sausage or even grilled chicken. These meats work really well with the crispy crust and the simple toppings.
4. Crust Options: If you love that crispy, slightly charred texture on the edge, try brushing the crust with a mix of olive oil and garlic before you start cooking. You can even sprinkle it with some sea salt or parmesan for extra flavor.

Storage Tips For Leftovers

Let’s face it, frying pan pizza is so delicious, you might have a slice (or a few) left over. If you do, here’s how to store it without sacrificing that crispy goodness:

1. Cooling First: Before storing leftovers, make sure the pizza cools to room temperature. This prevents condensation which can make the crust soggy.
2. Wrapping: Wrap each slice tightly in parchment paper, then place the wrapped slices in an airtight container or a resealable bag. This keeps them fresh without losing the texture too much. You can also wrap the pizza in foil but parchment paper is ideal because it helps preserve the crispiness.
3. Freezing for Later: If you’re not eating the leftovers within a day or two, freezing them is a great option. Place the wrapped slices on a baking sheet in a single layer before freezing, so they don’t stick together. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, you can reheat in a hot pan or the oven.
4. Reheating: To bring back that crispy crust, don’t just microwave it. The best way to reheat leftover pizza is by placing it back in a frying pan (medium heat) with a lid on. This steams the toppings and crisps the bottom. If you have a pizza stone, even better! Throw it in the oven to reheat the pizza and it’ll taste almost like it’s freshly made.

What To Eat With Jamie Oliver’s Frying Pan Pizza?

Frying pan pizza is awesome on its own but if you want to turn it into a complete meal, pair it with some tasty sides:

1. Salads

   • Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, arugula and a balsamic vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the pizza. The acidity in the dressing cuts through the cheesy goodness.
   • Caprese Salad: If you’re a fan of Italian flavors, a Caprese salad (tomatoes, mozzarella, basil and olive oil) works perfectly. The freshness of the tomatoes and basil complements the pizza without overwhelming it.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Think of roasted zucchini, mushrooms or cherry tomatoes. These add depth and texture to the meal. The charred flavors of roasted veggies pair beautifully with the crispy crust of the pizza.
3. Garlic Bread or Breadsticks: If you want to indulge, garlic bread is always a hit. You can make it in the same pan right after cooking the pizza, using any leftover dough or store-bought bread. Just brush it with butter, garlic and a sprinkle of parsley, then cook it for a few minutes.

4. Drinks

   • Wine: A nice glass of red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese pairs beautifully with the pizza. If you prefer white, a crisp Pinot Grigio works great.
   • Beer: If you’re going the casual route, a cold lager or IPA is the perfect pizza companion.
   • Non-Alcoholic: For a lighter option, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or a fresh iced tea can also be refreshing.

FAQs

How Long Does It Take To Make Jamie Oliver’s Frying Pan Pizza?

It usually takes around 15-20 minutes to make the pizza, depending on how quick you are with prep!

Can I Use A Store-bought Dough For Jamie Oliver’s Frying Pan Pizza?

Yes, you can! But if you have the time, homemade dough adds a nice touch.

What Toppings Are Best For This Frying Pan Pizza Recipe?

You can top it with anything you like, but classics like mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil work great!