Homemade Pepperoni Pizza

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked pizza wafting through your home. The Homemade Pepperoni Pizza is my go-to dish when I want to bring friends and family together for a cozy night in. I remember the first time I made it; dough flying everywhere, laughter echoing in the kitchen, and the anticipation of digging into that cheesy, saucy slice. It’s not just about the taste; it’s the experience of creating something delicious from scratch. From mixing the dough to watching it rise, every step is filled with joy. My family eagerly awaits the moment when that hot pizza comes out of the oven, golden and bubbly, ready to be devoured.

Everything You Need for Homemade Pepperoni Pizza

Creating the perfect pizza starts with the right ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that delightful combination of flavors and textures. The key players in this classic recipe are all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, and mozzarella cheese. When these ingredients come together, they create a harmonious balance that sets the foundation for a truly exceptional pizza.

• 1.5 cups warm tap water: Essential for activating the yeast, this forms the base of your dough.
• 1.5 teaspoons granulated sugar: This helps feed the yeast, resulting in a well-risen dough.
• 1.5 teaspoons active dry yeast: The magic ingredient that makes the dough rise, creating a light and fluffy crust.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable or canola oil: Adds moisture to the dough and helps it remain tender.
• 4 cups all-purpose flour: The main structural component of the dough, providing necessary strength.
• Oil for greasing pans: Prevents the pizza from sticking and helps achieve a golden crust.
• Cornmeal for dusting pans: Adds a lovely texture and prevents sticking while baking.
• 2 cups pizza sauce or spaghetti sauce: The flavorful base that brings everything together.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The quintessential pizza cheese that melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture.
• ½ cup chopped green peppers: Adds a sweet crunch to balance the richness of the cheese.
• ½ cup chopped yellow onion: Provides a savory depth of flavor.
• 25 slices pepperoni: The classic pizza topping that offers a spicy, savory kick.
• ½ cup sliced mushrooms: Adds an earthy flavor that complements the other toppings.
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted: For brushing the crust to enhance flavor and achieve a golden exterior.
• 2 tablespoons yellow cornmeal: Used to sprinkle on the pizza pan for added texture.

The Process for Making Homemade Pepperoni Pizza

Making a Homemade Pepperoni Pizza is a delightful journey that brings joy from start to finish. It’s a chance to engage with your food and enjoy the process. Follow these detailed steps for a pizza that will impress!

1. Start by combining water and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. This creates a sweet environment for the yeast to thrive.
2. Next, sprinkle yeast over the water mixture. Gently stir a few times and let it sit for about five minutes. You should see bubbles forming, indicating that the yeast is active.
3. Add two cups of flour to the bubbly mixture along with a pinch of salt. Mix with a wooden spoon until everything is well combined, forming a sticky dough.
4. Pour in the vegetable oil and mix it in thoroughly. This will add moisture and flavor to your dough.
5. Gradually add the remaining flour, one third of a cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. You’re aiming for a dough that pulls away from the bowl and is not overly sticky.
6. Once the dough is ready, transfer it onto a floured surface. Knead it for about five to seven minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You’re looking for a dough that springs back when lightly pressed.
7. Place the kneaded dough into a large, oiled bowl. Cover it with a kitchen towel and place it in a warm, draft-free space. Allow it to rise until it doubles in size, which should take about one hour.
8. While the dough is rising, prepare your pizza pans. Lightly grease them with oil and sprinkle cornmeal on top to create a non-stick surface.
9. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Transfer it back onto the floured surface, and divide it into two equal pieces.
10. Roll out one piece of dough into a circle that matches the size of your pizza pan. Carefully stretch the dough to fit, ensuring the edges are slightly thicker.
11. Preheat your oven to 420 degrees Fahrenheit. This high heat will ensure a beautifully baked crust.
12. Before baking, place the pizza dough in the oven for seven minutes. This pre-baking step helps to set the crust.
13. Brush the sides of the pizza with melted butter and sprinkle with one tablespoon of cornmeal for added flavor.
14. Spread one cup of pizza sauce evenly over the pre-baked dough, then layer on your toppings: pepperoni, onion, green pepper, mozzarella cheese, mushrooms, and any other favorites.
15. Bake the pizza for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges. The smell will be irresistible!
16. Once baked, repeat the same process for the second pizza with the remaining dough and toppings.

Making Adjustments

When it comes to the Homemade Pepperoni Pizza, there’s always room for adjustments based on personal taste. Here are some tips to help you customize your pizza experience:

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should last for up to three days.
• Freezing: Leftover pizza can be frozen. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months.
• Pairing: Serve your pizza with a fresh side salad or garlic bread to enhance your meal.
• Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer a spicier pizza, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the top before baking.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese like provolone or gouda for a unique flavor profile.

