Mimi’s Pan Pizza Dough, Two Ways (The Mimi & The Papa) Recipe on Food52 (2024)

Pizza is one of my mother’s specialties in the kitchen. The style she makes is somewhere between a classic “Grandma style” pizza, and a typical pan-style pizza. Its crust is neither thin or thick—it's somewhere in between, with crisp edges and a fluffy interior. Since the dough can be made ahead (see step 2), and it’s baked on a sheet tray, it’s as weeknight friendly as it is weekend worthy.

My mom is known as “Mimi” to my brothers’ children, so in honor of Grandma pies everywhere, I proudly present a recipe passed down to me that can only be called “Mimi’s Pizza.” I asked my mom to share her favorite pizza toppings (below as “The Mimi”) but she was concerned her preferred flavors could be polarizing (though everyone who’s tasted it finds it delicious). But in case you’re looking for more classic toppings, try the one inspired by my dad, known to the kids in the family as “Papa." —Erin Jeanne McDowell

Directions

1. Mimi's Pizza Dough
2. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment, mix all ingredients to form a soft, smooth dough, 3 to 4 minutes.
3. Transfer the dough to a large bowl or dough storage container that’s double the dough’s size. Let rise in the refrigerator overnight (though in a pinch you can also make it and let it rise for 1 hour at room temperature and then go!).
4. When you're ready to bake, preheat the oven to 425°F. Drizzle olive oil over a baking sheet so it’s well coated. Add the dough to the baking sheet and turn over so both sides are lightly coated with oil. Use your fingers to stipple the dough to stretch it out to about ½-inch thick, filling most of the baking sheet.
5. Let the dough rest for 10 minutes, then stipple again to stretch a bit more. Top with sauce, toppings, and cheese as desired.
6. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the crust is deeply golden brown and the cheese is melted and browned in some spots, too.

1. The Mimi & The Papa Toppings
2. For The Mimi

   In a small pot over medium heat, heat the olive oil with the smashed garlic cloves Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from the heat and let cool completely.

   Once the dough is stippled in the pan, drizzle half of the cooled garlic oil over its surface.

   Layer the potatoes, olives, and oregano over the surface of the pizza. Drizzle the remaining garlic oil over the surface.

   Top with the fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and feta.

   Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the crust is deeply golden brown and the cheese is melted and browned in some spots, too.

3. For The Papa

   Once the dough is stippled in the pan, spread the tomato sauce evenly over the surface of the dough.

   Layer the sausage, marinated mushrooms, and onion slices on top of the sauce.

   Top with the fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and Pamesan.

   Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the crust is deeply golden brown and the cheese is melted and browned in some spots, too.

Recipe by: Erin Jeanne McDowell