Nothing beats a classic pepperoni pizza! With a crispy crust topped with gooey cheese and spicy pepperoni slices, it’s a favorite for many. Perfect for pizza night or a quick snack!
Let’s be real, who can resist those bubbly cheese spots? I always end up eating way more than I planned—guilty as charged! 🍕 Making it at home is super fun and simple!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Active Dry Yeast: Essential for that fluffy crust. If you’re out, use instant yeast instead, which doesn’t need to be activated. Just mix it in with the dry ingredients.
Flour: All-purpose flour works great here! For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat flour. It might change the texture a bit, but it’s a great substitute.
Pepperoni: This is the star of the show! If you prefer a healthier option or just want to mix it up, turkey pepperoni or even veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms are tasty alternatives.
Cheese: Mozzarella is the classic choice. However, you can mix it with provolone or gouda for a fun twist on flavor. Vegan cheese is also available if you’re looking for dairy-free options!
Tomato Sauce: Store-bought pizza sauce is handy, but you can easily make your own with canned tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. It’s fresher and often tastier!
How Do I Perfectly Knead Pizza Dough?
Kneading dough is all about developing gluten, which gives the pizza its chewy texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Lightly flour your surface and place the dough ball on it.
- Using the heel of your hand, push the dough away from you.
- Fold it over, give it a quarter turn, and repeat that process for about 8-10 minutes.
- When it’s ready, the dough should be smooth and elastic. It should bounce back when pressed lightly with your finger. If it feels sticky, sprinkle a little flour as needed.
(Trust me, this step is key for that perfect crust!)
How to Make Delicious Pepperoni Pizza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce (pizza or marinara sauce)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 20-25 slices pepperoni
- Optional: 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare and around 12-15 minutes to bake. Don’t forget to allow about 1 to 1 1/2 hours for the dough to rise. In total, you’re looking at about 1.5 to 2 hours from start to finish. But trust me, the deliciousness is worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
Start by dissolving the active dry yeast and sugar in warm water in a small bowl. Let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This means the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic!
2. Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center, then pour in the foamy yeast mixture and the olive oil. Stir everything together until a dough starts to form.
3. Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes. You want the dough to be smooth and elastic. If it’s sticky, you can add a little more flour as you knead.
4. Let the Dough Rise:
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and set it in a warm spot to rise for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This is where the dough gets fluffy!
5. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pizza:
Once the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Punch down the dough to release any air. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out into a roughly 12-inch round shape.
6. Assemble the Pizza:
Place the rolled-out dough on a pizza stone or a baking sheet. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the base, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges for the crust. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the sauce, and then arrange the pepperoni slices on top.
7. Bake:
Pop the pizza into the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the crust to be golden and the cheese to be bubbly and slightly browned.
8. Finish and Serve:
Once done, take the pizza out of the oven and sprinkle some optional dried oregano or Italian seasoning for added flavor. You can also add grated Parmesan cheese if you’d like. Let it cool for a few minutes, then slice it up and enjoy your homemade pepperoni pizza!
Can I Substitute Whole Wheat Flour for All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but keep in mind that it may result in a denser crust. To ensure the best texture, consider mixing half whole wheat with half all-purpose flour.
How Do I Store Leftover Pizza?
Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it by wrapping individual slices in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 2 months!
Can I Use Fresh Yeast Instead of Active Dry Yeast?
Absolutely! If using fresh yeast, use about 3 times the amount of active dry yeast (approximately 21 grams or 0.75 oz). Simply crumble it into warm water and follow the same steps for activation.
What Are Some Topping Ideas Besides Pepperoni?
You can get creative with toppings! Try adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms, or mix in some cooked sausage or bacon. For a twist, drizzle with buffalo sauce or pesto before baking!