Pizza Recipe

Prepare Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast with 1 1/2 cups of warm water (110°F/45°C). Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Add 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix until a dough forms. Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Prepare Sauce

While the dough is rising, prepare the pizza sauce. In a saucepan, combine 1 can (15 ounces) of crushed tomatoes, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Let it cool.

Preheat Oven

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

Shape Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. Divide the dough into 2 equal portions. Roll out each portion on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness.

Assemble Pizza

Transfer the rolled dough to a pizza peel or baking sheet. Spread a layer of the prepared sauce over the dough, leaving about 1/2 inch of the edge bare. Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. Add desired toppings such as pepperoni, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or olives.

Bake Pizza

Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Serve

Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly. Slice and serve hot.