Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy.
- Add the bread flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Since this dough is slightly wetter than traditional pizza dough, avoid adding too much extra flour.

Step 2: First Rise
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl.
- Cover and let rise for 1½–2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- While the dough rises, heat olive oil in a saucepan.
- Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 20–25 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Allow the sauce to cool before assembling the pizza.

Step 4: Stretch the Dough
- Generously coat your baking pan with olive oil.
- Transfer the risen dough into the pan.
- Using lightly oiled fingertips, gently stretch it toward the corners.
- If it resists stretching, let it rest for 15 minutes before trying again.
- Cover and let rise for another 45–60 minutes.
- The dough should become puffy and nearly fill the pan.

Step 5: Assemble the Pizza
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
- Sprinkle the mozzarella evenly over the dough.
- Spread the tomato sauce over the cheese.
- Finish with grated Parmesan.
- Add any optional toppings if desired.

Step 6: Bake
- Bake for 18–25 minutes, or until:
- The crust is golden brown
- The cheese is bubbling
- The edges are crisp
- The bottom is deeply browned
- If needed, bake for an extra 2–3 minutes for a crispier crust.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
- Allow the pizza to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh basil, drizzle with olive oil, and enjoy.

Notes
Use bread flour for the best chewy, airy crust. All-purpose flour works, but the texture won't be quite as light.
