Homemade Pizza Recipe

This Homemade Pizza Recipe brings you the joy of a classic pizzeria-style pie right from your own kitchen. Featuring a chewy crust, tangy sauce, and melty cheese, it’s endlessly customizable and always a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect balance of crispy crust and gooey cheese
• Customizable with your favorite toppings and sauces
• Dough can be made same day or in advance
• Family-friendly and fun to prepare together
• Deliciously budget-friendly alternative to takeout

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dough

• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F)
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose or bread flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar

For the Sauce

• 1 cup crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and red pepper flakes to taste

For the Toppings

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Optional toppings: pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, olives, sausage, basil, etc.

directions

1. In a large bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix and knead until a smooth dough forms (about 8–10 minutes).
3. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled, about 1–1.5 hours.
4. Preheat oven to 500°F. If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat.
5. Meanwhile, mix all sauce ingredients in a bowl and set aside.
6. Punch down dough and divide in half. Roll or stretch each half into a 12-inch round on parchment paper or a floured surface.
7. Spread sauce over dough, sprinkle with cheese, and add desired toppings.
8. Transfer pizza to the oven (using a baking sheet or pizza peel). Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
9. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: Makes 2 medium pizzas (4–6 servings)
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Rise time: 1–1.5 hours
• Cook time: 10–12 minutes
• Total time: ~1.5 to 2 hours

Variations

• Use whole wheat flour for a heartier crust
• Make white pizza by skipping the tomato sauce and using ricotta or Alfredo sauce
• Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or hot honey after baking
• Try BBQ sauce and shredded chicken for a BBQ pizza twist
• Add fresh arugula or basil after baking for freshness

storage/reheating

• Store leftover pizza in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Reheat in the oven or toaster oven at 375°F for 8–10 minutes
• Dough can be refrigerated up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry?

Yes, skip the proofing step and mix it directly with the flour.

What flour works best for pizza dough?

Bread flour gives a chewier crust, but all-purpose works well too.

How can I make the crust crispier?

Bake on a preheated pizza stone or steel, and avoid overloading with toppings.

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, portion and freeze after the first rise. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.

What if I don’t have a pizza stone?

Use a preheated baking sheet turned upside down or a pizza pan.

Can I make the dough ahead?

Yes, refrigerate overnight after the first rise for better flavor.

What cheese is best for pizza?

Low-moisture mozzarella is ideal; mix with provolone or Parmesan for variety.

How do I avoid soggy crust?

Use less sauce and bake at a high temperature on a hot surface.

Is homemade pizza healthier than delivery?

Generally yes, since you control the ingredients and portions.

How can I make gluten-free pizza dough?

Use a gluten-free flour blend and check your yeast is gluten-free.

Conclusion

Homemade Pizza is a fun, rewarding meal that delivers big flavor and can be tailored exactly to your taste. Whether you keep it classic or get creative with toppings, this recipe is your gateway to better pizza nights at home.

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