If you have ever wondered what is pan pizza and why it tastes richer than regular pizza, this guide explains everything. From crust texture to baking methods, pan pizza delivers a thick, golden base with crisp edges and soft layers inside. Here you will learn what’s a pan pizza, how to make it at home, calorie details, and the best techniques used by professional kitchens.
At Curry Pizza House, pan pizzas blend bold flavors with handcrafted dough for unforgettable comfort food.
Key Characteristics of Pan Pizza
Understanding what is pan pizza starts with its defining features. Pan pizza is baked in a deep, oiled pan that shapes the crust and locks in moisture.
Crust
The crust is thick, airy, and crisp on the outside. Oil fries the edges lightly, creating a golden finish.
Pan
A heavy steel or cast-iron pan conducts heat evenly. This gives pan pizza its signature crunch and color.
Dough
The dough contains more hydration and oil than thin crust. This makes it soft inside and fluffy.
Layering
Sauce and cheese sit close to the edges. Toppings stay juicy and balanced during baking.
Examples of Pan Pizza Styles
Different regions interpret what’s a pan pizza in their own way.
Pizza Hut Original Pan
The classic American pan pizza with buttery crust and generous cheese.
Detroit-Style Pizza
Square, thick crust with caramelized cheese edges and sauce stripes on top.
Sicilian Pizza
Rectangular, airy crust with olive oil flavor and simple toppings.
These styles show how handmade pan pizza can vary while keeping its core texture.
How Pan Pizza Differs From Other Pizzas
Pan Pizza vs Thin Crust
Thin crust bakes fast and stays crisp. Pan pizza stays soft inside with crunchy edges.
Pan Pizza vs Chicago Deep Dish
Chicago deep dish uses very thick dough and heavy layering. Pan pizza is lighter, less dense, and quicker to bake.
This difference explains why many people prefer handmade pan pizza for balance and comfort.
Recipe for Deep Pan Pizza
This recipe for deep pan pizza creates a fluffy base with rich flavor.
The Dough Ingredients
- Bread flour
- Warm water
- Instant yeast
- Honey or sugar
- Salt
- Olive oil
The Toppings
- Mozzarella
- Pizza sauce
Instructions: Recipe of Pan Pizza Step by Step
Make the Dough
Mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it bloom for 5 minutes. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Stir until soft dough forms.
The Knead & Rise
Knead gently for 5 minutes. Place in an oiled bowl. Cover and rise until doubled.
The Secret
Cold ferment overnight for deeper flavor. This improves texture in any pan pizza recipe dough.
Shape the Pan
Oil the pan generously. Press dough outward with fingertips.
Layer It Up
Add sauce, mozzarella, and toppings evenly.
Pro Tip
Push cheese to the edges. This creates crispy caramelized borders.
Bake
Bake at 220°C (425°F) for 15 to 20 minutes.
Why the Oil Matters in Pan Pizza
Oil prevents sticking and fries the crust edges. It adds flavor and crispness. Without oil, easy pan pizza dough recipe loses its signature texture.
How to Make Handmade Pan Pizza
Many people ask what’s handmade pan pizza and how it differs from factory dough. Handmade pan pizza uses fresh dough shaped by hand and proofed slowly.
Oil the Pan
Coat pan generously with olive oil.
Shape the Dough
Stretch gently. Do not roll flat. Let gravity form thickness.
Layer Toppings
Start with sauce, then cheese, then proteins and vegetables.
Bake Hot
High heat locks moisture and crisps the base.
This method defines true handmade pan pizza texture and flavor.
How to Make Pan Pizza at Home
If you want to learn how to make pan pizza, follow this simple method.
Ingredients (For Two 10–12 Inch Pizzas)
Dough
- Bread flour
- Water
- Instant yeast
- Kosher salt
- Olive oil
Toppings
- Pizza sauce
- Mozzarella cheese
- Optional vegetables or meats
Directions: Easy Pan Pizza Dough Recipe
Mix and Cold Ferment (Optional but Recommended)
Mix all dough ingredients. Rest in fridge overnight for better flavor.
Pan Proofing
Oil pans. Place dough inside and rest for 1 hour.
Stretch and Rise
Stretch gently and let rise until puffy.
Preheat and Assemble
Heat oven to 220°C. Add sauce and cheese.
Bake
Bake 15 to 18 minutes until golden.
Finish
Cool briefly. Slice and serve.
This completes a full recipe of pan pizza that works for beginners and professionals.
Key Tips for Success
Cheese Edge
Always press cheese to pan edges for crunch.
Pan Choice
Heavy steel or cast iron works best.
Don’t Skimp on Oil
Oil is essential for crisp crust and release.
Remove Immediately
Lift pizza after baking to avoid soggy bottoms.
How Many Calories in a Personal Pan Pizza
Many ask how many calories in a personal pan pizza before ordering. Values vary by topping and crust.
- Cheese: ~590 calories
- Pepperoni: ~620 calories
- Italian sausage: ~684 calories
- Supreme: ~710 calories
- Meat lover’s: ~830 calories
Deep pan pizza calories are higher because of oil and thick crust. Portion control helps balance meals.
Explore Pan Pizza at Curry Pizza House
Discover handcrafted flavors at Curry Pizza House. Browse our full menu for signature pan pizzas or find your nearest kitchen through our locations page.
Our chefs prepare each pan pizza fresh, combining bold spices with classic techniques.
Final Thoughts
Now you know what is pan pizza, how to bake it, and why it stands apart from other styles. From easy pan pizza dough recipe to calorie guides and baking secrets, pan pizza offers comfort, flavor, and texture in every bite. With the right pan, oil, and patience, you can enjoy restaurant-quality results at home.
FAQs
What is the difference between pan pizza and regular pizza?
Pan pizza bakes in oil, giving thicker crust and crisp edges. Regular pizza uses flatter dough and less oil.
Which is best, hand tossed or pan pizza?
Hand tossed is lighter. Pan pizza is richer and softer. Choice depends on texture preference.
What is a pan style pizza?
A pan style pizza is baked in a deep pan with oiled crust and thicker dough.
Why is pan pizza so good?
Oil-fried edges, soft crumb, and rich cheese make pan pizza comforting and flavorful.
How long do I cook a deep pan pizza for?
Bake 15 to 20 minutes at 220°C until crust is golden and cheese bubbles.
What flour for deep pan pizza?
Bread flour works best. It builds structure and chew in pan pizza recipe dough.
What order do you add toppings to deep dish pizza?
Start with cheese, then meats, then vegetables, and finish with sauce on top for protection.
How is handmade pan pizza?
Handmade pan pizza uses fresh dough shaped by hand, slow proofing, and generous oil for natural texture.
