Homemade Pizza for Four

What Started it all:
pizza
Making pizza at home is a fun and delicious way to enjoy a classic dish with your family or friends. This recipe will guide you through creating a perfect homemade pizza that serves four people.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 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)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Toppings of your choice (pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, olives, etc.)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Mix until a dough forms. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions (each will make one pizza).
- On a floured surface, roll out each portion into a 12-inch circle. Transfer the dough to a pizza peel or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle an even layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Add your desired toppings.
- If using a pizza stone, carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated stone. If using a baking sheet, place it directly in the oven.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Slice and serve hot.
Homemade pizza is a delightful treat that brings people together. Customize your toppings to suit everyone's preferences and enjoy a delicious meal made from scratch. Buon appetito!