Go Back
Homemade Pizza Recipe

Homemade Pizza Recipe

Learn how to make the best homemade pizza recipe with a crispy crust, rich tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella. Easy step-by-step recipe for beginners.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Rise Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 4 People
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Pizza Dough
  • teaspoons active dry yeast 1 packet
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup warm water about 110°F/43°C
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Pizza Sauce
  • 1 cup crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon granulated sugar
For the Toppings
  • cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • ½ small onion thinly sliced
  • ½ bell pepper thinly sliced
  • ½ cup sliced mushrooms
  • ¼ cup sliced black olives
  • ½ cup sliced pepperoni or ½ cup cooked chicken optional
Optional Garnishes
  • Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Crushed red pepper flakes
  • Italian seasoning
  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Rolling pin
  • Baking tray or pizza stone
  • Parchment paper
  • Oven

Method
 

Step 1: Activate the Yeast
  1. In a bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and stir gently.
  2. Give it five to ten minutes to sit until foamy.The yeast is ready and active if bubbles appear.
Step 2: Make the Pizza Dough
  1. To the yeast mixture, add flour, salt, and olive oil. Stir until a dough is formed.
  2. After transferring the dough to a surface dusted with flour, knead it for eight to ten minutes, or until it is elastic and smooth.
  3. Proper kneading develops gluten, giving the pizza its chewy texture.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
  1. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl.Place a kitchen towel over it and leave it in a warm location for an hour, or until it has doubled in size.
  2. This resting period enhances flavor and texture.
Step 4: Prepare the Pizza Sauce
  1. In a small bowl, mix crushed tomatoes, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and sugar. Stir well and set aside.
  2. For deeper flavor, you can simmer the sauce for 5–10 minutes.
Step 5: Preheat the Oven
  1. Preheat your oven to 220°C. If using a pizza stone, place it inside while the oven heats.
  2. A hot oven is key to achieving a crispy crust.
Step 6: Shape the Pizza Base
  1. Divide the risen dough into two equal parts by punching it down.Each portion should be stretched or rolled into a round shape of 10 to 12 inches. To keep the dough airy, don’t overwork it.
  2. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking tray.
Step 7: Add Sauce and Toppings
  1. Evenly cover the dough with a thin layer of pizza sauce.Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and your preferred garnishes.The pizza may become soggy if too many toppings are added.
Step 8: Bake the Pizza
  1. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese melts and bubbles.
  2. Before slicing, take it out of the oven and allow it to rest for two to three minutes.

Notes

To make the crust golden, brush the edges with olive