Pizza is a beloved dish enjoyed by people all over the world. While there are countless variations of pizza, there’s something special about a good old fashioned homemade pizza. Making pizza from scratch allows you to customize the ingredients and flavors to your liking, and it’s a fun activity to do with friends and family.

To make a good old fashioned homemade pizza, the crust is key. A crispy yet chewy crust is the foundation for a delicious pizza. There are many different crust recipes out there, from thin and crispy to thick and doughy. Finding the perfect crust recipe for your taste preferences may take some experimentation, but it’s worth it in the end. Once you have your crust, the toppings are up to you. From classic pepperoni and cheese to unique combinations like fig and prosciutto, the possibilities are endless.

The Basics of Homemade Pizza

Making a homemade pizza is a fun and rewarding experience that can be enjoyed by anyone. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, there are a few basics to keep in mind when making your own pizza.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

The first step in making a great homemade pizza is choosing the right ingredients. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Flour: Choose a high-quality flour that is specifically designed for pizza dough. Look for flour that is unbleached and unbromated, as these chemicals can affect the texture and flavor of your dough.
• Yeast: Use active dry yeast or instant yeast for your pizza dough. Make sure the yeast is fresh and hasn’t expired.
• Tomato sauce: Choose a high-quality tomato sauce or make your own from fresh tomatoes. Look for sauce that is free from added sugars and preservatives.
• Cheese: Use a high-quality cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella or provolone. Avoid using pre-shredded cheese, as it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of your pizza.
• Toppings: Choose fresh, high-quality toppings that complement each other. Some popular toppings include pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, peppers, and olives.

Understanding the Process

Making a homemade pizza involves several steps, including preparing the dough, adding the toppings, and baking the pizza. Here’s a basic overview of the process:

1. Prepare the dough: Mix together flour, yeast, salt, and water to make the dough. Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic, then let it rise for at least an hour.
2. Roll out the dough: Use a rolling pin to roll out the dough into a thin circle or rectangle. Place the dough on a pizza stone or baking sheet.
3. Add the sauce and toppings: Spread the tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Add your desired toppings, making sure not to overload the pizza.
4. Bake the pizza: Preheat your oven to 450°F and bake the pizza for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

By following these basic guidelines, anyone can make a delicious homemade pizza that is sure to impress. So grab your apron and get ready to create your own masterpiece!

Creating the Dough

Ingredients

To create the perfect old-fashioned pizza dough, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 ¼ oz. packet of active dry yeast
• Just under four cups of all-purpose flour (keep a little extra for rolling out the dough)
• One tablespoon of kosher salt (you can use regular table salt if that’s what you have on hand)
• Three tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil

Preparation

1. In a small bowl, mix warm water and one teaspoon of sugar. Add yeast and whisk until dissolved. Let stand until bubbles form on the surface.
2. In a large bowl, whisk three cups of flour, salt, remaining one teaspoon of sugar, and, if desired, dried herbs.
3. Make a well in the center of the mixture and add the yeast mixture and oil. Stir until smooth.
4. Add enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, which usually takes about an hour.
7. Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal parts. Roll each part into a ball and let it rest for about 15 minutes before rolling it out into the desired shape.

By following these simple steps, you can create a delicious and authentic old-fashioned pizza dough that will impress your family and friends.

Preparing the Sauce

Ingredients

The key to a delicious homemade pizza is a good sauce. Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make a classic pizza sauce:

• 1 can (28 oz) of crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

Cooking Method

1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the crushed tomatoes, olive oil, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Spread the sauce evenly onto the pizza crust, leaving about 1/2 inch around the edges for the crust to puff up.
3. Add your desired toppings, such as cheese, vegetables, or meats.
4. Bake your pizza in a preheated oven at 425°F for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

It’s important to note that the sauce can be adjusted to your personal taste. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can add a pinch of sugar. For a spicier sauce, add some red pepper flakes. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find the perfect sauce for your homemade pizza.

