How to make pizza from scratch

Wondering how to make pizza from scratch? You’ve come to the right place.

Pizza, a beloved culinary creation loved by people of all ages, holds a special place in our hearts and stomachs. While ordering pizza is convenient, there’s something undeniably satisfying about making it from scratch. In this blog, we will embark on a delicious journey and learn how to create mouthwatering pizzas at home.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this step-by-step guide will help you master the art of homemade pizza, unleashing your creativity and allowing you to customize each slice to your heart’s desire.

Gather the ingredients

Before diving into the doughy goodness, it’s crucial to gather all the necessary ingredients for your homemade pizza. Here’s a simple checklist to get you started:

1. Pizza dough: You can make your own dough or purchase pre-made dough from a store. Homemade dough offers the flexibility to control the texture and flavor. Basic ingredients include flour, yeast, salt, and water.
2. Pizza sauce: Opt for a canned variety or make your own using tomatoes, herbs, and spices. Homemade sauce allows you to customize the flavors to suit your taste preferences.
3. Cheese: Mozzarella is a classic choice for pizza, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or feta. Consider mixing different cheeses to create unique flavor profiles.
4. Toppings: Choose from a variety of vegetables, meats, and herbs to create a symphony of flavors. Popular choices include bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, olives, pepperoni, sausage, basil, and oregano.
5. Olive oil, salt, and pepper: These basic ingredients will enhance the taste of your pizza. Olive oil can be drizzled over the crust before baking for added flavor and texture.

Prepare the dough

1. Making the dough: If you’re making your own dough, combine flour, yeast, salt, and water in a mixing bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If using store-bought dough, follow the package instructions for any additional steps.
2. Proofing the dough: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size. This can take around 1 to 2 hours, depending on the room temperature.
3. Shaping the dough: Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into individual portions, depending on the desired pizza size. Roll each portion into a ball and let them rest for a few minutes, allowing the gluten to relax and make it easier to shape.
4. Stretching the dough: Flour a clean surface and flatten each ball of dough into a round shape using your hands or a rolling pin. Start from the center and work your way outwards, rotating the dough as you go. Aim for a thickness that suits your preference, ensuring the dough is evenly stretched.
5. Creating a crust: To create a traditional crust, gently pinch the edges of the dough, forming a raised border. This will create a crust that is slightly thicker and crispier.

Assemble and bake

1. Preheating the oven: Set your oven to the highest temperature, usually around 500°F (260°C), and let it preheat for at least 30 minutes. A hot oven ensures that the pizza cooks evenly and the crust becomes crispy.
2. Preparing the pizza stone or baking sheet: If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven during the preheating stage to ensure it gets hot. Dust the stone or baking sheet with flour or cornmeal to prevent sticking and to enhance the crust’s texture.
3. Transferring the dough: Gently transfer the stretched dough to the prepared pizza stone or baking sheet. If you’re using a pizza peel or an upside-down baking sheet, lightly dust it with flour or cornmeal to help the dough slide off easily.
4. Adding the sauce and toppings: Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a border for the crust. Use the back of a spoon or ladle to distribute the sauce evenly. Sprinkle cheese generously over the sauce, ensuring it reaches the edges. Add your desired toppings, arranging them evenly across the pizza.
5. Baking the pizza: Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. Keep an eye on the pizza during the baking process to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
6. Cooling and slicing: Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing it into wedges or squares. This will help the cheese set and make it easier to handle. Serve the freshly baked pizza while it’s still hot for the best taste experience.

FAQ: Make pizza from scratch

Can I freeze pizza dough?

Absolutely! Wrap individual portions of pizza dough tightly in plastic wrap or store them in airtight containers before freezing. Thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight before using. Remember to let it rise again before stretching and baking.

How do I get a perfectly crispy pizza crust?

For a crispy crust, roll the dough thin and even. Prick the dough lightly with a fork before adding the sauce and toppings to prevent air bubbles. Using a pizza stone or baking sheet and baking at a high temperature will help achieve a crispy texture. Brushing the crust with olive oil before baking can also contribute to a crispy and flavorful crust.

What if I don’t have a pizza stone or baking sheet?

If you don’t have a pizza stone or baking sheet when you make pizza from scratch, you can use an inverted baking tray or a cast-iron skillet as an alternative. Preheat them along with the oven to ensure they get hot and transfer the pizza onto them for baking.

How long can I store leftover pizza?

Leftover pizza can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Place the slices in an airtight container or wrap them in aluminum foil. To reheat, you can use a preheated oven, toaster oven, or even a skillet on low heat to retain the crispness of the crust.

Conclusion

Making pizza from scratch is a rewarding and delicious experience that allows you to unleash your culinary creativity. With this comprehensive guide, you’re equipped with the knowledge and techniques to create a perfect homemade pizza.

From preparing the dough to selecting the toppings, each step contributes to a pizza that reflects your unique taste. So, grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embark on a mouthwatering adventure that will leave your taste buds longing for more. Enjoy the satisfaction of making your own pizza and sharing it with your loved ones.

With practice, you’ll master the art of homemade pizza and be able to experiment with flavors and toppings to create truly extraordinary culinary creations. Let your imagination run wild and savor every bite of your homemade masterpiece.

Next, learn how to make sourdough bread from scratch.