Homemade Pepperoni Pizza: Easy Step-by-Step Recipe

Introduction

Homemade pepperoni pizza is a delicious and satisfying dish, perfect for any pizza lover. The base starts with a golden, crispy crust, which you can make from scratch or buy pre-made. The dough is rolled out to your desired thickness and then topped with a rich, savory tomato sauce, seasoned with herbs like oregano and basil for added flavor.

Next comes a generous layer of melted mozzarella cheese, creating a gooey, stretchy texture that pairs perfectly with the toppings. Slices of spicy pepperoni are scattered across the cheese, adding a delightful kick and a hint of smokiness. As the pizza bakes in the oven, the pepperoni crisps up, releasing its oils and creating a deliciously savory aroma.

Once it’s ready, the pizza emerges bubbling and golden, with the cheese perfectly melted and the crust slightly charred. You can finish it with a sprinkle of fresh basil or a dash of red pepper flakes for an extra touch. Each bite offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures, making homemade pepperoni pizza a beloved favorite for family gatherings or a cozy night in.

Why This Pepperoni Pizza is So Delicious:

This homemade pepperoni pizza is made with simple ingredients, but the combination of a chewy crust, tangy sauce, melty cheese, and spicy pepperoni creates a truly delicious meal that everyone will love. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner, a game night with friends, or a family gathering, this pepperoni pizza is guaranteed to satisfy!

Ingredients

• For the Pizza Dough:
  2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
  1 tsp sugar
  1 tsp salt
  1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
  2 tbsp olive oil
• For the Pizza Sauce:
  1 cup canned tomato sauce
  1 tsp garlic powder
  1 tsp dried oregano
  1/2 tsp sugar
  Salt and black pepper, to taste
• For the Toppings:
  2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  100g (about 35 slices) pepperoni
  Fresh basil leaves (optional)
  Red pepper flakes (optional)

Homemade Pepperoni Pizza: Easy Step-by-Step Recipe

Recipe by DianaCourse: PizzaCuisine: Italian AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

12

minutes

Calories

320

kcal

Ingredients

• For the Pizza Dough:
  2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
  1 tsp sugar
  1 tsp salt
  1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
  2 tbsp olive oil

• For the Pizza Sauce:
  1 cup canned tomato sauce
  1 tsp garlic powder
  1 tsp dried oregano
  1/2 tsp sugar
  Salt and black pepper, to taste

• For the Toppings:
  2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  100g (about 35 slices) pepperoni
  Fresh basil leaves (optional)
  Red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

• Prepare the Pizza Dough:
  In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy—this means the yeast is activated and ready to go.
  Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix everything together until it forms a dough.
  Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s smooth and elastic.
  Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
• Make the Pizza Sauce:
  While the dough is rising, make the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine tomato sauce, garlic powder, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper.
  Simmer over low heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, to blend the flavors. Once done, set aside to cool.
• Shape the Dough:
  Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to launch any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into a circle or rectangle, about 12 inches in diameter for a medium-thick crust.
  Transfer the dough to a pizza pan or the preheated pizza stone.
• Assemble the Pizza:
  Spread the prepared tomato sauce lightly over the dough, leaving a small border round the rims for the crus
  Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
  Top with pepperoni slices, spreading them out so each bite has a bit of pepperoni.
• Bake the Pizza:
  Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Finish and Serve:
  Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes before slicing.
  Garnish with fresh basil leaves and red pepper flakes if desired.
  Slice into 6 or 8 pieces and serve hot!

Notes

• Tips for Perfect Pepperoni Pizza:
  Preheat Your Oven Well: Make sure your oven is fully preheated to ensure a crispy crust.
  Stretch the Dough Evenly: Roll out the dough evenly to prevent any thick or thin spots.
  Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add mushrooms, olives, bell peppers, or onions for extra flavor.
  

Mastering the Perfect Pepperoni Pizza Crust

Creating the ideal pizza crust is an art. The key lies in the balance of texture—crispy edges, a chewy interior, and a base sturdy enough to hold toppings. Use high-quality flour, a proper resting period for your dough, and a hot oven to achieve the best results. A pizza stone or steel can elevate the bake by evenly distributing heat. Don’t rush the process; letting the dough rise enhances flavor and texture, giving you that authentic pizzeria feel.

Tips for Shaping the Dough

1. Allow dough to reach room temperature before working.
2. Stretch gently without tearing.
3. Keep the edges thicker for a perfect crust.

Building the Ultimate Flavor with Homemade Sauce

Homemade pizza sauce adds depth and richness to every bite. By simmering tomatoes with garlic, herbs, and olive oil, you create a base that perfectly complements the smoky spice of pepperoni. Opt for fresh or canned tomatoes, and season to taste with salt, pepper, and a hint of sugar for balance. Simmering the sauce allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring every spoonful is packed with taste.

Pro Sauce Hacks

1. Blend the sauce for a smoother consistency.
2. Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
3. Use fresh basil for an aromatic finish.

Tips for Customizing Your Pepperoni Pizza Experience

Pepperoni pizza is a classic, but there’s plenty of room for personalization. Try adding different cheeses like mozzarella, parmesan, or provolone for extra depth. Consider topping with fresh vegetables, mushrooms, or even a drizzle of hot honey for a sweet and spicy twist. Adjust the pepperoni—thin slices for a crispy finish or thick-cut for a meaty bite. You can also experiment with stuffed crusts or flavored doughs for variety.

Creative Add-Ons to Try

1. Drizzle garlic butter on the crust before baking.
2. Add arugula or fresh greens after baking.
3. Sprinkle with chili oil for extra zest.

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Conclusion

Making homemade pepperoni pizza is not just about creating a dish; it’s about crafting an experience. From the perfectly risen crust to the rich, flavorful sauce and customizable toppings, every step allows you to personalize this classic favorite. Whether you stick to tradition or add your own creative flair, each slice is a testament to the love and effort put into its creation. Gather your ingredients, heat the oven, and enjoy the delicious reward of making this iconic pizza from scratch. There’s nothing like the joy of homemade pizza shared with family and friends!