Description
Ultimate Homemade Cheese Pizza
Craving a classic cheesy delight that you can easily whip up at home? This recipe for the Ultimate Homemade Cheese Pizza is perfect for any pizza night! Let’s create that golden, gooey perfection!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
1 tsp sugar
3/4 cup warm water
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce:
1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp dried oregano
For the Topping:
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional: a sprinkle of chili flakes or fresh basil
Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, then knead into a smooth dough (around 8-10 minutes). Cover and let rise for 1 hour.
Make the Sauce:
Mix marinara sauce with garlic powder and oregano in a bowl. Set aside.
Roll Out the Dough:
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle. Place on a greased pizza pan or baking sheet.
Assemble the Pizza:
Spread the prepared sauce evenly over the dough.
Generously top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake to Perfection:
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
Serve & Enjoy:
Let cool for 2 minutes, slice, and serve warm. Add fresh basil or chili flakes for an extra kick!
Pro Tip
For an extra crispy crust, bake the pizza on a preheated pizza stone. Your cheese pizza will have that authentic pizzeria vibe!
Buon appetito!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect results every time. First, ensure your water for the yeast is between 105-110°F; too hot will kill it. After kneading, place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot until doubled in size. While the dough rises, prepare your sauce and grate your cheese from a block for superior melt. When rolling, start from the center and work outwards to maintain an even thickness. For assembly, leave a ½-inch border for the crust. Bake on the middle rack for even heat circulation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your fresh pizza on a wooden board for easy slicing. Pair with a simple side salad of arugula with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a fun appetizer, offer garlic knots or breadsticks with marinara for dipping. A cold, crisp lager or a non-alcoholic sparkling lemonade makes a perfect beverage pairing. Leftover slices reheat wonderfully in a skillet over medium heat for a crispy bottom.
How-to Summary
To make homemade cheese pizza: 1) Activate yeast in warm water with sugar. 2) Mix flour and salt, combine with yeast and oil, then knead into dough. 3) Let dough rise for 1 hour. 4) Mix sauce ingredients. 5) Preheat oven to 475°F. 6) Roll dough into a 12-inch circle. 7) Spread sauce and top with cheeses. 8) Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden. 9) Cool briefly, slice, and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes. After the first rise, punch it down, place it in an oiled container, and refrigerate for up to 48 hours. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before rolling.
What’s the best substitute for active dry yeast? Instant yeast can be used in the same quantity. Simply mix it directly with the flour without needing to proof it in water first.
Why is my crust tough? This is often due to over-kneading or using too much flour when rolling. Knead just until smooth and elastic, and use only enough flour to prevent sticking.
How do I prevent a soggy crust? Avoid over-saucing. Use a thin, even layer. For extra insurance, you can pre-bake the naked crust for 3-4 minutes before adding toppings.
Can I freeze a homemade pizza? Absolutely. Assemble the pizza on parchment paper, freeze it solid on a tray, then wrap tightly. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold water for the yeast, which prevents proper activation.
- Overloading the pizza with sauce and cheese, leading to a soggy, undercooked center.
- Not preheating the oven fully, resulting in a pale, doughy crust.
- Using pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that hinder melting.
- Slicing the pizza immediately after baking, which causes the cheese to slide off.
Conclusion
Mastering the ultimate homemade cheese pizza is a rewarding culinary skill that brings the joy of a pizzeria right to your kitchen. By focusing on a few key techniques—proper dough handling, balanced saucing, and high-heat baking—you can consistently achieve a golden, crispy crust with perfectly melted, gooey cheese. This recipe provides a fantastic foundation from which you can explore endless variations. Remember, great pizza is about quality ingredients and a bit of practice. So fire up that oven, gather your favorite people, and enjoy the delicious, cheesy fruits of your labor.