This recipe guides you through making a classic pizza pie at home, featuring a crisp yet chewy crust, a tangy tomato sauce, melted cheese, and your choice of toppings. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a fun cooking project. Customize it with your favorite flavors and enjoy a fresh, homemade meal. This pizza is made with simple ingredients.
For the Dough:
3 cups (380g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
1 teaspoon (5g) active dry yeast
1 teaspoon (5g) salt
1 cup (240ml) warm water
2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
For the Sauce:
1 (14-ounce) can (400g) crushed tomatoes
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon (5ml) dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) dried basil
1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) salt
1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) black pepper
1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
For the Toppings:
8 ounces (225g) mozzarella cheese, shredded
Your choice of toppings (pepperoni, sausage, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, etc.)
Make the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the warm water and yeast. Let it stand for 5 minutes. Add the olive oil, salt, and flour. Mix until a dough forms.
Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning once to coat. Cover and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled.
Prepare the Sauce: While the dough is rising, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Preheat Oven and Prepare Pizza Stone: Preheat your oven to 475°F (250°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.
Shape the Dough: Punch down the dough. Divide it in half if you prefer two smaller pizzas. On a lightly floured surface, roll or stretch the dough into a 12-inch circle.
Assemble the Pizza: Carefully transfer the dough to a pizza peel or baking sheet. Spread the sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border. Sprinkle the cheese over the sauce. Then, add your desired toppings.
Bake: If using a pizza stone, slide the pizza onto the hot stone. If using a baking sheet, place it in the oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Let the pizza pie cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Dough Options: You can use store-bought pizza dough if you prefer. Ensure it is fresh.
Sauce Variations: For a richer sauce, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. Fresh basil can be added in the end.
Cheese Choice: Feel free to use a blend of cheeses, like mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan. Adding different cheeses will change the flavor.
Topping Ideas: Consider using fresh basil, mushrooms, onions, peppers or prosciutto. Use whatever vegetables you have available.
Baking Tips: If you don’t have a pizza stone, a baking sheet works fine. Using parchment paper prevents sticking.
Rising Time: The dough may take longer to rise, depending on room temperature. Make sure your yeast is fresh and the water is warm.
Fresh Ingredients: Freshness is key to a better pizza!
Oven Temperature: Oven temps may vary so adjust baking time as needed. It’s best to bake at the recommended temp to achieve a good crust.
Serving: Serve hot for the best experience. Sprinkle with some red pepper flakes for some extra heat.
Find it online: https://www.orchardrecipes.com/all-about-pizza-pie/