Serve This Homemade Pepperoni Pizza With

The beauty of a Homemade Pepperoni Pizza lies not just in its deliciousness but also in its versatility when it comes to serving. Here are some great ideas:

• Side Salads: Pair your pizza with a crisp Caesar or garden salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Garlic Bread: A side of warm garlic bread complements the flavors wonderfully.
• Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted or grilled vegetables make a delightful side dish.
• Special Occasions: Serve it during family gatherings, parties, or even casual weeknight dinners to create a festive atmosphere.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge for easy reheating. Just pop it in the oven for a few minutes to crisp it up again.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Homemade Pepperoni Pizza is truly a standout dish that brings comfort and joy to any gathering. From the delightful aroma of the baking crust to the melty cheese and savory toppings, it’s an experience worth trying. I encourage you to make this pizza tonight and enjoy the process of bringing your loved ones together over something delicious. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a chance to create cherished memories with every slice.

Homemade Pepperoni Pizza

The ultimate comfort food, this Homemade Pepperoni Pizza is cheesy, crispy, and easy to make! Perfect for family dinners or game nights, you’ll love the fresh toppings and delightful crust. Make it tonight and satisfy your pizza cravings!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 hour hr 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 19 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 44 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Italian

Servings 8 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Oven
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Wooden Spoon
• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 cups Warm Tap Water
• 1.5 teaspoons Granulated Sugar
• 1.5 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast I used Red Star Yeast
• 1 tablespoon Vegetable or Canola Oil
• 4 cups All-Purpose Flour
• Oil For Greasing Pans
• Cornmeal For Dusting Pans
• 2 cups Pizza Sauce or Spaghetti Sauce
• 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
• ½ cup Chopped Green Peppers
• ½ cup Chopped Yellow Onion
• 25 slices Pepperoni
• ½ cup Sliced Mushrooms
• 2 tablespoons Butter Melted
• 2 tablespoons Yellow Cornmeal

Instructions

 

• Start by combining water and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. This creates a sweet environment for the yeast to thrive.
• Next, sprinkle yeast over the water mixture. Gently stir a few times and let it sit for about five minutes. You should see bubbles forming, indicating that the yeast is active.
• Add two cups of flour to the bubbly mixture along with a pinch of salt. Mix with a wooden spoon until everything is well combined, forming a sticky dough.
• Pour in the vegetable oil and mix it in thoroughly. This will add moisture and flavor to your dough.
• Gradually add the remaining flour, one third of a cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. You’re aiming for a dough that pulls away from the bowl and is not overly sticky.
• Once the dough is ready, transfer it onto a floured surface. Knead it for about five to seven minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You’re looking for a dough that springs back when lightly pressed.
• Place the kneaded dough into a large, oiled bowl. Cover it with a kitchen towel and place it in a warm, draft-free space. Allow it to rise until it doubles in size, which should take about one hour.
• While the dough is rising, prepare your pizza pans. Lightly grease them with oil and sprinkle cornmeal on top to create a non-stick surface.
• Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Transfer it back onto the floured surface, and divide it into two equal pieces.
• Roll out one piece of dough into a circle that matches the size of your pizza pan. Carefully stretch the dough to fit, ensuring the edges are slightly thicker.
• Preheat your oven to 420 degrees Fahrenheit. This high heat will ensure a beautifully baked crust.
• Before baking, place the pizza dough in the oven for seven minutes. This pre-baking step helps to set the crust.
• Brush the sides of the pizza with melted butter and sprinkle with one tablespoon of cornmeal for added flavor.
• Spread one cup of pizza sauce evenly over the pre-baked dough, then layer on your toppings: pepperoni, onion, green pepper, mozzarella cheese, mushrooms, and any other favorites.
• Bake the pizza for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges. The smell will be irresistible!
• Once baked, repeat the same process for the second pizza with the remaining dough and toppings.

Notes

• This recipe makes: 2 large size pizzas.

Keyword Best Pizza Toppings, Easy Pepperoni Pizza, Homemade Pizza, Pizza Recipe

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Meet Layla Reed

I’m Layla! I am happiest when I’m cooking with ingredients that are fresh from the market and in season. I love creating rustic, wholesome dishes that truly celebrate the natural flavors of the produce. I worked alongside Romina to ensure this recipe feels grounded, authentic, and absolutely delicious. I hope it brings a taste of the season to your home!