Description
This Homemade Pizza Recipe is your go-to guide for making the perfect pizza from scratch—complete with soft, chewy dough, a rich tomato sauce, and your favorite toppings. Whether you keep it classic or go gourmet, this easy pizza recipe delivers crispy edges, gooey cheese, and bold flavor every time. Great for family dinners, weekend projects, or satisfying any pizza craving at home!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 2¼ teaspoons instant or active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Toppings (choose your favorites):
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Pepperoni slices
- Fresh basil
- Sliced bell peppers
- Mushrooms
- Red onion
- Black olives
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix and knead until a soft dough forms, about 7–8 minutes. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours, until doubled.
- Make the Sauce: In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Preheat the Oven: Set oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven now to preheat.
- Shape the Dough: Punch down risen dough and divide in half. Roll each piece into a 12-inch circle on a floured surface. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza peel.
- Assemble the Pizza: Spread sauce over dough, sprinkle with mozzarella, and layer with desired toppings.
- Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Bread flour creates a chewier crust, but all-purpose flour works great too.
- For white pizza, use garlic olive oil and ricotta instead of tomato sauce.
- Add jalapeños, hot honey, or red pepper flakes for a spicy variation.
- Dough can be made a day ahead and refrigerated overnight.
- A pizza stone or steel yields a crispier bottom but is optional.
