Name: Homemade Pizza with Fresh Dough and Toppings Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup warm water; 1 tsp active dry yeast; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp sugar; 1 tsp salt; 1¼ cups all-purpose flour (¼ cup for initial mix + 1 cup added later); ⅓ cup pizza sauce; ½ cup mozzarella cheese, grated; ¼ cup meat (such as cooked sausage or pepperoni); 1 tomato, sliced

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 79 reviews

If you have ever dreamed of crafting the perfect pizza from scratch, then you are in for a real treat with this Homemade Pizza with Fresh Dough and Toppings Recipe. Nothing beats the satisfaction of mixing your own fresh dough, rolling it out to just the right thickness, layering on bright, fresh toppings, and baking it until the crust is crisp and golden. This recipe brings together simple, wholesome ingredients that transform into a delicious, comforting pizza that’s bursting with flavor and made truly your own. Whether it’s a weekend project or a special dinner, you’ll love how this dish turns pizza night into a homemade celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round pizza with a thick, light beige dough base lying flat on a black surface, topped evenly with a layer of bright red tomato sauce. On top of the sauce are scattered slices of red tomato and small chunks of light brown meat spread across the pizza. The final layer is a generous spread of shredded white cheese, covering the toppings but still allowing some red and brown to show through. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Creating your own pizza dough and sauces may sound intimidating, but the ingredients are surprisingly basic and each one plays a key role in the overall taste, texture, and appearance of your homemade pizza. From the yeast that gives the dough its airy rise to the fresh tomato providing vibrant color and juiciness, every component is essential.

1 cup warm water: This activates the yeast and helps create the dough’s perfect softness.
1 tsp active dry yeast: The magic behind that light, fluffy dough rise.
2 tbsp olive oil: Adds moisture and a subtle richness to the dough texture.
1 tbsp sugar: Feeds the yeast to get your dough perfectly risen and slightly sweet.
1 tsp salt: Balances flavor and enhances the savory notes of the crust.
¼ cup flour (for dough mixture): Provides the necessary structure and chewiness.
½ cup mozzarella cheese (grated): Melts beautifully into a creamy, golden topping.
⅓ cup pizza sauce: A tangy, vibrant base filled with tomato goodness.
¼ cup meat (your choice): Adds savory, hearty depth to your pizza toppings.
1 fresh tomato: Offers juicy freshness and a pop of color on your pizza.

How to Make Homemade Pizza with Fresh Dough and Toppings Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough Mixture

Start by whisking the warm water, active dry yeast, sugar, and ¼ cup of flour together in either the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook or a large mixing bowl if you’re working by hand. Cover this mixture and let it rest for 10 to 20 minutes. You’ll notice it starting to bubble and foam—that’s the yeast coming alive and doing its work.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Once the yeast mixture is bubbly, add the olive oil, salt, and the rest of the flour to the bowl. Using your stand mixer on low speed, mix the dough for 3 minutes. If kneading by hand, sprinkle your hands with flour and work the dough for 4 to 5 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. This step builds the gluten structure that will give your pizza crust that wonderful chewiness.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Grease a large bowl with oil or nonstick spray, place your dough inside, and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Let the dough sit at room temperature for 60 to 90 minutes, during which it will double in size. This rest is crucial as it allows the dough to develop flavor and texture. When ready, punch the dough down to release any trapped air bubbles.

Step 4: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to a toasty 475°F. Prepare your baking sheet by greasing it lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and promote a nice crisp on the bottom of your crust.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Divide the dough in half for manageable pizza sizes, then on a flour-dusted surface, use a rolling pin to gently flatten each piece into a disc. Place the discs on your prepared baking sheets. Cover them with a kitchen towel and let them rest for a few more minutes while you gather your toppings.

Step 6: Add Toppings and Bake

Spoon your homemade or store-bought pizza sauce evenly across the dough discs, then layer on your fresh tomato slices, meat, and a generous sprinkle of grated mozzarella cheese. Pop your pizzas into the oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese has melted into gooey perfection. Slice them hot and savor every bite.

How to Serve Homemade Pizza with Fresh Dough and Toppings Recipe

A round pizza with a light golden crust on a wooden board. It is cut into five slices, with one slice slightly pulled away showing soft, melted white cheese stretching between the pieces. The pizza has a base layer of red tomato sauce, topped with melted white cheese and browned bits of mushroom or meat. There are slices of red tomato peeking through under the cheese. Bright green fresh leaves are scattered on top and around the pizza, adding a fresh touch. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of good quality olive oil can take your pizza from tasty to gourmet. These simple touches add flavor contrast and visual appeal that make serving your homemade pizza even more special.

Side Dishes

Pair your pizza with a fresh green salad tossed in vinaigrette or some roasted garlic breadsticks for a complete meal full of complementary textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your pizza family-style on a large wooden board or stack individual slices vertically in a little pizza “tower.” Adding colorful napkins and rustic plates can make your pizza night feel like a festive occasion no matter where you are.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover pizza tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the toppings fresh and prevents the crust from drying out.

Freezing

If you want to stash pizza for longer, freeze fully cooled slices in airtight containers or freezer bags. They’ll keep well for 1 to 2 months, ready to rescue a busy dinner with minimal prep.

Reheating

Reheat your pizza in a skillet over medium heat to revive that crispy crust, or pop it into a preheated oven at 375°F until the cheese bubbles again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crust from becoming soggy.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Absolutely! Instant yeast can be used, and it often works faster, so keep an eye on your dough as it rises. You can add it directly to the flour without proofing it in warm water first.

How thick should I roll out the dough?

The thickness depends on your preference, but around ¼ inch is a good starting point for a crust that is crispy on the outside while still chewy inside.

Can I use other cheeses besides mozzarella?

Yes, feel free to experiment! Cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or gouda are delicious alternatives or additions that add complexity to your pizza.

Is it necessary to let the dough rise twice?

For this recipe, a single rise after kneading is enough, but some pizza makers prefer a second rise after shaping for an even lighter crust. It’s all about your texture preference.

What if I don’t have a rolling pin?

No problem! You can use your hands to stretch and press the dough into shape. It might take a bit longer but gets you a lovely rustic crust every time.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about making pizza at home, especially when you get to share this Homemade Pizza with Fresh Dough and Toppings Recipe with friends or family. The process from mixing dough to adding your favorite toppings is incredibly satisfying and fun. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the warmth and flavors of a pizza made just the way you like it!