This pepperoni pizza is a classic favorite! With a crispy crust and gooey cheese topped with spicy, flavorful pepperoni, it’s a dish everyone loves.
Honestly, who can resist a hot slice? I always grab an extra piece because it’s so good. Perfect for movie night or a quick dinner!
Making this pizza at home is super easy. Just roll out the dough, load it with sauce, cheese, and pepperoni, and bake. Dinner is served!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: You can use homemade dough or store-bought for convenience. If you’re gluten-free, substitutions like almond flour or a pre-made gluten-free dough are great options.
Pizza Sauce: A classic tomato sauce works best, but marinara or even pesto is a fun change. If you’re in a hurry, store-bought sauces are just fine, too!
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella gives that classic stretch. For a richer flavor, try using a mix of mozzarella and provolone. Vegan cheese can be a good alternative for a dairy-free option.
Pepperoni: Traditional pepperoni is a favorite, but you can substitute with turkey pepperoni for a lighter option or even veggies for a veggie pizza.
Parmesan Cheese: Optional but adds a nice touch. You can skip it, or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free flavor boost.
Why Is Preheating Important for Great Pizza?
Preheating your oven is crucial for achieving a perfectly cooked pizza. A hot oven helps the crust become crispy and prevents the dough from becoming soggy.
- Turn on your oven to 475°F (245°C) at least 30 minutes before baking.
- If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven during the preheating process. This allows the stone to absorb heat, giving your pizza that nice, crispy base.
Taking time to preheat may seem tedious, but it’s the magic behind a perfect pizza crust! Trust me; it’s worth it!
How to Make Delicious Pepperoni Pizza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pizza:
- 1 batch pizza dough (enough for a 12-inch pizza)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce (tomato-based)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 20-25 slices pepperoni
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing the crust)
- Flour (for dusting)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pepperoni pizza takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 10-12 minutes of baking time, making it ready to serve in about half an hour! Perfect for a quick dinner or a weekend treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven now so it heats up along with the oven. This step is key to getting that crispy crust!
2. Prepare the Dough:
On a countertop dusted with flour, roll out your pizza dough into a round shape, about 12 inches wide. If you have a pizza peel or an inverted baking sheet, transfer the rolled-out dough onto it, dusted with a little flour or cornmeal to prevent sticking.
3. Add the Sauce:
Spread the pizza sauce evenly across the surface of the dough, leaving about 1 inch at the edges for the crust. This helps to keep the pizza neat and prevents spills!
4. Layer on the Cheese:
Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, making sure every tasty inch is covered. The more cheese, the better!
5. Top with Pepperoni:
Now, lay the pepperoni slices evenly across the cheese, covering the pizza as much as you like. Don’t be shy—more pepperoni makes it even more delicious!
6. Optional Parmesan:
If you love a bit of extra flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top. It adds a nice touch!
7. Brush the Crust:
Use a brush or your finger to coat the exposed edges of the crust with olive oil. This will help it turn golden and crispy while baking.
8. Bake the Pizza:
Carefully slide your pizza onto the hot pizza stone or place it on a baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
9. Cool and Slice:
Once done, use oven mitts to remove the pizza from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This helps to set the cheese and makes it easier to slice.
10. Enjoy:
Serve your delicious homemade pepperoni pizza hot and enjoy every savory bite with family and friends!
Can I Use Pre-Made Pizza Dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough is a great time-saver. Just follow the instructions on the package, and make sure to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out for best results.
What Can I Substitute for Pepperoni?
If you’re looking for alternatives, consider turkey or chicken pepperoni for a lighter option. You can also use sliced veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for a vegetarian pizza.
How to Store Leftover Pizza?
Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm, though the oven will help maintain the crust’s crispiness better!
Is It Possible to Freeze the Pizza?
Yes, you can freeze the pizza! To do this, assemble your pizza but don’t bake it. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze. When you’re ready to bake, cook it straight from the freezer, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
