Introduction

Pizza is a beloved dish worldwide, and there’s nothing quite like a homemade pepperoni pizza. This recipe combines a crispy crust, rich tomato sauce, gooey cheese, and savory pepperoni for a comforting meal. Whether you’re hosting a family movie night or just craving a slice, this easy-to-follow recipe will have you enjoying delicious pizza in no time.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Pizza Dough
– 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1 ½ cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil

Pizza Sauce
– 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Toppings
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup sliced pepperoni

Prep Time

The total prep time for this pepperoni pizza recipe is approximately 15 minutes. This includes mixing the dough and preparing the sauce.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Yield: This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it perfect for sharing. Enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness of your homemade pizza!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy. Add olive oil and salt. Gradually stir in flour until a dough forms. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.

Prepare the Sauce

In a medium saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes, olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, and salt. Simmer over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you are using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat as well.

Shape the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a circle or rectangle, depending on your preference. Transfer the rolled dough to a pizza peel or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Assemble the Pizza

Spread a generous layer of the prepared sauce over the dough. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly on top, followed by slices of pepperoni. Add any additional toppings as desired.

Bake the Pizza

Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Cool and Serve

Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice into pieces and serve warm.

Notes

Storage

Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Pizza can be frozen before baking. Assemble the pizza, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Adjusting Toppings

Feel free to customize your pizza with different toppings like vegetables, different cheese, or meats according to your preference.

Gluten-Free Option

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to follow the specific blending ratios for the best results.

Cook techniques

Making the Dough

To create a perfect pizza crust, it is essential to mix the dough ingredients until a smooth and elastic texture is achieved. This can typically be done by hand or with a stand mixer.

Stretching the Dough

After the dough has risen, gently punch it down and let it rest before stretching it into a round pizza shape. Use your hands or a rolling pin, but avoid overworking it to maintain a fluffy crust.

Preheating the Oven

For optimal baking, preheat your oven to a high temperature, ideally around 475°F (245°C) or higher. This helps achieve a crispy crust while allowing the toppings to cook thoroughly.

Assembling the Pizza

Start by spreading a thin layer of sauce evenly over the stretched dough. Next, sprinkle cheese and arrange your toppings to ensure even distribution.

Baking the Pizza

Carefully transfer the assembled pizza to the preheated oven. Bake until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned, usually around 10-15 minutes.

Slicing and Serving

Once baked, allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing it into wedges. This helps the cheese set a bit and makes for cleaner cuts.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, store-bought pizza dough is a convenient option and can still yield delicious results.

How can I make the crust crispy?

To achieve a crispy crust, make sure your oven is properly preheated and consider using a pizza stone or baking steel.

What type of cheese is best for pizza?

Mozzarella cheese is the traditional choice, but you can also combine it with provolone, cheddar, or parmesan for added flavor.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftover pizza. Wrap it tightly and store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months.

What are some good toppings for pepperoni pizza?

In addition to pepperoni, consider adding mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, olives, or even extra cheese for added flavor and texture.

Conclusion

The homemade pepperoni pizza recipe is a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of savory pepperoni and gooey cheese with a perfectly baked crust. It’s a dish that brings family and friends together, perfect for a cozy night in or a fun gathering. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious pizza that rivals your favorite pizzeria.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Veggie Lover’s Pizza

Load your pizza with an array of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and olives for a fresh and vibrant twist.

BBQ Chicken Pizza

Swap out the traditional tomato sauce for tangy BBQ sauce and top with grilled chicken, red onions, and cilantro for a smoky flavor.

Margherita Pizza

Keep it simple and classic with fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves for a taste of Italy.

Buffalo Chicken Pizza

Using spicy buffalo sauce with shredded chicken and topped with blue cheese and green onions for a kick of flavor.

Four Cheese Pizza

Indulge in a mix of four cheeses such as mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan, and gorgonzola for a cheesy, rich experience.

Pesto Pizza

Use pesto sauce instead of traditional tomato sauce and top with artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair.

Hawaiian Pizza

Combine sweet and savory by adding pineapple and ham on your pizza for a tropical taste.

Breakfast Pizza

Top your pizza with scrambled eggs, cheese, crispy bacon, and veggies for a hearty breakfast option.