Are you craving pizza but short on time? Making homemade pizza can be a fun and delightful experience, not to mention incredibly satisfying when you taste the results. Here's a simple yet delicious easy pizza recipe that will have you enjoying cheesy, crusty goodness in less than an hour.
Ingredients
Before we get started, let’s gather all our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup of warm water (about 110°F or 45°C)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Pizza sauce or Marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Your favorite toppings
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
First, activate the yeast. Pour the warm water into a large bowl, mix in the sugar, and then sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes frothy:
- In another bowl, combine the flour with the salt.
- Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add the olive oil to it, then gradually mix in the flour-salt mixture. Stir until the dough begins to come together.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough back in the bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for about 20 minutes in a warm area.
📝 Note: If you are in a hurry, you can skip the rising process, but the crust might be slightly denser.
Step 2: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Toppings
While your dough is rising, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). This is also the perfect time to prepare your toppings:
- Slice or dice vegetables.
- Cook any meats if necessary.
- Have your cheese and sauce ready.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
After rising, gently punch down the dough to release the air. On a floured surface, roll it out to your desired thickness. Remember, a thicker crust will require a bit more cooking time.
Step 4: Assemble Your Pizza
Transfer your rolled dough to a baking sheet or pizza stone:
- Spread a generous amount of sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edge for the crust.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the sauce.
- Add your toppings of choice. Here are some popular options:
- Pepperoni
- Onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms
- Spinach and feta
- Olives and capers
- Drizzle with a little olive oil for extra flavor and shine.
Cooking
Bake the pizza in the preheated oven:
- For a thinner crust, cook for about 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, with some golden brown spots.
- For a thicker crust, it might take 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
🔥 Note: Every oven is different, so adjust cooking time accordingly. Look for a golden crust and bubbly cheese as your cues.
Enjoying Your Pizza
Once baked, remove your pizza from the oven. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy your homemade pizza fresh out of the oven for the best flavor and texture.
By following this simple recipe, you've created not just a meal but an experience, from the kneading of the dough to the joy of sharing it with family or friends. This easy pizza recipe isn't just about convenience; it’s also about the pride of knowing exactly what goes into your food, tailoring it to your taste, and experimenting with different toppings. Whether it's a quiet night in or a group gathering, this homemade pizza will be a hit.
What if my dough doesn’t rise?
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Ensure the water is at the correct temperature (110°F or 45°C). If it’s too hot or too cold, the yeast won’t activate. Also, make sure your yeast is fresh and the environment is warm enough for rising.
Can I make the dough in advance?
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Yes, you can make the dough in advance. After kneading, place it in an oiled bowl, cover it, and refrigerate. Use it within 24 hours, letting it come to room temperature before rolling out.
What’s the best way to store leftover pizza?
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The best way to store leftover pizza is in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also wrap individual slices in plastic wrap for a quick grab-and-go option. Reheat in a pan or oven for best results.
