Irresistible traybaked pesto pizza pie for easy sharing

Oh, let me share this recipe that’s become one of my absolute favorites—this irresistible traybaked pesto pizza pie! It’s the kind of dish you just want to gather around with friends and start digging in, you know? Picture it: a crispy, golden crust blanketed with vibrant green pesto that’s bursting with flavor, topped with melty cheese and whatever goodies you want to throw on there. It’s super casual, perfect for sharing, and always makes me a hero at any gathering! Really, once you’ve had a slice, you’ll be dreaming about it for days… trust me!

Why You’ll Crave It

• It’s hearty yet light—like, you can eat a piece (or two) without feeling weighed down.
• Perfect for gatherings—everyone can just grab and go, no fancy plates needed!
• Customizable like crazy! Love mushrooms? Toss them on! Got leftover veggies? Perfect.
• The pesto gives it this fresh kick that balances out the cheesiness so well. Yum.

My family fights over the last piece every time—like, it gets a little competitive!

What You’ll Need

• Pizza Dough: 500g strong white bread flour, because it gives a nice chew
• Sea Salt: 1 tsp—just the right amount to enhance the flavors, you know?
• Dried Yeast: 7g, helps it rise perfectly
• Water: 300ml, warm, to bring it all together
• Olive Oil: 4 tbsp, for that lovely, rich flavor
• Pesto Sauce: 100g fresh basil pesto, homemade or store-bought; whatever you prefer!
• Cheese: 200g mozzarella cheese, grated—who doesn’t love cheese?
• Toppings: 150g cherry tomatoes, halved and 100g drained artichokes, quartered – yum!
• Fresh Basil Leaves: for that final touch, totally necessary!

Easy How-To

Making the Dough

Alright, let’s dive in! First, in a big bowl, you mix the flour, yeast, and salt. It’s really easy, just make sure it’s all combined well. Then, gradually add the warm water—slowly, so you don’t end up with a sticky mess. stir it till you see it turning into dough. And then, you know, you’ll be kneading it. I usually just throw it out on a floured surface and go at it for… well, a good 10 minutes until it feels smooth and kind of bouncy, you know?

Good to Know

• The dough should feel soft but not super sticky; if it’s clinging to your hands too much, just add a tad more flour!
• Don’t hesitate to experiment with fillings to keep it interesting—a little creativity goes a long way!
• If you make too much, wrap any leftovers in foil and store in the fridge; they’re great for a next-day snack.

Serving Ideas

• Slice it up and serve with a side of fresh salad—it’s a lovely contrast!

Top Tricks

• If you want your crust extra crispy, try pre-baking it for 5 minutes before you add the toppings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought dough?

Oh, totally! Store-bought dough is a lifesaver when you’re short on time—it’s just as good when you’re in a pinch.

What type of cheese is best for pizza?

A mix of mozzarella and maybe a sprinkle of parmesan is usually a winner. It gives that gooey stretch with a little flavor punch!

How do I prevent my pizza from getting soggy?

You need to make sure to pre-bake the crust just a tiny bit, and keep those moist toppings in check—nobody wants soggy pizza, right?

What toppings can I use for my pizza?

Honestly, the sky’s the limit! Throw on your favorites—veggies, meats, herbs, or even leftover roast chicken… just be creative!

Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, definitely! Just wrap it up and pop it in the fridge; it’ll get even better as it chills.

Conclusion

Oh man, this traybaked pesto pizza pie is just delightful! Seriously, it’s so versatile and perfect for any occasion where you just want to enjoy some good food among friends. Plus, you get to be creative with toppings—it’s like a blank canvas waiting for your personal touch. I hope you give it a go—you won’t regret it!

More Recipe Suggestions and Combinations

• Caprese Flatbreads: A fresh, quick twist using mozzarella, tomatoes, basil and a drizzle of balsamic.
• Mediterranean Vegetable Pizza: A flavorful topping of roasted peppers, olives, artichokes, and feta.
• BBQ Chicken Pizza: BBQ sauce, shredded chicken, and a sprinkle of red onion, yum!
• Spinach and Feta Pesto Sun-Dried Tomato Pizza: Oh, so good! It’s all savory goodness.
• Meat Lover’s Supreme: If you’re into meat, layer it up with your faves for a hearty meal.
• Veggie Delight: Go all out with colorful veggies—think zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers.
• Sweet Potato and Kale Pizza: Swap in sweet potatoes for a healthy alternative—really tasty, trust me.