Perfect Homemade Pizza Recipe

There’s something deeply satisfying about making pizza from scratch. The smell of fresh dough baking, the bubbling cheese, and the simple joy of slicing into a pizza you made yourself never gets old. This Perfect Homemade Pizza Recipe is designed to be approachable, reliable, and full of classic flavor. The dough is soft on the inside with a lightly crisp edge, the sauce is balanced and aromatic, and the toppings are completely customizable. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe gives you a solid foundation for great homemade pizza every time.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Resting Time: 45 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Ingredients

For the Dough

All-purpose flour: 2 cups

Salt: 1 teaspoon

Sugar: 1 teaspoon

Instant yeast: 1 tablespoon

Warm water: 3/4 cup

Olive oil: 2 tablespoons

For the Sauce

Tomato sauce: 1 cup

Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon

Dried basil: 1 teaspoon

Garlic: 1 clove, minced

Salt: to taste

Black pepper: to taste

For the Toppings

Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1 1/2 cups

Black olives: 1/4 cup, sliced (optional)

Bell peppers: 1/2 cup, sliced (optional)

Onion: 1/4 cup, thinly sliced (optional)

Instructions

In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast until evenly combined.

Add warm water and olive oil, then mix until a soft dough forms.

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 45 minutes or until doubled in size.

While the dough rises, prepare the sauce by combining tomato sauce, oregano, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Set aside.

Preheat the oven to 230°C (450°F) and place a baking tray or pizza stone inside to heat.

Punch down the risen dough and roll or stretch it into a 10 to 12-inch round.

Carefully transfer the dough to the hot baking tray or a parchment-lined tray. Spread sauce evenly over the surface.

Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly, then add your desired toppings.

Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Tips

Use warm, not hot, water to activate the yeast properly.

Knead the dough until it springs back when lightly pressed.

Letting the dough rise fully improves texture and flavor.

Preheating the baking tray helps create a crisp base.

Do not overload the pizza with sauce or toppings.

Stretch the dough gently to avoid tearing.

Use parchment paper for easy transfer and cleanup.

Let pizza cool briefly before slicing to keep toppings in place.

Brush crust edges with olive oil for extra flavor.

Bake on the lowest rack for a crispier bottom if needed.

Variations

Add whole wheat flour for a nuttier crust.

Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture.

Make it spicy with chili flakes or jalapeños.

Add mushrooms, corn, or spinach for more vegetables.

Replace tomato sauce with pesto or white sauce.

Add cooked chicken or beef for extra protein.

Sprinkle Parmesan or cheddar for a cheese blend.

Use garlic butter on the crust for added richness.

Make mini pizzas for kids or parties.

Add fresh basil after baking for a classic finish.

Q & A

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours.

Can I freeze pizza dough?
Yes, freeze after the first rise for up to 2 months.

What flour works best?
All-purpose flour works perfectly for this recipe.

Can I use active dry yeast?
Yes, activate it in warm water with sugar before mixing.

Why is my crust hard?
Overbaking or too much flour can cause dryness.

Can I bake without a pizza stone?
Yes, a preheated baking tray works well.

How do I get a crisp crust?
Bake at high heat and avoid excess sauce.

Can I make it vegan?
Use dairy-free cheese and skip meat toppings.

How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

What’s the best way to reheat pizza?
Reheat in a skillet or oven for best texture.

Nutrition

(Approximate Per Slice)

Calories: 260

Carbohydrates: 34 g

Protein: 10 g

Fat: 9 g

Fiber: 2 g

Conclusion

This Perfect Homemade Pizza Recipe gives you a dependable base for endless pizza nights at home. With simple ingredients, clear steps, and flexible topping options, it’s easy to make and even easier to love. Once you master this version, you’ll find yourself skipping takeout and enjoying fresh, homemade pizza whenever the craving hits.