Quick Description
A golden, crispy homemade pizza topped with rich tomato sauce, gooey mozzarella cheese, and perfectly crisp pepperoni slices. Ideal for a family dinner, game night, or weekend treat!
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 2 medium pizzas (8 slices each)
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Resting Time (Dough): 1 hour
- Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes
Ingredients List
Pizza Dough
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Pizza Sauce
- 1 cup tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 oz pepperoni slices (about 25–30 slices)
- 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
-
Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let sit for 5–10 minutes, until frothy.
-
Make the Dough:
- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt.
- Add olive oil and the activated yeast mixture.
- Stir until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
-
Let Dough Rise:
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
-
Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Stir in tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar.
- Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
-
Assemble the Pizza:
- Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C).
- Punch down dough and divide into 2 portions.
- Roll each portion into a 12-inch circle and place on a pizza pan or baking sheet.
- Spread ½ cup of sauce evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, then layer with pepperoni slices.
-
Bake the Pizza:
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and cheese is bubbling.
-
Finish & Serve:
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Slice and serve hot!
Additional Notes
- Crispier Crust: Bake directly on a preheated pizza stone.
- Thicker Crust: Let dough rise for 15 extra minutes after shaping before baking.
- Cheese Options: Mix mozzarella with provolone or Monterey Jack for a richer flavor.
Dietary Info
- High-Protein (from cheese and pepperoni)
- Contains gluten and dairy
- Can be made low-carb: Use a cauliflower or almond flour crust alternative.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Dough Shortcut: Use store-bought pizza dough or flatbread.
- Vegan Version: Use vegan cheese and plant-based pepperoni.
- Low-Carb Sauce: Swap tomato sauce for sugar-free marinara.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or sliced jalapeños.
- Loaded Pizza: Include mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers.
- Mini Pizzas: Make small 4-inch rounds for a fun appetizer.
- Pair With: Garlic breadsticks, Caesar salad, or a light coleslaw.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Refrigerate: Store leftover slices in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes.
- Freeze: Freeze unbaked dough up to 2 months or baked slices for quick meals.
