Description
This Perfect Homemade Pizza Recipe guides you through making a classic, delicious pizza from scratch, featuring a flavorful yeast dough, a savory tomato sauce, and melty cheeses topped with your favorite ingredients. Ideal for a cozy meal for two, this recipe balances the art of dough rising, simmering sauce, and high-heat baking to create an authentic pizzeria experience at home.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F / 45°C)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
- Additional toppings of your choice (e.g., pepperoni, bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, onions, etc.)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: Dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water, letting it sit for 5 minutes until frothy to activate the yeast for proper rising.
- Mix and Knead the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and optional garlic powder. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, then knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic, forming a soft dough.
- Let the Dough Rise: Shape the dough into a ball, cover it with a damp cloth, and leave it in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours until it doubles in size, developing the perfect texture.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the dough rises, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add tomato sauce, oregano, garlic powder, and optional red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper, simmering gently for 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 475°F (245°C) to ensure a hot baking environment for crisp crust and bubbly cheese.
- Shape the Dough: Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll each out on a lightly floured surface into thin rounds or your preferred shape.
- Assemble the Pizzas: Place dough onto a pizza stone or baking sheet. Spread the prepared sauce over the dough evenly, then layer shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Add your favorite additional toppings.
- Bake the Pizzas: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the crust turns golden and cheese is melted and slightly browned.
- Serve: Remove the pizzas from the oven, garnish with fresh basil if desired, slice, and enjoy your homemade perfect pizzas!
Notes
- For best yeast activation, ensure the water temperature is around 110°F (45°C).
- Optional garlic powder in dough and sauce adds extra flavor but can be omitted for a milder taste.
- Use a pizza stone if available to achieve a crispier crust.
- Customize toppings according to preference but avoid overloading the pizza to ensure even cooking.
- Let the dough rise in a draft-free, warm place to help it double adequately.
