How To Bake Pizza At Home

Baking pizza at home is a fun and rewarding experience, and you can customize it exactly to your taste. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making a delicious homemade pizza.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• ¾ cup warm water (110°F or 45°C)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup canned tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 garlic clove (minced)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings:

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Your choice of toppings (pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, onions, etc.)
• Fresh basil leaves (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon or use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
3. Knead the dough: Transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Let it rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, heat the olive oil and sauté the garlic for 30 seconds.
2. Add tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Simmer for about 10 minutes, then set aside.

3. Roll Out the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat.
2. Punch down the dough and roll it into a 12-inch circle on a floured surface.
3. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza peel (if using a stone).

4. Assemble the Pizza

1. Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the dough.
2. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly.
3. Add your favorite toppings.
4. Drizzle a little olive oil for extra flavor.

5. Bake the Pizza

1. Place the pizza in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
3. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.

6. Serve & Enjoy!

• Garnish with fresh basil or extra cheese if desired.
• Slice and enjoy your homemade pizza!

Pro Tips for Perfect Homemade Pizza

✔ Use a Pizza Stone: Preheat the stone in the oven for a crispier crust.
✔ High Heat is Key: Baking at high temperatures (475°F or more) ensures a restaurant-quality crust.
✔ Experiment with Toppings: Try different cheeses, meats, or vegetables.
✔ Thin vs. Thick Crust: Adjust the dough thickness to your preference.

Now, enjoy your homemade pizza with friends and family! 🍕😋