Homemade Pizza: Simple, Cheesy & Family Favorite
Nothing brings the family together like the aroma of fresh dough and bubbling cheese. This recipe focuses on a foolproof method that is light on the wallet but heavy on flavor. From the perfect rise to the final bake, you’ll see why this has become a household staple.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Budget-Friendly: Uses basic ingredients like flour, yeast, and standard pantry spices.
- Family Interactive: Let the kids help with the dough and choose their own toppings.
- Better Than Delivery: Control the thickness of your crust and the quality of your cheese for a superior slice.
The Pizza Process
| Stage | What to Expect |
| The Dough | A simple mix of flour, water, and yeast that comes together into a smooth, elastic ball. |
| The Rise | Allowing the dough to rest in a warm spot until it doubles in size for a light, airy crust. |
| The Shape | Hand-stretching or rolling the dough to your desired thickness on a floured surface. |
| The Sauce | A savory red sauce base spread evenly across the dough, leaving room for the crust. |
| The Cheese | A generous layer of shredded mozzarella or your favorite melty cheese blend. |
| The Bake | High-heat cooking until the crust is golden-brown and the cheese is perfectly blistered. |
Instructions
1. Master the Dough
Mix your dry ingredients with warm water and a splash of oil until a cohesive dough forms. Knead until the dough is no longer sticky and feels smooth to the touch.
2. Let It Rise
Place your dough ball in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Allow it to sit in a warm, draft-free area until it has significantly expanded.
3. Shape and Stretch
Gently press the air out of the risen dough. On a floured board or pizza stone, use your hands to stretch the dough into a circle, working from the center outward to create a raised edge for the crust.
4. Sauce and Cheese
Ladle your pizza sauce into the center and use the back of a spoon to spread it in a circular motion toward the edges. Sprinkle a thick layer of shredded cheese over the sauce.
5. Personalize Your Toppings
This is where the fun begins! Add classic pepperoni, fresh basil, black olives, or colorful tomatoes to suit your family’s taste.
6. The Final Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at high heat (usually 425°F to 450°F) until the edges are crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Pro-Tips for Success
- Don’t Over-Sauce: Too much sauce can lead to a soggy middle; keep it thin and even.
- Hot Surface: For the crispest bottom, preheat your pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven before sliding the pizza on.
- Fresh Herbs: Add fresh basil or oregano after the pizza comes out of the oven to preserve their bright color and flavor.
