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The Best Easy Homemade Pizza Dough Recipe with Classic Red Sauce

Close-up of a thick slice of homemade pizza showing the airy, bubbly crust, melted cheese, and rich tomato sauce.
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Follow these steps to create a simple, flavorful homemade pizza dough and a basic red sauce for a satisfying pizza night.

Ingredients

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  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (105-115°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 (15 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (for sauce)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (for sauce)
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix the dough: Add the flour, olive oil, and 2 teaspoons of salt to the yeast mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5 to 7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  4. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  5. Make the sauce: While the dough rises, combine the crushed tomatoes, minced garlic, oregano, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Stir well and set aside.
  6. Preheat and shape: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Punch down the risen dough and divide it in half. On a floured surface, stretch or roll one half into a 12-inch circle or desired shape for a sheet pan.
  7. Assemble the pizza: Place the dough on a lightly oiled baking sheet or pizza stone. Spread half of the prepared sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese.
  8. Bake: Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Repeat with the remaining dough and sauce.

Notes

  • For a chewier crust, let the dough rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight instead of at room temperature.
  • If you prefer a thinner crust, press the dough out thinner before the final bake.
  • Use high-quality crushed tomatoes for the best sauce flavor.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://flavorzine.com/best-easy-homemade-pizza-dough-recipe/