🍕 The Ultimate Homemade Pizza Recipe – Crispy, Cheesy, and Delicious!

Pizza 😋 

There's nothing quite like the smell of fresh pizza baking in the oven—especially when it's homemade! This easy and foolproof pizza recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. With a chewy crust, rich tomato sauce, and endless topping options, it's a recipe you'll come back to again and again.

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🧂 Ingredients

For the Dough (Makes 2 Medium Pizzas):

• 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F / 45°C)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 3 ½ to 4 cups all-purpose flour

For the Sauce:

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

Topping Ideas:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Pepperoni slices
• Sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, onions
• Fresh basil, arugula, or chili flakes (optional garnish)

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Make the Dough:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Stir in olive oil and salt, then add the flour gradually.
3. Knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

1. In a small pan, heat olive oil and sauté the garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
2. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, then remove from heat and let cool.

3. Assemble the Pizza:

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
2. Punch down the dough and divide it in half. Roll each half into a 10–12 inch circle on a floured surface.
3. Spread a layer of sauce over the dough, followed by cheese and your favorite toppings.

4. Bake:

1. Carefully transfer the pizza to a hot baking stone or tray.
2. Bake for 10–14 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
3. Cool slightly, slice, and enjoy your homemade masterpiece!

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🍴 Tips for Success:

• Let your dough rise in a warm, draft-free area.
• Preheating the oven (and your pizza stone or pan) ensures a crisp bottom crust.
• Use parchment paper for easy transfer and cleanup.

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📸 Don’t Forget:

Snap a photo of your finished pizza and tag us with #MyHomemadePizza on Facebook.