pepperoni pizza recipe

Homemade Pepperoni Pizza: Easy Step-by-Step Recipe

ByDiana
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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!

Homemade Pepperoni Pizza: Easy Step-by-Step Recipe
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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.
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