Homemade Pizza Recipe

Making pizza from scratch at home is easier than you might think and can be tailored to your exact taste. This homemade pizza recipe features a soft, chewy crust, topped with gooey mozzarella and your favorite toppings. It’s perfect for family pizza night or when you’re craving a delicious, customizable meal.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 2 tsp active dry yeast
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 cup pizza sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Your favorite toppings (pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, etc.)

Directions

1. In a mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Add flour, olive oil, salt, and sugar to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
4. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness and shape.
6. Spread the pizza sauce over the dough, add the shredded mozzarella cheese, and top with your favorite toppings.
7. Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
8. Slice and enjoy your homemade pizza!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 1 hour
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Crust: For a thinner crust, roll the dough out thinner. For a thicker crust, let the dough rise for a longer period of time before rolling it out.
• Sauce: Try different sauces such as Alfredo sauce, barbecue sauce, or a pesto base to switch up the flavor.
• Cheese: Mix up the cheese by adding provolone, cheddar, or even goat cheese for a unique twist.
• Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Try vegetables like spinach, onions, olives, or tomatoes, or add protein with chicken, sausage, or bacon.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, bake in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 8-10 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes, though the oven method helps keep the crust crispy.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat flour for the dough? Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for part or all of the all-purpose flour for a healthier option, though the texture may be denser.
2. Can I freeze the dough? Yes, after the dough rises, you can freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.
3. How can I make the crust extra crispy? To make the crust crispy, preheat your pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven while it heats up, and bake the pizza directly on the hot surface.
4. What’s the best way to prevent a soggy pizza? To prevent sogginess, ensure you don’t overload the pizza with sauce and toppings. Drain excess moisture from vegetables, and pre-bake the crust for a few minutes before adding the sauce and toppings.
5. Can I use store-bought pizza dough? Yes, you can use store-bought dough if you want to save time, but homemade dough tends to have a fresher flavor and texture.
6. How can I add more flavor to the dough? You can add garlic powder, dried oregano, or basil to the dough mixture to enhance the flavor.
7. Can I make a gluten-free version? Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Ensure you also use gluten-free yeast.
8. Can I use a different cheese besides mozzarella? Absolutely! Feel free to use a variety of cheeses, such as cheddar, gouda, or Parmesan for different flavors.
9. How do I know when my pizza is done baking? The pizza is done when the crust is golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also check the underside of the crust; it should be lightly browned.
10. Can I make mini pizzas instead of one large pizza? Yes, you can divide the dough into smaller portions to make individual mini pizzas. Just adjust the baking time to around 8-10 minutes.

Conclusion

Homemade pizza is a fun, customizable, and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With a simple dough base, a few ingredients, and a little creativity, you can create a pizza that’s tailored to your tastes. Whether you’re a fan of classic cheese or enjoy experimenting with toppings, this homemade pizza recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Print