Description
This Perfect Homemade Pizza Recipe teaches you how to make delicious, restaurant-quality pizza right in your own kitchen. With a simple yeast dough, flavorful tomato sauce, and melty cheese topped with your favorite ingredients, this recipe guarantees a crispy crust and cheesy perfection every time.
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)
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 active dry yeast and sugar in warm water (110°F/45°C). Let it rest for 5 minutes until the mixture is frothy, indicating the yeast is activated.
- Mix and Knead: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and garlic powder if using. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms, then knead by hand for 5-7 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
- Let the Dough Rise: Shape the kneaded dough into a ball, cover it with a damp cloth, and place it in a warm spot. Allow it to rise for 1 to 1.5 hours until it doubles in size.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the dough is rising, heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the canned tomato sauce, dried oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes if desired. Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
- Shape the Dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down to release air bubbles. Divide the dough into two equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion into a thin circle or your desired pizza shape.
- Assemble the Pizza: Transfer the rolled-out dough onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Evenly spread the prepared tomato sauce over the dough. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Add your favorite toppings.
- Bake: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Bake until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned.
- Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Slice and serve immediately for a warm, delicious meal.
Notes
- Ensure water temperature is around 110°F (45°C) to activate the yeast without killing it.
- For a crispier crust, use a pizza stone preheated in the oven.
- Customize toppings according to your preference, but avoid overloading the pizza to maintain a crispy crust.
- Allow the dough to rise fully for the best texture and flavor.
- Optional garlic powder in dough and sauce adds extra depth but can be omitted.