### Cast Iron Skillet Pizza

This cast iron skillet pizza recipe utilizes the excellent heat retention and distribution properties of a cast iron skillet to create a pizza with a perfectly crispy crust and deliciously melted toppings. The skillet's high heat capabilities mimic a traditional pizza oven, making for an amazing homemade pizza.

#### Ingredients:

- Pizza dough (store-bought or homemade, enough for one pizza)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni (or toppings of your choice: vegetables, cooked sausage, mushrooms, etc.)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste

#### Instructions:

1. **Preheat Oven**: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). The high heat is crucial for a crispy crust.

2. **Prepare the Dough**: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to fit the size of your cast iron skillet, about 12 inches in diameter. Let the dough come to room temperature if it was refrigerated, to make it easier to handle.

3. **Prep the Skillet**: Place your cast iron skillet on the stove over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to coat the bottom of the skillet. Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the rolled-out dough into the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the bottom of the dough starts to bubble and brown slightly. This step creates the initial crust.

4. **Add Toppings**: Reduce the stove heat to low. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce, then add the pepperoni slices (or other toppings). Season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

5. **Bake the Pizza**: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the crust is crispy.

6. **Garnish and Serve**: Carefully remove the skillet from the oven (it will be very hot). Let the pizza cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Slice and serve directly from the skillet.

#### Tips:

- For a crispy crust, ensure the skillet is very hot before adding the dough.
- Experiment with different toppings based on your preferences.
- If using a cast iron griddle or Dutch oven lid (if it's flat), you can preheat it in the oven and then carefully place the rolled dough on it, adding toppings afterward, and baking as directed. This method also works well for creating a crispy bottom.