Pizza is a beloved dish enjoyed by millions around the world, and making it at home can be a fun and rewarding experience. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of creating a delicious homemade pizza from scratch. From preparing the dough to adding your favorite toppings, follow these instructions to craft a pizza that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
  • 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt

For the Sauce:

  • 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings:

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup your choice of toppings (pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, etc.)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

  1. Activate the Yeast:
    • In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy. If the mixture doesn’t foam, the yeast may be expired, and you should start with fresh yeast.
  2. Mix the Dough:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 1/2 cups of flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon or a dough hook attachment on a stand mixer until the dough starts to come together.
  3. Knead the Dough:
    • Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes, adding more flour as needed, until the dough is smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead on medium speed for about 5 minutes.
  4. Let the Dough Rise:
    • Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning it once to coat it in oil. Cover the bowl with a clean cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Sauce

  1. Combine Ingredients:
    • In a medium saucepan, mix together the tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Simmer:
    • Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before using.

3. Preheat the Oven

  1. Set the Temperature:
    • Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) or as high as it will go. If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat as well.

4. Shape the Dough

  1. Punch Down and Divide:
    • Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and divide it into two portions for two smaller pizzas or keep it whole for one large pizza.
  2. Roll Out:
    • Using a rolling pin, roll out the dough to your desired thickness. Transfer it to a floured pizza peel or an inverted baking sheet if you’re using a pizza stone. If you’re not using a stone, place the dough on a lightly greased pizza pan or baking sheet.

5. Assemble the Pizza

  1. Spread the Sauce:
    • Using a spoon or ladle, spread a layer of the prepared sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.
  2. Add Cheese and Toppings:
    • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the sauce. Add any additional toppings you like, such as pepperoni, sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, or olives. Finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

6. Bake the Pizza

  1. Bake:
    • Transfer the pizza to the preheated oven. If using a pizza stone, slide the pizza onto the stone using the peel. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
  2. Cool:
    • Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the cheese set and makes it easier to cut.

7. Serve and Enjoy

  1. Slice and Serve:
    • Use a pizza cutter or a sharp knife to cut the pizza into slices. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade pizza!

Tips for Success

  • Use a Pizza Stone: For a crispier crust, use a preheated pizza stone. Place it in the oven while it preheats and transfer the pizza to the stone using a pizza peel.
  • Experiment with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings. Try different cheeses, meats, vegetables, and herbs to find your perfect combination.
  • Let the Dough Rest: If the dough is too elastic and difficult to shape, let it rest for 10 minutes before rolling it out. This will make it easier to work with.

Making pizza at home allows you to customize every aspect of your meal, from the crust to the toppings. Enjoy the process and savor the delicious results of your homemade pizza creation!

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