Nothing quite says cozy night in like a freshly baked pizza straight out of the oven. The aroma of bubbling cheese, savory toppings, and warm dough is enough to make anyone’s stomach rumble. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together with friends or simply craving a homemade meal, this baked pizza recipe is sure to be a hit. With a crispy crust, gooey cheese, and your favorite toppings, it’s a classic dish that never fails to please. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get baking!
**Homemade Baked Pizza**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 ½ cups warm water
– 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– Your favorite toppings (e.g., pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dough:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast activates and becomes foamy. This step ensures your dough will rise properly.
2. **Mix the Dough:** Add the flour, olive oil, and salt to the yeast mixture. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix everything together until a shaggy dough forms. Then, transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. **Let it Rise:** Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size. This allows the dough to develop flavor and texture.
4. **Preheat the Oven:** While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up as well. A hot oven and preheated stone will give your pizza a crispy crust.
5. **Shape the Dough:** Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into your desired pizza shape, whether round or rectangular. Make sure to leave the edges slightly thicker to form a crust.
6. **Top Your Pizza:** Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a border for the crust. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, then add your favorite toppings. Be creative and generous with your toppings to create a flavorful pizza.
7. **Bake Your Pizza:** Carefully transfer the topped pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or a baking sheet. Bake in the oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
8. **Serve and Enjoy:** Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade baked pizza with your favorite beverage or side salad.
Homemade baked pizza is a versatile and comforting dish that you can customize to your liking. Whether you prefer classic pepperoni and cheese or a gourmet combination of toppings, this recipe allows you to unleash your creativity in the kitchen. So, next time you’re craving a slice of pizza, skip the delivery and try making your own delicious creation at home. Happy baking!
