classic homemade pizza recipe 🍕

 Here’s a classic homemade pizza recipe 

🍕 Homemade Pizza Recipe

🧂 Ingredients:

For the Dough:

2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast

1 ½ cups warm water (110°F / 45°C)

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp sugar

1 tsp salt

For the Pizza Sauce:

1 cup canned crushed tomatoes (or tomato puree)

1 tbsp olive oil

1 clove garlic, minced

½ tsp dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings (customizable):

1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Pepperoni slices, mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, onions, etc.

Fresh basil (optional)

👨‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Make the Dough:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.

2. In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil.

3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

4. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.

3. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes. Let it cool.

3. Assemble the Pizza:

1. Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a pizza stone or baking tray inside to heat.

2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.

3. Place dough on a pizza peel or parchment paper.

4. Spread sauce over the dough. Add cheese and toppings of your choice.

4. Bake:

1. Transfer pizza to the hot stone or tray.

2. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.

✅ Tips:

For a crispier crust, pre-bake the dough for 3–4 minutes before adding toppings.

Add fresh basil after baking for best flavor.