Print

The Ultimate Easy Homemade Pizza with Chewy Crust and Quick Sauce

Close-up of a thick, airy slice of homemade pizza showing the fluffy crust, bright red sauce, and melted cheese.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make restaurant-quality homemade pizza from scratch using this simple recipe for a chewy crust and a fast, flavorful sauce. This guide is perfect for beginners and family pizza night.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (105-115°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for bowl
  • 1 (15 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Your choice of toppings (e.g., pepperoni, mushrooms)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix the dough: Add the flour, salt, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5 to 7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  4. First rise: Lightly oil a clean bowl. Place the dough in the bowl and turn to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 60 to 90 minutes, or until doubled in size.
  5. Make the quick sauce: While the dough rises, combine the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Stir well. Set aside.
  6. Preheat the oven: Place a pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven and preheat to 475°F (245°C). Allow the stone or sheet to heat for at least 30 minutes.
  7. Shape the crust: Punch down the risen dough. Divide it in half (for two medium pizzas). On a lightly floured surface, stretch or roll one half into a 12-inch circle or desired shape.
  8. Assemble the pizza: Carefully transfer the dough to a piece of parchment paper dusted with cornmeal. Spread half of the sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Top with half of the mozzarella cheese and your desired toppings.
  9. Bake the pizza: Slide the parchment paper with the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
  10. Finish and serve: Remove the pizza from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Repeat with the remaining dough and toppings.

Notes

  • For a crispier crust, bake the dough plain for 5 minutes before adding sauce and toppings.
  • If you want a chewier crust, let the dough rest for 24 hours in the refrigerator after the first rise.
  • Use high-CPC phrases like ‘best homemade pizza recipe’ when sharing this recipe online.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://mdlatdmm.com/homemade-pizza-best-recipe-chewy-crust/