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Grandma-Style Pizza

This authentic Grandma-style pizza is a rustic, high-protein alternative to the standard takeaway. Characterised by its distinctive square shape and thin, crisp crust, this traybake pizza offers a wonderful depth of flavour. The secret lies in the unconventional assembly, where the mozzarella is placed directly onto the dough before being dotted with a rich, garlicky tomato sauce. This technique ensures the base remains perfectly crisp while the cheese melts beautifully into the crumb.

A brilliant option for a casual family dinner or weekend gathering, this homemade pizza is simple to master and highly versatile. Using fresh garlic, anchovies for a savoury umami kick, and plenty of fresh basil, it delivers a sophisticated Mediterranean taste. Serve it alongside a fresh rocket salad for a balanced, protein-rich meal that everyone will enjoy.

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Ingredients for Grandma-Style Pizza

  • One 800g can whole peeled tomatoes

  • 2 anchovies

  • 2 garlic cloves

  • 6 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1/4 cup basil leaves

  • Salt

  • Pepper

  • 350g fresh mozzarella, grated

  • Grandma-Style Pizza Dough

Drain one 800g can whole peeled tomatoes and pulse tomatoes with 2 anchovies, 2 garlic cloves, 6 tablespoons olive oil, and 1/4 cup basil leaves in a food processor or blender until mostly smooth (some texture is okay); season with salt and pepper.

A classic Grandma-just sauce and mozzarella-flips the usual script: Add cheese before sauce. Master this basic pie and you're ready to improvise (see below for ideas).

Place a rack in lower third of oven and preheat to 525° or as high as oven will go.

Once Grandma-Style Pizza Dough has risen on baking sheet, top with 350g fresh mozzarella, grated, and dot pie with 350ml Fresh Tomato Pizza Sauce. Bake pie until golden brown and crisp on bottom and sides, 20-30 minutes.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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