How can you tell if a pan pizza is cooked properly?

To determine if a pan pizza is cooked properly, one of the best indicators is the appearance and texture of the dough. When the dough is yellow and the ridges do not smear, it signifies that the pizza base has been baked thoroughly and developed the right texture. A properly cooked pan pizza should have a crust that is crispy and has a golden hue, indicating that it has been cooked long enough for the outer layer to firm up without being overcooked.

While other factors like the top being golden brown and the cheese being bubbly can also suggest that the pizza is done, they do not specifically address the quality and readiness of the base crust, which is critical for a pan-style pizza. A white dough might imply that the pizza is undercooked, which can lead to an undesirable texture. Therefore, the specific condition of the dough, especially the presence of a firm yellow color with proper texture, is a clear indicator of a well-cooked pan pizza.