If you grew up loving those thick, cheesy slices of rectangle pizza served on lunch trays, this recipe is going to take you straight back in time. That iconic school-style pizza had a soft yet sturdy crust, a simple herby tomato sauce, savory meat, and a generous layer of melted cheese that browned just enough around the edges. The beauty of this recipe is not only its nostalgic flavor, but also how approachable and customizable it is. With a few pantry staples and a sheet pan, you can recreate that comforting classic right at home.
This version stays true to the old-school style while giving you the flexibility to tweak toppings and seasonings to suit your taste. It’s perfect for family dinners, game nights, or anytime you’re craving something familiar, filling, and satisfying.
Ingredients :
For the Crust
- 2⅔ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup powdered milk
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 packet quick-rise yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1⅔ cups warm water (105–110°F / 40–43°C)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Meat Topping
- ½ pound ground chuck
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Cheese
- 8-ounce block mozzarella cheese, freshly grated
(For the most authentic cafeteria-style texture, imitation mozzarella shreds can be used.)
For the Sauce
(Best prepared a day ahead to let flavors develop)
- 6-ounce can tomato paste
- 1 cup water
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ tablespoon dried oregano
- ½ tablespoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
How to Make Old-School Rectangle Pizza
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Lightly spray a half sheet pan with cooking spray, then line it with parchment paper. Spraying first helps the parchment stay in place while spreading the dough.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered milk, sugar, yeast, and salt. Whisk until evenly blended.
In a separate container, stir the vegetable oil into the warm water. Slowly pour the liquid mixture into the dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon, stir until a thick batter-like dough forms. Don’t worry if it looks lumpy—just make sure there are no dry spots.
Spread the dough directly into the prepared pan using your fingertips. If the dough resists, let it rest for about 5 minutes, then continue pressing it evenly to the edges.
Step 3: Par-Bake the Crust
Place the pan in the oven and bake the crust alone for 8–10 minutes, just until it sets but does not brown. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Meat
While the crust bakes, brown the ground chuck in a skillet over medium heat. Season with salt and pepper and cook until crumbly and fully done. Drain excess fat and set aside.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
In a bowl, combine tomato paste, water, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and crushed rosemary. Mix until smooth. For best flavor, cover and refrigerate overnight, but it can also be used immediately if needed.
Step 6: Assemble the Pizza
Spread an even layer of sauce over the partially baked crust. Sprinkle the cooked meat evenly across the surface, then top generously with grated mozzarella cheese.
Step 7: Bake
Return the pizza to the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and just beginning to brown in spots.
Remove from the oven and let the pizza rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps everything set and makes cutting easier.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
- Add sliced pepperoni or sausage for extra flavor
- Mix in a blend of mozzarella and mild cheddar
- Serve with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables
- Cut into classic rectangular slices for the full nostalgic experience
Conclusion :
This old-school rectangle pizza is more than just a meal—it’s a warm reminder of simpler times and comforting flavors we grew up loving. With its soft, hearty crust, rich tomato sauce, savory meat, and perfectly melted cheese, it delivers that familiar cafeteria-style taste in every bite. What makes this recipe especially great is its flexibility; you can keep it classic or customize it endlessly to match your preferences.
Whether you’re making it for your family, sharing it with friends, or simply indulging in a little nostalgia, this homemade version proves that sometimes the best recipes are the ones that bring back memories. Once you try it, this rectangle pizza is bound to become a repeat favorite in your kitchen—simple, satisfying, and undeniably delicious.
