Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Few things are as satisfying as a hot, fresh pizza made right in your own kitchen. A homemade pizza gives you complete control over the dough, the sauce, and the toppings, so you can craft the perfect pie exactly the way you like it. Whether you crave a classic Margherita, a meaty supreme, or a veggie-packed delight, this recipe serves as the ideal foundation.
What I personally love about making pizza at home is the versatility—it’s fun to experiment with different cheeses, sauces, and toppings, and you can make it as simple or gourmet as you like. I once tried using a garlic cream sauce instead of tomato, topped with spinach and mushrooms, and it was absolutely delicious. With this recipe, you’ll master a basic pizza dough and sauce that can be transformed into endless variations of everyone’s favorite comfort food.
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Homemade Pizza Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hr 35 mins
- Yield: 2 medium pizzas
- Diet: Halal
Description
This homemade pizza recipe features a chewy golden crust topped with savory tomato sauce, gooey melted cheese, and your favorite toppings. It’s simple, customizable, and perfect for pizza night at home.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
- 3 1/2 – 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Your choice of toppings (pepperoni, vegetables, mushrooms, olives, etc.)
Instructions
- In a bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Add olive oil, salt, and flour (1 cup at a time), mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.
- Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven to heat.
- Punch down the dough and divide into 2 portions. Roll out into pizza rounds.
- Place dough on parchment paper, spread pizza sauce evenly, sprinkle cheese, and add toppings of choice.
- Transfer pizza to the preheated stone or baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes, until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then slice and serve.
Notes
- For a crispier crust, pre-bake the dough for 5 minutes before adding toppings.
- You can freeze extra dough for later use.
- Experiment with sauces such as pesto or Alfredo for variety.
- Prep Time: 20 mins (plus 1 hr rise time)
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
All-purpose flour
This is the base of the dough. It gives structure and helps achieve a chewy yet crispy crust.
Instant yeast
Helps the dough rise, creating a light and airy texture.
Sugar
Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savory toppings.
Salt
Enhances flavor and strengthens the dough structure.
Olive oil
Adds richness to the dough and helps create a crisp, golden crust.
Warm water
Activates the yeast and helps bind the dough together.
Tomato sauce (or pizza sauce)
Forms the flavorful base. You can use homemade or store-bought pizza sauce.
Mozzarella cheese
The essential gooey, melty topping that makes pizza irresistible.
Parmesan cheese
Adds a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Toppings of choice
Pepperoni, vegetables, sausage, mushrooms, olives, peppers—whatever you love on your pizza.
Fresh basil (optional)
Perfect for a finishing touch on a Margherita or veggie pizza.
Directions
Start by preparing the dough. In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. Stir in olive oil, flour, and salt. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat.
Punch down the dough and divide it in half (this recipe makes two medium pizzas). Roll out one portion on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer to a baking sheet or pizza stone.
Spread tomato sauce evenly over the dough. Sprinkle with mozzarella, Parmesan, and your chosen toppings.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling. Remove from the oven, top with fresh basil if desired, and let cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
Equipment needed
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet or pizza stone
- Oven
- Pizza cutter or sharp knife
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 2 medium pizzas, each serving 3–4 people. Preparation takes about 20 minutes, rising time is 1–1.5 hours, and baking takes 12–15 minutes. Total time is around 1 hour 45 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, bake in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8–10 minutes, or warm in a skillet for a crispy crust. Pizza can also be frozen for up to 2 months—wrap slices tightly before freezing.
Variations and Customizations
Classic Margherita Pizza
Top with tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil.
Meat Lover’s Pizza
Add pepperoni, sausage, bacon, and ham for a hearty option.
Veggie Pizza
Use bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, spinach, and olives for a colorful, healthy twist.
BBQ Chicken Pizza
Swap tomato sauce for BBQ sauce, and top with chicken, red onions, and cheddar cheese.
White Pizza
Use a garlic cream sauce instead of tomato and top with spinach and ricotta.
Hawaiian Pizza
Add ham and pineapple for a sweet and savory balance.
Buffalo Chicken Pizza
Top with shredded chicken tossed in buffalo sauce and finish with ranch drizzle.
Gluten-Free Pizza
Make the dough with a gluten-free flour blend.
Cheesy-Stuffed Crust
Fold cheese sticks into the edges of the dough before baking.
Breakfast Pizza
Top with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheddar for a fun brunch twist.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, store-bought dough works if you’re short on time.
Do I need a pizza stone?
No, but it creates a crispier crust. A baking sheet works fine.
Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose?
Yes, bread flour gives a chewier crust.
How do I make the crust extra crispy?
Bake on a preheated stone or directly on the oven rack.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, freeze after the first rise. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
What is the best cheese for pizza?
Mozzarella is essential, but mixing in provolone, cheddar, or fontina adds flavor.
How do I keep the dough from sticking?
Use parchment paper or dust with flour/cornmeal before baking.
Can I make a thin-crust pizza with this recipe?
Yes, just roll the dough thinner and bake for slightly less time.
Should I cook toppings before adding them?
Precook raw meats and some vegetables (like mushrooms) to prevent sogginess.
Can I make this pizza vegan?
Yes, use vegan cheese and toppings, and ensure the dough is dairy-free.
Conclusion
Making homemade pizza is not only fun but also rewarding—you control every detail, from the crust to the toppings. This recipe provides a foolproof foundation that can be customized endlessly, whether you’re in the mood for something classic or creative. With a golden crust, melty cheese, and your favorite toppings, a homemade pizza is always a crowd-pleaser that turns any meal into a celebration.
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