Homemade Pizza Recipe Easy: The Perfect Slice in Under an Hour!

Craving a delicious, satisfying pizza but dreading the takeout wait times and hefty prices? Look no further! This homemade pizza recipe is so easy, you’ll be enjoying a perfectly customized slice in less than an hour. Forget complicated dough recipes and fussy toppings; we’re focusing on simplicity and flavor, making this the ultimate weeknight meal or weekend treat. Get ready to ditch the delivery menus and become your own pizza pro!

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe isn’t just easy; it’s designed for success. Here’s why it works:

• No-Fuss Dough: We’re using a simple, quick-rising yeast dough that requires minimal kneading. This means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your pizza.
• Customizable Toppings: The beauty of homemade pizza is the freedom to create your dream pie. This recipe provides a foundation, but you can tailor the toppings to your exact preferences.
• Quick Cooking Time: A hot oven ensures a crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese in just minutes.
• Beginner-Friendly: Even if you’ve never made pizza before, this recipe is foolproof. Clear instructions and helpful tips will guide you every step of the way.
• Budget-Friendly: Making pizza at home is significantly cheaper than ordering takeout. You control the quality of the ingredients and save money in the process.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create your easy homemade pizza:

• For the Dough:
  • 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing
• For the Sauce:
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Toppings:
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Your favorite toppings! (Pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, olives, etc.)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your perfect homemade pizza:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until foamy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.
2. Make the Dough: Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
4. Let the Dough Rise: Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes, or until doubled in size. While the dough rises, prepare your sauce and toppings.
5. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the tomato sauce, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
6. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.
7. Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a 12-inch circle or shape it into a rectangle.
8. Transfer to Baking Sheet or Pizza Stone: Carefully transfer the dough to a greased baking sheet or a preheated pizza stone. If using a pizza stone, you can dust a pizza peel with cornmeal to help transfer the pizza easily.
9. Add the Sauce and Toppings: Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and add your desired toppings.
10. Bake the Pizza: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Let Cool Slightly: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to ensure your homemade pizza turns out perfectly every time:

• Use Warm Water: The water should be warm, but not hot, to activate the yeast properly. Too hot, and you’ll kill the yeast.
• Don’t Over-Knead: Over-kneading can result in a tough crust. Knead just until the dough is smooth and elastic.
• Preheat the Oven Well: A hot oven is essential for a crispy crust. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking the pizza.
• Use a Pizza Stone (Optional): A pizza stone helps to create a crispier crust by distributing heat evenly. If you don’t have one, a baking sheet will work just fine.
• Don’t Overload the Toppings: Too many toppings can make the crust soggy. Use a moderate amount of toppings for the best results.
• Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings! Try different cheeses, vegetables, meats, and sauces to create your own signature pizza.

Storage Instructions

Leftover Pizza: Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven, microwave, or skillet. For oven reheating, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. For skillet reheating, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the pizza slices for a few minutes per side, until crispy and warm.

Freezing Pizza Dough: You can freeze the pizza dough for later use. After the first rise, punch down the dough and divide it into portions. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. To thaw, transfer the frozen dough to the refrigerator overnight or let it sit at room temperature for a few hours until softened.

FAQ

Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

A: Yes, you can use instant yeast. You don’t need to activate it in water first. Simply add it to the flour and other dry ingredients.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free pizza dough mix. Follow the instructions on the package for best results.

Q: Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

A: Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought pizza dough is a great option. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before shaping it.

Q: What kind of cheese is best for pizza?

A: Mozzarella is the classic choice for pizza, but you can also use other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or Parmesan. A combination of cheeses can also be delicious.

Q: My pizza crust is soggy. What am I doing wrong?

A: A soggy crust can be caused by a few things: not preheating the oven enough, using too many toppings, or not using a pizza stone. Make sure your oven is fully preheated, don’t overload the toppings, and consider using a pizza stone for a crispier crust.

Conclusion

There you have it! An incredibly easy and delicious homemade pizza recipe that anyone can master. With its simple ingredients, straightforward instructions, and endless customization options, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the perfect slice of homemade pizza, made with love (and without the delivery fees!). Happy pizza making!