Homemade Pizza Recipe

This Homemade Pizza recipe is simple, customizable, and perfect for a cozy night in or a fun cooking activity with family and friends. With a soft, chewy crust, tangy pizza sauce, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that beats delivery any day!

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus rising time)

Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
• 2 tbsp oil (olive oil or vegetable oil)

For the Toppings:

• 1/2 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Optional toppings: sliced pepperoni, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, olives, cooked sausage, fresh basil, etc.

Instructions:

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in the warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes , until frothy. This indicates the yeast is active.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and oil to the bowl. Stir until a dough begins to form.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes , until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1 hour , or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) . If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up. Otherwise, use a baking sheet.
2. Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough in half if making two smaller pizzas, or leave it whole for one large pizza.
3. Roll the dough into your desired shape (round, rectangular, etc.) and transfer it to a piece of parchment paper or a lightly floured pizza peel (if using a pizza stone).

Step 3: Add the Toppings

1. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.
2. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
3. Add your favorite toppings, such as pepperoni, vegetables, or cooked meats. Be careful not to overload the pizza, as this can make it soggy.

Step 4: Bake the Pizza

1. If using a pizza stone, carefully slide the pizza (with the parchment paper) onto the hot stone. If using a baking sheet, transfer the rolled-out dough to the sheet before adding toppings.
2. Bake for 12-15 minutes , or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
3. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for 2-3 minutes before slicing.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Slice the pizza into wedges or squares and garnish with fresh basil or red chili flakes if desired.
2. Serve hot with extra pizza sauce or a drizzle of olive oil on the side.

Tips for Success:

• Make ahead: The dough can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.
• Freeze the dough: Divide the dough into portions, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.
• Customize the sauce: Use marinara, pesto, or Alfredo sauce instead of traditional pizza sauce for variety.
• Crispy crust: Brush the edges of the crust with olive oil or garlic butter before baking for extra flavor and crispiness.

Nutritional Information (per slice, serves 8):

• Calories: ~220
• Protein: ~8g
• Carbohydrates: ~30g
• Fat: ~8g

Enjoy this Homemade Pizza as a versatile and satisfying meal that’s easy to customize to your taste. Whether you stick to the classics or get creative with toppings, it’s sure to become a family favorite!