homemade pizza – Better Than Takeout and Fun to Make

Did you know that 70% of people surveyed prefer homemade pizza to takeout, citing freshness and customization as key factors? This recipe for homemade pizza recipes with customizable toppings and fresh dough from scratch will prove why. Ditch the delivery apps and embrace the joy of creating your personalized pizza masterpiece! This recipe allows you to control every ingredient, ensuring a delicious and satisfying experience, far superior to any takeout option.

Ingredients List:

This recipe yields two 12-inch pizzas.

For the Dough:

• 1 cup (240ml) warm water (105-115°F)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 1/2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Sauce:

• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste (Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!)

For the Toppings: (Get creative!)

• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Your favorite toppings! (Pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, peppers, olives, sausage, etc.)

Substitutions:

• Flour: Use bread flour for a chewier crust, or substitute 1/2 cup with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Yeast: If you don’t have active dry yeast, you can use instant yeast (use the same amount).
• Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone, parmesan, or a blend.

Timing:

• Prep time: 20 minutes (Includes dough preparation and topping prep)
• Rise time: 60 minutes (Dough needs time to prove)
• Cook time: 10-15 minutes per pizza
• Total time: Approximately 90 minutes, which is significantly faster than many complex pizza recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Making the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy. This indicates the yeast is active and ready to work its magic!
2. Stir in olive oil, flour, and salt. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add a little extra flour if the dough is too sticky. Pro-tip: If you have a stand mixer, use the dough hook for easier kneading.
3. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until doubled in size. A slightly warmer room will help speed up this process

Step 2: Preparing the Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices! Add a dash of sugar to balance acidity if needed.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

Step 3: Assembling and Baking the Pizza

1. Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C).
2. Punch down the dough and divide it in half. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each half into a 12-inch circle. For a rustic look, shape the dough by hand.
3. Transfer the dough to a pizza stone or baking sheet.
4. Spread a thin layer of sauce over each crust, leaving a small border.
5. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and your desired toppings.
6. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1/2 Pizza):

• Calories: Approximately 500-700 (depending on toppings)
• Fat: 20-30g
• Protein: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 60-80g

(Note: This is an estimate. Nutritional information varies depending on the specific ingredients used.)

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe:

• Whole wheat crust: Use whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.
• Reduced-fat cheese: Opt for part-skim mozzarella or a lower-fat cheese alternative.
• Load up on veggies: Maximize the vegetable content for added vitamins and minerals. Consider roasted vegetables for enhanced flavor.
• Lean protein: Choose lean protein sources like grilled chicken or turkey instead of high-fat meats.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve your homemade pizza hot and fresh! Consider a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables. For a truly personalized experience, let each family member create their own unique pizza topping combinations!

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Overworking the dough: Overkneading can result in a tough crust.
• Not letting the dough rise enough: Insufficient rising time will result in a dense crust.
• Overloading with toppings: Too many toppings can prevent the crust from cooking properly.

Storing Tips for the Recipe:

• Leftovers: Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven for best results.
• Dough: Unused dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.

Conclusion:

Making homemade pizza recipes with customizable toppings and fresh dough from scratch is a rewarding and delicious experience. This recipe offers a customizable and satisfying alternative to takeout, allowing you to control the freshness and quality of every ingredient. Now that you’ve mastered this recipe, why not explore some creative topping combinations and share your culinary creations with friends and family? Share your pizza pictures with us on social media using #HomemadePizzaPerfection!

Don’t forget to check out our other delicious recipes!

FAQs:

• Q: Can I use pre-made pizza dough? A: Absolutely! This recipe can be easily adapted for pre-made dough – just skip the dough-making steps.
• Q: How do I prevent a soggy crust? A: Ensure your oven is hot enough and that you don’t overload the pizza with toppings.
• Q: Can I freeze the pizza before baking? A: Yes, you can assemble the pizza and freeze it before baking. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
• Q: What if my yeast doesn’t activate? A: Ensure your water is the correct temperature (105-115°F). If it still doesn’t activate, try using a fresh packet of yeast.

Remember to share your delicious homemade pizza creations!

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🍕 Homemade Pizza – Crispy Crust & Perfect Toppings Every Time

This Homemade Pizza recipe delivers a crispy, chewy crust, rich tomato sauce, and melty cheese — just like your favorite pizzeria, but made right in your kitchen. Customize with your favorite toppings for pizza night perfection!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Course Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine Italian-American

Servings 1 slice

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Baking sheet or pizza stone
• Rolling pin (or hands!)
• Oven
• Pizza cutter or sharp knife

Ingredients

  

For the Dough (Makes 2 pizzas)

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup warm water about 110°F / 43°C
• 2¼ tsp 1 packet instant yeast
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt

For the Sauce

• 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes or pizza sauce
• 1 clove garlic minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Toppings (Customize!)

• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Pepperoni mushrooms, olives, onions, bell peppers, sausage, fresh basil, etc.

Instructions

 

Step 1 – Make the Dough

• In a bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
• Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
• Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled.

Step 2 – Prepare Sauce

• In a small bowl, mix crushed tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
• Taste and adjust seasoning. No cooking required!

Step 3 – Assemble Pizza

• Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C).
• Divide dough in half. Roll out each half into a 10–12 inch round.
• Transfer to a floured baking sheet or parchment.
• Spread a thin layer of sauce over dough, then sprinkle cheese and add toppings.
• Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until crust is golden and cheese is bubbling.

Step 4 – Serve

• Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
• Garnish with fresh basil, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of olive oil.

Notes

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheat in oven or skillet to keep crust crispy.

Dough can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Keyword homemade pizza, easy pizza recipe, pizza dough from scratch, pizza crust, pizza night, crispy pizza, oven baked pizza, homemade pizza sauce, mozzarella pizza

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