Making homemade cheesy pizza can be a fun and delicious experience.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create your own cheesy pizza from scratch
Ingredients
For the Pizza Dough
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 teaspoon sugar
3/4 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Pizza Sauce
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1-2 cloves garlic minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Additional toppings like sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, pepperoni, or olives (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pizza Dough: Using a bowl, combine sugar, active dry yeast and warm water, Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes to become frothy. In another bowl, combine your salt and flour. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix the ingredients until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel, allow it to rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
2. Prepare the Pizza Sauce: Combine crushed tomatoes, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper in a saucepan. Let the sauce simmer over low heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
3. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to the highest temperature it can go, typically around 475°F (245°C). If there is an available pizza stone, place it in the oven while preheating.
4. Prepare the Pizza: Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll out your dough into the desired thickness and shape. If you have a pizza peel, transfer the dough onto the peel but if you don’t, you can use parchment paper on a baking sheet. Spread your already made pizza sauce evenly on the dough, leave little border around the edges. Sprinkle your shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Add your desired toppings and finish with grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake the Pizza: Carefully slide the pizza (on parchment paper if using a baking sheet) onto the preheated pizza stone or directly onto the oven rack. Bake the pizza for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a minute or two. Slice it, serve hot, and enjoy your homemade cheesy pizza! Feel free to customize your pizza with your favorite cheeses, sauces, and toppings for a personalized and delicious homemade treat!