Topping Selection and Preparation

Choosing Your Toppings

The toppings on a pizza can make or break the entire dish. When choosing toppings, consider the flavor profile you want to achieve and the texture of the toppings. Here are some classic pizza toppings to consider:

• Pepperoni
• Mushrooms
• Onions
• Olives
• Bell peppers
• Sausage
• Pineapple
• Ham
• Bacon
• Spinach
• Artichoke hearts
• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Basil
• Garlic

Of course, you can mix and match toppings to create your own unique pizza. Keep in mind that some toppings, such as fresh herbs and delicate vegetables, should be added after the pizza has finished baking to avoid burning.

Preparing Your Toppings

Properly preparing your toppings can make a big difference in the final product. Here are some tips for preparing toppings:

• Meats: Cook meats before adding them to the pizza. This will ensure that they are fully cooked and will not release excess moisture onto the pizza.
• Vegetables: Cut vegetables into small pieces to ensure even cooking. If using watery vegetables, such as tomatoes, remove the seeds and excess liquid to prevent a soggy crust.
• Cheese: Grate cheese fresh for the best flavor and texture. Avoid using pre-shredded cheese, as it contains anti-caking agents that can affect the melt and flavor.
• Herbs: Use fresh herbs whenever possible. Dried herbs can be used, but they should be added sparingly as they can be overpowering.

By choosing and preparing your toppings carefully, you can create a delicious homemade pizza that is sure to impress.

Assembling and Baking the Pizza

Assembly Steps

To assemble the pizza, start by positioning a rack in the bottom third of the oven and preheating the oven to 500°F. Then, add the olive oil to a grandma-style pizza pan or an 18″ x 13″ baking sheet and spread it around to coat the pan. It’s best to use a dark pan for this recipe to achieve pizza with a crispy bottom and edges.

Next, roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to the size of the pan. Transfer the dough to the pan and use your fingers to press it out to the edges. If the dough springs back, let it rest for a few minutes and then continue pressing it out.

Spread the pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Add your desired toppings, such as shredded cheese, pepperoni, and vegetables. Be careful not to overload the pizza with too many toppings, as this can result in a soggy crust.

Baking Instructions

Once the pizza is assembled, place it in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on the pizza while it bakes to ensure that it doesn’t burn.

When the pizza is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade pizza!

Serving Suggestions

Once your homemade pizza is ready, it’s time to serve it up! Here are a few serving suggestions to make your pizza experience even better:

1. Cut it up

Before serving, use a pizza cutter or a sharp knife to slice the pizza into individual pieces. For a traditional round pizza, slice it into wedges. For a rectangular pizza, slice it into squares or rectangles.

2. Add some greens

To balance out the richness of the pizza, consider serving it with a side salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a great option. You could also try a Caesar salad or a Greek salad.

3. Pair it with a beverage

Pizza is a classic comfort food, and it pairs well with a variety of beverages. Beer is a popular choice, but you could also try wine, soda, or even iced tea.

4. Customize it

One of the great things about homemade pizza is that you can customize it to your liking. If you’re serving a group, consider setting out a variety of toppings and letting everyone create their own mini pizza. This is a fun and interactive way to enjoy pizza with friends and family.

5. Save some for later

If you have leftover pizza, don’t throw it away! Pizza can be reheated in the oven or microwave and enjoyed for another meal. Plus, cold pizza makes a great breakfast the next day.

By following these serving suggestions, you can elevate your homemade pizza experience and enjoy it to the fullest.

Conclusion

In conclusion, making homemade pizza is a fun and rewarding experience that can result in delicious and personalized creations. With the right ingredients and techniques, anyone can create a mouth-watering pizza that rivals those from their favorite pizzeria.

First and foremost, it’s important to start with a good crust. Whether you prefer a thin and crispy crust or a thick and chewy one, there are many recipes available to suit your taste. Some recipes call for yeast, while others use baking powder or self-rising flour. Experiment with different types of flour and rising agents to find the perfect crust for you.

Next, choose your toppings wisely. Classic toppings like tomato sauce, cheese, and pepperoni are always a crowd-pleaser, but don’t be afraid to get creative. Add some veggies like bell peppers or onions for a healthier option, or try some unique toppings like pineapple or BBQ chicken for a twist on traditional pizza.

Finally, don’t forget about the cooking process. Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature and use a pizza stone or baking sheet to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on your pizza as it cooks and remove it from the oven when the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Overall, making homemade pizza is a fun and delicious way to bring family and friends together. With a little practice and experimentation, anyone can become a pizza-making pro.