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Homemade Pizza

Homemade Pizza

This Homemade Pizza recipe guides you through creating a delicious, crispy crust topped with fresh tomato sauce, melty mozzarella cheese, and customizable toppings. Perfect for all skill levels, it combines simple, fresh ingredients and easy techniques for a restaurant-quality pizza experience made in your kitchen.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Yield: 1 large 12-inch pizza 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose or bread flour
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar

Pizza Base & Toppings

  • ½ cup tomato sauce
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Favorite toppings (fresh vegetables, cured meats, fresh herbs)
  • Olive oil for brushing crust edges

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water and let it activate until frothy, about 5-10 minutes. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Gradually add in the yeast mixture and olive oil, kneading the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours until doubled in size.
  2. Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles. On a floured surface, stretch or roll the dough into your preferred pizza shape and thickness. Transfer the dough to a pizza stone or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy handling.
  3. Add the Sauce and Cheese: Spread a thin, even layer of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese ensuring it covers the sauce evenly but leaving space for toppings.
  4. Top Your Pizza: Add your chosen toppings such as fresh basil, sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or meats. Avoid overloading to ensure even baking.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) or as high as safely possible. Bake the pizza for 12 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly, and the crust is golden brown. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Use a pizza stone for a crispier crust similar to restaurant quality.
  • Don’t overload toppings to prevent sogginess and ensure even cooking.
  • Allow dough to rest after kneading for easier stretching and improved texture.
  • Preheat the oven thoroughly for authentic crust crispiness.
  • Brush crust edges with olive oil to achieve a golden-brown finish and added flavor.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of pizza)
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 4.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: homemade pizza, pizza dough, crispy pizza crust, fresh toppings, mozzarella pizza, easy pizza recipe, gluten-free pizza option