Description
This perfect homemade pizza recipe guides you through making a delicious, classic pizza from scratch. With a flavorful yeast dough, a rich homemade tomato sauce, and the option to add your favorite toppings, this recipe delivers a crispy crust and melty cheese topping baked to golden perfection in your oven.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
Tomato Sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
- Additional toppings of your choice (e.g., pepperoni, bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, onions, etc.)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and optional garlic powder. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, stirring to combine.
- Knead the Dough: Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Let Dough Rise: Shape the dough into a ball, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the dough rises, heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add tomato sauce, oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and pepper, then simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Preheat Oven and Shape Dough: Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). Punch down the risen dough and divide into two portions. Roll each portion into a thin circle or desired shape on a lightly floured surface.
- Assemble the Pizza: Place the rolled dough onto a pizza stone or baking sheet. Spread the sauce evenly over the surface. Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then add your favorite toppings.
- Bake: Bake the pizzas in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Serve: Remove the pizzas from the oven, garnish with fresh basil if desired, slice, and enjoy your homemade pizza!
Notes
- Ensure the water is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
- For a crispier crust, use a pizza stone and preheat it in the oven before placing the pizza on it.
- You can customize the toppings as per your preference.
- If you like a thicker crust, roll the dough a bit thicker or allow a second rise after shaping.
- Use fresh basil for a fragrant garnish or substitute with dried basil in the sauce if preferred.
