The Scachatta Pizza Recipe, a beloved gem originating from Tampa, is known for its unique combination of Sicilian-inspired thick crust and a hearty meat sauce topping.
This dish stands out as it typically lacks cheese, setting it apart from other pizza varieties.
Perfect for family dinners or a special treat, this recipe offers a step-by-step guide to recreating this distinctive pizza at home, ensuring you can enjoy its robust and comforting flavors anytime.
Dive into the world of Scachatta and discover why this regional specialty has captured the hearts of so many.
Personal Experience
My first encounter with Scachatta Pizza was at a local Tampa festival. The rich aroma and distinctive look instantly caught my attention.
After that first bite, I was hooked by its robust flavors and unique texture, prompting me to learn this recipe and share the joy it brings.
Equipment List
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet or pizza stone
- Saucepan
- Kitchen scale
- Pizza cutter
Ingredients List
- For the Dough:
- 500g all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp instant yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 300ml warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- For the Sauce:
- 500g ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 800g canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings:
- Chopped green olives
- Sliced mushrooms
Scachatta Pizza Recipe – Step by Step Preparation
Step 1:
Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add warm water and olive oil, mixing until the dough forms. Knead on a floured surface until smooth. Let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 2:
Sauce: While the dough rises, heat a saucepan over medium heat. Cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the meat is browned. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes until thickened.
Step 3:
Assemble: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to fit your baking sheet or pizza stone. Spread the meat sauce evenly over the dough, adding olives and mushrooms if desired.
Step 4:
Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the crust is golden and cooked through.
Step 5:
Serve: Let cool slightly, then slice and serve.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the dough is thoroughly kneaded to achieve the perfect crust texture.
- Allow the sauce to simmer properly to develop deeper flavors.
- Use a preheated oven to ensure an evenly baked crust.
- If you prefer a crispy crust, bake directly on a preheated pizza stone.
- Experiment with toppings, although traditional Scachatta is often served without cheese.
Variations
- Vegan Version: Substitute ground beef with crumbled tofu or a vegan meat alternative.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the sauce.
- Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle mozzarella or provolone over the top before baking.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for the dough.
- Seafood Twist: Replace ground beef with a mix of shrimp and crabmeat.
Conclusion
This Scachatta Pizza Recipe is a delightful twist on traditional pizza, perfect for those who appreciate a hearty, flavorful meal.
Experiment with the variations mentioned, and don’t hesitate to put your personal spin on this Tampa classic.
Enjoy crafting this delicious dish that promises to be a hit at any table!
FAQs
How can I store leftover Scachatta Pizza?
Leftover Scachatta Pizza can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm. For longer storage, you can freeze the pizza for up to 2 months.
What is the best way to serve Scachatta Pizza?
Scachatta Pizza is best served warm, cut into squares or rectangles. It’s perfect as a main course and can be paired with a side salad or appetizers for a complete meal.
Is Scachatta Pizza suitable for a large gathering?
Yes, Scachatta Pizza is an excellent choice for large gatherings as it can be made in large quantities and cut into manageable pieces, making it easy to serve and share.
What are some common variations of Scachatta Pizza?
Variations of Scachatta Pizza might include adding different toppings like olives or mushrooms, making a vegan version using plant-based meat substitutes, or adding spices for a spicier sauce.
Some people also experiment with gluten-free dough or adding seafood like shrimp or crabmeat.
Scachatta Pizza Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling Pin
- Baking sheet or pizza stone
- Saucepan
- Kitchen scale
- Pizza Cutter
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 500 g all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp instant yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 300 ml warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 500 g ground beef
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 800 g canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings:
- Chopped green olives
- Sliced mushrooms
Instructions
- Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add warm water and olive oil, mixing until the dough forms. Knead on a floured surface until smooth. Let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Sauce: While the dough rises, heat a saucepan over medium heat. Cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the meat is browned. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes until thickened.
- Assemble: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to fit your baking sheet or pizza stone. Spread the meat sauce evenly over the dough, adding olives and mushrooms if desired.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the crust is golden and cooked through.
- Serve: Let cool slightly, then slice and serve.
Notes
- Ensure the dough is thoroughly kneaded to achieve the perfect crust texture.
- Allow the sauce to simmer properly to develop deeper flavors.
- Use a preheated oven to ensure an evenly baked crust.
- If you prefer a crispy crust, bake directly on a preheated pizza stone.
- Experiment with toppings, although traditional Scachatta is often served without cheese.
