Name: Perfect Homemade Pizza Recipe
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 12 min
Cuisine: Italian
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); 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; 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.)

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There’s something about homemade pizza that’s just so satisfying—maybe it’s the warm, cheesy goodness, or the fact that you can customize every bite to be exactly what you crave. Whether you’re a fan of a crispy thin crust or a soft, doughy base, this Perfect Homemade Pizza recipe gives you the freedom to create your ideal pizza from scratch. With a delicious, easy-to-make dough and all your favorite toppings, this pizza is the answer to all your pizza night dreams. Trust me, once you try making it at home, you’ll never want to order out again.

This recipe is all about bringing the pizza party to your kitchen, and it’s perfect for family nights, date nights, or just when you’re craving a slice (or two… or three!). The best part? You can make it exactly how you like, from the sauce to the cheese to the toppings, so each pizza is as personal as it gets.

Why You’ll Love Perfect Homemade Pizza

Making pizza at home is an experience. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:

Fresh & Flavorful

Homemade pizza means you’re in control of every ingredient. Fresh dough, rich tomato sauce, and high-quality cheese make all the difference in flavor. When you bake it fresh in your oven, the taste is unbeatable.

Totally Customizable

Top your pizza with whatever you like! Want a classic Margherita? Go for it. Craving a veggie pizza, pepperoni, or a loaded meat lover’s? This recipe gives you the flexibility to make any pizza you desire.

Fun to Make

There’s something so satisfying about rolling out the dough, spreading the sauce, and adding all those toppings. Whether you’re cooking solo or involving the family, it’s a fun and interactive meal that everyone can enjoy.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual dinner, a gathering with friends, or a weekend treat, this pizza is perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s an easy way to impress guests with your culinary skills!

Deliciously Crispy

The crust comes out crispy on the outside and soft and chewy on the inside, creating that perfect pizza balance that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make a pizza that’ll rival your favorite pizzeria. The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity, and the flavors are pure and delicious.

For the Dough:

All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of your pizza dough. It gives the crust its structure and chewiness.
Active Dry Yeast: Helps the dough rise and gives it that perfect airy texture.
Warm Water: Activates the yeast and helps bring everything together.

Olive Oil: Adds flavor and helps the dough stay soft.
Sugar: Just a touch, to feed the yeast and help it rise.
Salt: Essential for seasoning the dough and balancing the flavors.

For the Sauce:

Canned Crushed Tomatoes: The base of your pizza sauce. Opt for good-quality tomatoes for the best flavor.
Olive Oil: Adds richness to the sauce.
Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the sauce with that wonderful savory kick.

Dried Oregano & Basil: Classic herbs for an Italian-inspired pizza sauce.
Salt & Pepper: For seasoning the sauce to perfection.

For the Toppings:

Mozzarella Cheese: The star of the show. Fresh mozzarella will give you that melt-in-your-mouth, gooey texture.

Parmesan Cheese: A little sprinkle on top adds a salty, nutty depth of flavor.
Toppings of Your Choice: Pepperoni, bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, olives, or whatever your pizza-loving heart desires!

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Making homemade pizza is easier than it sounds. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying pizza from scratch in no time!

Prepare the Dough

Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, then stir until a dough forms. Turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Let it Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Make the Sauce

Cook the Garlic: In a small saucepan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Add Tomatoes & Seasoning: Add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir and simmer for about 10 minutes to let the flavors blend. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Set aside to cool.

Assemble the Pizza

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it’s preheating for the best crispy crust.
Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two balls (for two smaller pizzas) or leave it whole for one large pizza. Roll the dough out on a floured surface until it reaches your desired thickness.
Add the Sauce: Spread a generous amount of the tomato sauce on the rolled-out dough, leaving a border for the crust.

Top with Cheese: Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella cheese over the sauce, then add any other toppings you love—like pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, or olives.
Bake the Pizza: Transfer the pizza to a baking sheet or a preheated pizza stone. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy, and the cheese is bubbly and melted.

Finishing Touches

Once the pizza is baked, remove it from the oven and sprinkle with a little parmesan cheese. Slice it up, grab a napkin (or not!), and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 250-350 calories (depending on toppings and portion size)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1-1.5 hours for dough rising)
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (for one large pizza)

How to Serve Perfect Homemade Pizza

Pizza is a meal all on its own, but if you want to add a few sides to make it even more satisfying, here are some great ideas:

Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the pizza.
Garlic Bread: Soft, buttery garlic bread is a classic side dish that pairs wonderfully with pizza.
Roasted Veggies: Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus will add a healthy, flavorful touch.

Soda or Wine: Enjoy with a refreshing soda, a cold beer, or even a glass of red wine for a casual yet delicious meal.

Additional Tips

Pizza Stone: If you have a pizza stone, use it! It helps to crisp up the crust and gives you that pizzeria-quality pizza.
Preheat Your Oven: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking to ensure your pizza gets that perfect golden-brown crust.

Let the Dough Rest: If you’re short on time, you can let the dough rise for just 30 minutes, but the longer it rises, the more flavorful the dough will be.
Don’t Overload with Toppings: For the crispiest pizza, avoid overloading it with too many toppings. A few choice ingredients work best!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use store-bought dough?

A1: Yes, you can use store-bought pizza dough if you’re short on time. However, homemade dough gives you the best flavor and texture!

Q2: Can I freeze the pizza dough?

A2: Yes! You can freeze the dough after it’s risen. Just wrap it in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before using.

Q3: Can I make this pizza gluten-free?

A3: Yes, you can use gluten-free pizza dough. Just make sure to follow the instructions on the dough package for best results.

Q4: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

A4: Absolutely! The pizza sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q5: How can I make the crust extra crispy?

A5: For an extra crispy crust, you can bake the pizza on a preheated pizza stone or a cast-iron skillet. Also, be sure to not overload the pizza with sauce and toppings.

Q6: Can I add different cheeses?

A6: Yes, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or goat cheese for a unique twist.

Q7: What toppings are best for homemade pizza?

A7: Popular toppings include pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, olives, and fresh basil. Get creative with whatever toppings you love!

Q8: Can I use a different crust recipe?

A8: Yes, you can try other crust recipes like whole wheat dough, cauliflower crust, or even a gluten-free version if needed.

Q9: Can I use fresh mozzarella?

A9: Fresh mozzarella is great for pizza! It melts

beautifully, but be sure to drain it well before adding it to your pizza to avoid excess moisture.

Q10: How do I store leftover pizza?

A10: Store leftover pizza in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes for the best results.

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like the taste of homemade pizza, and this recipe makes it easier than ever to create a pizza that’s as delicious as it is satisfying. From the crispy, golden crust to the gooey cheese and fresh toppings, this pizza will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy making it, eating it, and of course—sharing it with the people you love!

Perfect Homemade Pizza Recipe