Homemade Cheese Pizza(Golden, Crispy Crust with Melted Mozzarella)


Quick Description

This Homemade Cheese Pizza is the ultimate comfort food with a golden, crispy crust, a rich and savory tomato sauce, and generous amounts of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for family dinners, casual meals with friends, or any time youโ€™re craving pizza!


Servings & Timing

  • Servings: 8 slices
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients List

For the Pizza Dough:

  • 2 ยผ teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 ยฝ cups warm water (110ยฐF)
  • 3 ยฝ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Pizza Sauce:

  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ยฝ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Toppings:

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
  • Olive oil for drizzling (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Dough:

  1. In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir to combine and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, stirring until a dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes on a floured surface until it is smooth and elastic. Form it into a ball.
  4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Prepare the Sauce:

  1. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the tomato sauce, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Preheat the Oven:

  1. Preheat your oven to 475ยฐF (245ยฐC) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up.

Shape the Pizza Dough:

  1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two equal portions (for two pizzas).
  2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a circle or your desired shape, about 12 inches in diameter.

Assemble the Pizza:

  1. Transfer the shaped dough to a parchment paper-lined pizza peel or baking sheet.
  2. Spread a thin layer of the prepared pizza sauce over the dough.
  3. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on top, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese.

Bake the Pizza:

  1. Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven.
  2. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve:

  1. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
  2. Optional: Drizzle with a little olive oil and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a full meal.
  • Pair with a refreshing lemonade or a glass of red wine.

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerator: Store leftover pizza in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Heat in the oven at 375ยฐF for 5โ€“7 minutes, or in a skillet for a crispy bottom.

Benefits & Nutritional Info

  • Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
  • Easy & Delicious: A classic, quick, and tasty meal perfect for any time of day.

FAQs

  1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
    Yes, you can make the dough ahead and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before using.
  2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
    Absolutely! You can use cheddar, provolone, or parmesan for a unique twist.
  3. Can I make this gluten-free?
    Yes, you can use gluten-free flour or a store-bought gluten-free pizza dough for a gluten-free version.

Conclusion

This Homemade Cheese Pizza is perfect for a family dinner, casual meal, or a pizza night with friends. Itโ€™s simple, flavorful, and sure to please everyone!