Best Homemade Pizza Dough and Sauce Recipe for Perfect Pizza

Best Homemade Pizza Dough and Sauce Recipe

Who doesn’t love a delicious, homemade pizza? With this simple recipe for pizza dough and pizza sauce, you’ll be able to whip up a restaurant-quality pizza in the comfort of your own kitchen. Perfect for family dinners, game nights, or weekend treats, this step-by-step guide ensures a crispy, flavorful crust and a rich, aromatic sauce.

Homemade Pizza Dough

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 cup warm water
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (optional)
• 4 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Proof the Yeast

In a bowl, combine sugar, ½ cup warm water, and yeast. Stir and let it sit for 10 minutes until the mixture turns foamy. This step ensures the yeast is activated.

2. Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and Italian seasoning (if using). Add the flour mixture, 3 tablespoons olive oil, and the remaining ½ cup warm water to the yeast mixture.

3. Knead the Dough

• By Hand: Knead on a lightly floured surface for 5-8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
• Using a Mixer: Mix on low for 1 minute, then medium-high for 5 minutes until smooth and stretchy.

4. Let the Dough Rise

Grease a bowl with 1 tablespoon olive oil, place the dough inside, and cover with a towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for 30 minutes or until doubled in size.

5. Stretch the Dough

Lightly flour your surface and rolling pin. Knead the dough a few times, then roll it into a 12-inch circle.

Making the Pizza

1. Preheat the Oven: Heat to 450°F (230°C).
2. Prepare the Pan: Grease with olive oil or sprinkle with cornmeal for a crispy crust.
3. Shape and Top: Stretch the dough to fit the pan, add your desired toppings, and bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden and cooked through.

Homemade Pizza Sauce

Ingredients

• 1 (28-ounce) can whole tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ¼ cup grated or finely minced onion
• ¾ teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

1. Prep the Tomatoes

Pour the whole tomatoes into a bowl and crush by hand until chunky (but not pureed).

2. Cook the Aromatics

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the onion, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

3. Simmer the Sauce

• Add the crushed tomatoes, sugar, and salt.
• Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• For a thicker sauce, continue cooking for an additional 15 minutes.

4. Store the Sauce

• Use immediately for fresh pizza.
• Refrigerate: Cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Freeze: Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Tips for Perfect Homemade Pizza

• Crispier Crust: Add a light sprinkle of cornmeal to the baking pan before placing the dough.
• Sauce Consistency: Adjust cooking time based on your preference—longer for a thicker sauce.
• Toppings: Experiment with fresh mozzarella, pepperoni, veggies, or even arugula for a gourmet touch.

Enjoy Your Homemade Pizza!

This homemade pizza dough and sauce recipe makes creating a perfect pizza at home simple and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a fun gathering, the flavors of the soft, crispy crust and rich tomato sauce will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Fire up your oven and start baking!