Homemade Pizza
A delicious and customizable homemade pizza recipe featuring a crispy crust, rich sauce, and gooey cheese, perfect for family nights and gatherings.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast This tiny powerhouse will transform your dough into a fluffy delight.
- 1 1/2 cups warm water Essential for activating the yeast, setting the stage for that perfect dough texture.
- 3 1/2 – 4 cups all-purpose flour Provides the structural base for your crispy yet chewy crust.
- 2 tbsp olive oil Adds richness and a hint of fruitiness, elevating your pizza’s flavor profile.
- 1 1/2 tsp salt Enhances every bite, balancing the flavors beautifully.
- 1 tsp sugar Helps activate the yeast and balances the dough's flavors.
Pizza Toppings
- 1 cup pizza sauce The heart of the pizza, delivering a burst of tangy, aromatic goodness.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Gooey, melty, and undeniably delicious—truly the star of any pizza.
- favorite toppings (pepperoni, bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, olives, etc.) Ignite your creativity with a vibrant array of flavors and textures.
- fresh basil or oregano (optional, for garnish) A fragrant finishing touch that adds a pop of color and additional flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy, activating the yeast.
- Add flour, olive oil, and salt to the yeast mixture. Knead the dough until smooth, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1 hour until it doubles in size.
Cooking
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to get it hot.
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it in half. Roll each portion into a 12-inch circle on a floured surface.
- Place the rolled-out dough on parchment paper. Spread a layer of pizza sauce, sprinkle mozzarella generously, and add your desired toppings.
- Carefully transfer the pizza (on parchment) onto the hot stone or baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil or oregano if desired. Slice and enjoy your homemade pizza!
Notes
For best results, let your dough rise in a warm, draft-free area. You can also experiment with different cheeses or add garlic powder for extra flavor.