Homemade Pizza

Making homemade pizza can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here’s a comprehensive recipe for a delicious pizza from scratch, including the dough, sauce, and topping.

Homemade Pizza Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F or 45°C)
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Sauce:

• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Toppings:

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup sliced pepperoni (or your favorite toppings like mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, etc.)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

1. In a small bowl, combine the yeast, warm water, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. This activates the yeast.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
3. Mix until the dough begins to come together. Then, transfer it to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

1. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the tomato sauce and tomato paste, stirring to combine.
2. Add oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Adjust seasoning to taste.

3. Assemble and Bake:

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat as well.
2. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions for two pizzas or keep it whole for a large pizza.
3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer the rolled dough onto a piece of parchment paper or a floured pizza peel if using a stone.
4. Spread a thin layer of the prepared sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the sauce, followed by your choice of toppings. Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
6. Transfer the pizza (with parchment paper if using) onto the preheated pizza stone or a baking sheet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

4. Serve:

1. Slice the pizza and serve hot. Enjoy your homemade creation!

This basic pizza recipe is versatile, so feel free to get creative with your toppings and cheese combinations. Whether you stick with classic pepperoni or load it up with fresh vegetables, homemade pizza is sure to be a hit.