This pepperoni pizza is a classic favorite! With gooey cheese and spicy pepperoni on a crispy crust, it’s hard to resist a slice—or two! 🍕
I love to make it on a Friday night and enjoy it with friends. It’s simple to throw together, and who doesn’t love the smell of pizza baking in the oven?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Active Dry Yeast: This ingredient helps the dough rise. If you don’t have active dry yeast, instant yeast can be used instead. Just mix it directly with your flour without proofing first!
Flour: All-purpose flour works best for a chewy crust. If you want a heartier texture, consider using bread flour or even whole wheat flour. Just adjust the water slightly as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.
Pizza Sauce: A classic tomato sauce complements the pizza nicely. If you’re short on sauce, marinara or even a simple crushed tomato can work. You can also make a white sauce or barbecue sauce for a different twist!
Pepperoni: Traditional pepperoni is delicious, but you can substitute it with turkey pepperoni for a leaner option, or try cooked sausage, salami, or even veggies for a vegetarian version.
How Do I Get the Dough Just Right?
Making pizza dough can be tricky, but here are some easy steps to help you succeed:
- Make sure your water is warm but not hot—around 110°F helps wake up the yeast. Too hot can kill it!
- After mixing and kneading, let your dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot. You can even place it in the oven (turned off) for a cozy environment.
- Don’t skip kneading. This develops gluten and gives your crust that perfect chewy texture. It should feel elastic and smooth by the end!
With these tips, you’ll have wonderful homemade pizza dough every time!
Delicious Pepperoni Pizza Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F / 45°C)
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for greasing)
- 2 tsp sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce or pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 25-30 slices of pepperoni
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This pizza recipe requires about 15-20 minutes of active prep time and around 1 ½ hours for the dough to rise. Baking takes about 12-15 minutes. In total, you should plan for about 2 hours to make your delicious pepperoni pizza from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This shows that your yeast is active and ready to work!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
Add sugar, olive oil, and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a dough begins to form.
3. Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes. You want it to become smooth and elastic. This step is important for a good pizza crust!
4. Let it Rise:
Place your dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a cloth or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm area for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it has doubled in size. Patience is key here!
5. Preheat the Oven:
While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it inside the oven to heat up. This helps to give a nice crispy crust!
6. Shape the Dough:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release some air. Divide it into 1 or 2 portions, depending on how many pizzas you want to make. Roll out one portion into a circle about 12 inches in diameter on a floured surface.
7. Assemble the Pizza:
Transfer the rolled-out dough to a baking sheet or a floured pizza peel if using a stone. Spread the tomato sauce evenly across the base, then sprinkle on the shredded mozzarella cheese. Finally, arrange the pepperoni slices on top.
8. Add Seasoning:
If you like, sprinkle dried oregano or Italian seasoning over the top for extra flavor!
9. Baking Time!
Carefully place the pizza in the preheated oven (or on the pizza stone) and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the crust turns golden, the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the pepperoni edges are slightly crisp.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, carefully remove the pizza from the oven. Let it sit for a few minutes before slicing it into pieces. Serve hot and enjoy every cheesy, pepperoni slice!
Can I Use Store-Bought Dough Instead of Making My Own?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough can save you time and effort. Just follow the package instructions for rolling out and baking, then add your sauce, cheese, and toppings before baking as directed!
What If I Don’t Have Active Dry Yeast?
You can use instant yeast instead without needing to proof it first. Just mix it directly with your dry ingredients! If you don’t have yeast at all, consider using a pre-made pizza crust as an alternative.
Can I Freeze Leftover Pizza?
Yes, you can freeze leftover pizza. After it has cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until heated through.
What Other Toppings Can I Add?
The sky’s the limit! Feel free to add your favorite toppings like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, olives, or even pineapple! Just make sure not to overload it, as too many toppings can make the pizza soggy.