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Delicious cheesy pepperoni pizza slice with steam rising

Name: Classic Homemade Pizza

Summary: A delicious, crowd-pleasing homemade pizza recipe with a chewy crust, rich tomato sauce, melty mozzarella, and your favorite toppings. Perfect for family nights, parties, or anytime you crave an oven-fresh slice!
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: dinner
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients:
  • For the Dough:
  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 2 ¼ tsp 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water 110°F / 45°C
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • For the Sauce:
  • 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Toppings:
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan optional
  • 12 –15 slices pepperoni or toppings of your choice: vegetables, sausage, mushrooms, etc.
  • Fresh basil leaves optional
  • Olive oil for drizzling

Equipment

  • Equipment:
  • Mixing bowl
  • Rolling Pin
  • Pizza stone or baking sheet
  • Oven
  • Pizza Cutter
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Dough scraper (optional)
  • Parchment paper (optional)

Method
 

  1. Instructions:
  2. Make the Dough:
  3. In a bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water and sprinkle yeast on top. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for 8–10 minutes. Cover and let it rise for 1–2 hours until doubled.
  4. Prepare the Sauce:
  5. Mix crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Simmer for 10 minutes on low heat or use fresh if desired.
  6. Preheat the Oven:
  7. Heat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a pizza stone inside (if using) for at least 30 minutes to preheat.
  8. Shape the Dough:
  9. Punch down the risen dough. Divide it in half for two medium pizzas or use as one large. Roll out to desired thickness on floured surface.
  10. Assemble the Pizza:
  11. Spread sauce evenly over the dough. Add cheese and toppings. Drizzle lightly with olive oil.
  12. Bake:
  13. Transfer pizza to the hot stone or baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
  14. Finish and Serve:
  15. Add fresh basil or extra cheese if desired. Let rest 2 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Notes:
Use bread flour for a chewier crust.
Add chili flakes or hot honey for a spicy kick.
Dough can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to 48 hours.
Experiment with toppings like arugula, prosciutto, or roasted garlic.