Description
This classic homemade pizza recipe features a perfectly chewy and crispy crust, a flavorful tomato sauce infused with garlic and herbs, and a generous topping of melted mozzarella cheese with your choice of fresh toppings. Ideal for a family meal or gathering, this pizza is baked to golden perfection in just under 45 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Assorted toppings (pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, onions, etc.)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: Dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add yeast mixture and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while preheating.
- Prepare the Sauce: Heat tomato sauce with garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper in a small saucepan over medium heat for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend flavors.
- Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out to desired thickness on a floured surface. Transfer to a baking sheet or preheated pizza stone.
- Assemble the Pizza: Spread the sauce evenly over the dough. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and add your preferred assorted toppings.
- Bake the Pizza: Bake in the preheated oven for 12–20 minutes, until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven, let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, slice, and serve hot.
Notes
- Ensure the water is warm but not hot to activate the yeast properly.
- Letting the dough rise fully is key to a light and airy crust.
- You can customize toppings based on preference or dietary needs.
- Using a pizza stone helps achieve a crispier crust.
- Allow the pizza to cool slightly before slicing to prevent the cheese from sliding.
