How to Bake Pizza in a Cast Iron Skillet

1. Prepare the Cast Iron Skillet: Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for at least 5 minutes. Rub a thin layer of oil on the bottom and sides of the skillet to grease it.

2. Make or Use Prepared Dough: If making dough, let it rest for at least 30 minutes before shaping. If using store-bought dough, let it come to room temperature for 30 minutes.

3. Shape the Dough: Roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle. You can also stretch it with your hands.

4. Toppings: Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce or tomato paste on the dough, leaving a small border. Arrange your desired toppings on top, including cheese, vegetables, and meat.

5. Preheat Oven: While the skillet is preheating, place a rack in the lower third of your oven and preheat it to 500°F (260°C).

6. Cook the Pizza: Carefully transfer the pizza and skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the pizza for 8-12 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and slightly browned.

7. Remove from Oven: Use oven mitts to remove the skillet from the oven. Be cautious as the handle will be hot.

8. Slice and Serve: Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing it with a pizza cutter or sharp knife. Serve immediately.

Tips:

- Cast iron skillets retain heat well, so the pizza will continue cooking after you remove it from the oven. Allow it to cool down slightly before slicing and serving.

- If your toppings tend to release a lot of moisture, such as fresh mushrooms, cook the pizza for a few minutes before adding them to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.

- Consider using smaller, pre-cooked toppings to ensure they're thoroughly heated by the time the pizza is done baking.

-Experiment with different dough recipes, toppings, and cheeses to create your favorite pizza combinations.