Name: Homemade Pizza Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2.25 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting); 1 packet instant yeast (approximately 2 1/4 teaspoons); 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for greasing); 0.75 cup warm water (about 110°F); 1 cup pizza sauce; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 0.5 cup sliced pepperoni (optional); 1 teaspoon dried oregano (for garnish); 0.5 teaspoon dried basil (for garnish)

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If you’ve ever dreamed of creating the perfect pizzeria experience right in your own kitchen, this Homemade Pizza Recipe is your ticket to flavor heaven. It combines a crispy, chewy crust with the richness of homemade sauce, a cheesy blanket of mozzarella and Parmesan, and the delightful zing of classic herbs. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe brings out the joy of making pizza from scratch, turning a simple meal into an exciting culinary adventure that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Everything you need for this Homemade Pizza Recipe comes together from simple, everyday ingredients that pack incredible taste and textures. Each element is thoughtfully chosen to build the perfect balance between crust, sauce, and toppings, making every slice irresistible.

2.25 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for your dough, ensuring a tender yet sturdy crust.
1 packet instant yeast (approximately 2 1/4 teaspoons): Helps your dough rise beautifully for that airy texture.
1 teaspoon salt: Adds depth and enhances all other flavors.
1 tablespoon sugar: Feeds the yeast and balances acidity in the dough.
2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for greasing): Keeps the dough soft and adds a subtle fruity richness.
0.75 cup warm water (about 110°F): Activates the yeast and brings the dough together smoothly.
1 cup pizza sauce: The saucy base that’s full of savory tomato goodness.
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly to create that classic, gooey pizza top.
0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty punch to the cheese blend.
0.5 cup sliced pepperoni (optional): For those who love a bit of spicy, meaty heat on their slice.
1 teaspoon dried oregano (for garnish): Sprinkled on top to bring an aromatic earthiness.
0.5 teaspoon dried basil (for garnish): Adds a sweet, herbal lift at the finish.

How to Make Homemade Pizza Recipe

Step 1: Mix and Knead the Dough

Start by combining your flour, yeast, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. Then, stir in olive oil and warm water to bring it all together into a rough dough. The magic happens when you knead it on a floured surface for around 10 minutes; you’ll notice it becoming smooth and elastic, the perfect texture that means your crust will bake up just right.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

Place your dough ball into a greased bowl, cover it gently, and let it sit in a warm spot until it doubles in size—about an hour. This resting period is essential because it lets the yeast work its charm, developing that lightness and flavor that makes this Homemade Pizza Recipe stand out.

Step 3: Prepare for Baking

While your dough is rising, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Once ready, punch the dough down to release excess air and roll it out into a 12-inch circle on a floured surface. Transferring it to a pizza stone or baking sheet will set you up for the perfect bake.

Step 4: Sauce and Cheese It Up

Spread a generous layer of pizza sauce evenly over your dough, then shower it with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan. If you’re a fan of pepperoni, scatter those slices on top now for a spicy, savory touch.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pop your assembled pizza into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown crust and cheese that’s bubbling and slightly caramelized for that irresistible finish.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle dried oregano and basil on top. These herbs add an aromatic lift that perfectly complements the rich cheese and tangy sauce, completing your Homemade Pizza Recipe masterwork before slicing and serving hot.

How to Serve Homemade Pizza Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can turn your pizza from amazing to unforgettable. Consider a handful of fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for those who love a little bite. These touches not only enhance flavor but add vibrant color to your presentation.

Side Dishes

This pizza pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or garlic-roasted vegetables. You can also add a bowl of homemade or store-bought marinara for dipping crusts—a fun and communal way to enjoy every bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual gathering, serve your pizza family-style on a rustic wooden board or a large platter. If you want to impress guests, slice the pizza into smaller squares or strips and arrange them with fresh herbs and dipping sauces, transforming your meal into an interactive party platter that everyone will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Your Homemade Pizza Recipe will stay tasty for 2 to 3 days, perfect for a quick snack or a reheated meal that still feels like a treat.

Freezing

You can freeze baked pizza slices by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. This way, you lock in freshness for up to 2 months—ready to pull out whenever a pizza craving strikes.

Reheating

To bring leftover pizza back to life, reheat it in a hot oven or a skillet on the stove. This helps keep the crust crispy and the cheese melty, much better than a microwave, which can leave your pizza soggy.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight, which actually enhances the flavor and texture. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before rolling it out.

What if I don’t have a pizza stone?

No worries! A baking sheet works just fine—just make sure to preheat your oven well and consider using parchment paper to prevent sticking. You’ll still get a delicious crust.

Can I use other toppings besides pepperoni?

Of course! This Homemade Pizza Recipe is wonderfully versatile. Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives, or experiment with different cheeses and meats to make it your own.

Is instant yeast necessary?

Instant yeast is preferred because it acts quickly and doesn’t require proofing, but if you only have active dry yeast, you can use it too—just dissolve it in warm water before mixing with dry ingredients.

How do I get a crispy crust every time?

Use as little flour as necessary when rolling out your dough and cook on a preheated pizza stone or a very hot baking sheet. Also, make sure your oven is fully preheated to a high temperature, which helps create that crisp, golden crust.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about making pizza from scratch, and this Homemade Pizza Recipe brings that joy right to your kitchen with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Whether it’s a family dinner or a weekend treat, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites to share. So grab your apron, get your hands doughy, and enjoy every delicious moment!

Homemade Pizza Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 12 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 1 large 12-inch pizza (serves 3-4) 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

This homemade pizza recipe offers a deliciously crispy crust topped with savory pizza sauce, melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and optional pepperoni. Perfect for a customizable pizza night, this easy-to-make dough yields a flavorful and satisfying classic Italian favorite.

Instructions

Combine Dough Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, salt, and sugar. Stir in olive oil and warm water until a shaggy dough forms, ensuring the ingredients are well incorporated.
Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This process helps develop the gluten for a tender crust.
Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, approximately 1 hour.
Preheat the Oven and Roll Dough: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Punch down the risen dough to release air, then roll it out on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle to fit your pizza stone or baking sheet.
Add Toppings: Transfer the rolled dough to your baking surface. Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough, sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses, and arrange pepperoni slices on top if desired.
Bake the Pizza: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until the crust turns golden brown and cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
Finish and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and sprinkle dried oregano and basil on top as garnish. Slice and serve hot for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

For a crispier crust, use a pizza stone preheated in the oven.
Feel free to customize toppings by adding vegetables or different cheeses.
If you prefer a thinner crust, roll the dough out more thinly but reduce the baking time slightly to avoid burning.
Ensure the water is warm (around 110°F) to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
Leftover dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours or frozen for longer storage.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian