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Crispy Homemade Pepperoni Pizza

crispy homemade pepperoni pizza - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for a crispy homemade pepperoni pizza with a golden crust and perfectly crisp pepperoni edges. Perfect for weeknight comfort food or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons (one packet) active dry yeast
  • 1 ½ cups (360 ml) warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 3 ½ cups (440 g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (240 ml) canned tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 8 ounces (225 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 3 to 4 ounces (85115 g) sliced pepperoni
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the surface and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Make the dough: Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. Proof the dough quickly: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot for 30-45 minutes until doubled in size.
  4. Prepare the sauce: Mix the tomato sauce with oregano, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Preheat oven and baking surface: Place pizza stone or baking sheet in oven and preheat to 500°F (260°C) for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Shape the dough: Punch down the dough and roll or stretch into a 12-inch circle. Transfer to a pizza peel or parchment paper.
  7. Add sauce and toppings: Spread a thin layer of sauce over the dough, leaving a half-inch border. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly, then arrange pepperoni slices spaced out.
  8. Bake the pizza: Slide pizza onto preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
  9. Finishing touches: Remove pizza from oven and let rest a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

Preheat the baking surface for at least 30 minutes to achieve a crispy crust. Space pepperoni slices to avoid burning; tent with foil if needed. Let pizza rest before slicing to prevent toppings from sliding. Dough can be made ahead and refrigerated up to 24 hours. For extra crunch, blind bake crust for 3-4 minutes before adding toppings.

Nutrition

Keywords: pepperoni pizza, homemade pizza, crispy pizza crust, easy pizza recipe, quick pizza, pizza dough, mozzarella pizza