Description
Making pizza at home is an experience that combines creativity, flavor, and fun! This Perfect Homemade Pizza Recipe gives you everything you need to create a soft, chewy crust, a flavorful tomato sauce, and perfectly melted cheese—all topped with your favorite ingredients. Whether it’s family dinner, a party, or just a special treat for yourself, this recipe delivers a pizza that’s crispy, cheesy, and absolutely delicious.
Ingredients
Pizza Dough:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (160 g)
- 1 tsp yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 fl oz warm water (90 ml)
Tomato Pizza Sauce:
- 14 oz tomatoes (400 g), canned or fresh
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 4–5 basil leaves, chopped
- 1 tbsp oregano
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Black pepper to taste
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
Pizza Toppings:
- Pepperoni sausage slices (as desired)
- 7 oz mozzarella cheese (200 g), shredded
- Sliced onion (as desired)
- Sweet corn (as desired)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine 3 fl oz warm water, 1 tsp yeast, and 1 tsp sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until bubbles form and it becomes foamy.
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup flour and ¼ tsp salt. Create a well in the center, pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil, and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let It Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rest in a warm place for 1-2 hours until it doubles in size.
2. Make the Tomato Pizza Sauce
- Cook the Sauce: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Simmer the Tomatoes: Stir in 14 oz tomatoes, 1 tbsp oregano, 4-5 basil leaves, 1 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tsp sugar, ¼ tsp salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Blend (Optional): For a smoother sauce, blend with an immersion blender.
3. Roll Out the Dough
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
- Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles. Transfer to a floured surface and roll it out into a circle or your preferred shape, about ¼ inch thick.
4. Assemble the Pizza
- Spread the Sauce: Place the rolled-out dough on a baking sheet or preheated pizza stone. Spread a thin, even layer of sauce over the surface, leaving a small border for the crust.
- Add the Toppings: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. Add pepperoni slices, sliced onions, and sweet corn as desired.
5. Bake the Pizza
- Bake: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The crust should be golden brown, and the cheese should be bubbly and slightly browned.
- Slice and Serve: Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve hot. Enjoy!
Notes
- Customize Your Pizza: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, or even pineapple for extra flavor.
- Make the Dough Ahead: Store the dough in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours after kneading.
- Crispier Crust: Use a perforated pizza pan or preheat a pizza stone for an ultra-crispy base.
- Cheese Tip: Freshly grate your mozzarella for the best melting and texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired