Classic Pepperoni Pizza: The Ultimate Homemade Recipe

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Classic Pepperoni Pizza: The Ultimate Homemade Recipe

Prep Time, Cook Time, and Servings

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour for dough rising)
  • Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Servings: 8 slices
  • Calories: 285 kcal per slice

Course and Cuisine

  • Course: Main Dish
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

For the Homemade Pizza Dough:

  • 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water (110°F)
  • 2½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Classic Pizza Sauce:

  • 1 cup canned tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil

For the Toppings:

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 25–30 slices pepperoni
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)

Equipment Needed

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or stand mixer with dough hook
  • Rolling pin
  • Pizza stone or baking sheet
  • Pizza cutter or sharp knife

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

  1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and active dry yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Stir in the sugar, salt, and olive oil.
  3. Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Transfer dough to a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a damp towel and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

  1. In a small saucepan, combine all sauce ingredients.
  2. Simmer over low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to let the flavors meld.
  3. Set aside to cool slightly before spreading on the dough.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza

  1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
  2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle.
  3. Place the rolled dough on a pizza stone or lightly greased baking sheet.
  4. Spread an even layer of prepared sauce over the crust.
  5. Top with mozzarella cheese and arrange pepperoni slices evenly.
  6. Sprinkle optional toppings for extra flavor and texture.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

  1. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
  2. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  3. Slice, serve, and enjoy while hot!

Recipe Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños and crushed red pepper flakes for heat lovers.
  • Veggie Option: Replace pepper

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