🕷️ Crawler Inspector

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Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 82 (from laksa130)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa082.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/","crawl_time":1775895319,"first_indexed_time":1703947269,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,joyfoodsunshine!\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/ s443","src_root_hash":"9890143454584185282","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"How to Make Pizza (Pizza Recipe) - JoyFoodSunshine","meta_descriptions":["Learn how to make pizza at home with this easy and delicious homemade pizza recipe that only takes 30 minutes to make!"],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Learn how to make pizza at home with this easy and delicious homemade pizza recipe. Use\nhomemade pizza dough\nand\npizza sauce\nto make the\nbest\npizza in 30 minutes – flat!\nIn my years of experience working at a Chicago pizzeria, I learned how to make the\nbest\npizza!  So, I took my experience & pizza knowledge and created this\nhomemade pizza recipe\nfor you!\nWe moved away from Chicago, to a sate that is\nnot\nknown for it’s delicious pies, so we make this homemade pizza recipe weekly.\nIn this post, you will learn how to make pizza at home using the\nbest\nhomemade pizza dough\nand\npizza sauce\nrecipes. I will also share all my tips and tricks so your homemade pizza turns out perfectly every single time.\nHomemade Pizza Recipe: Ingredients\nPizza dough.\nI suggest making this\nhomemade pizza dough recipe\n– it’s made with 5 ingredients in 5 minutes and doesn’t require rising (although that is an option). Or try this\nwhole wheat pizza dough recipe.\nYou can also use store-bought pizza dough if you’d prefer.\nPizza sauce.\nnothing beats this\nhomemade pizza sauce recipe\n. It’s easy to make in 5 minutes and doesn’t require cooking. In a pinch you can use\nstore-bought pizza sauce\ntoo!\nMozzarella Cheese.\nYou will need 3-4 cups of mozzarella cheese, depending on how cheesy you like your pizza.\nToppings:\nI give many topping options in the recipe card, such as but not limited to: sausage (\nsausage pizza recipe\n), pepperoni (see this\npepperoni pizza recipe\n), cheese (\ncheese pizza recipe\n), pineapple, ham,\nbarbecue chicken\n, vegetables, etc.\nHomemade Pizza Equipment\nPizza stone.\nUsing a\npizza stone\nis a sure-fire way to get restaurant quality pies without needing a fancy pizza oven.\nUse a\nPizza peel\nor a a\nflat-rimmed baking sheet\nto easily transport the homemade pizza in and out of the oven.\nParchment paper.\nAssembling the pizza on parchment paper ensures it’s easy to transport and that it doesn’t stick.\nPizza Scissors.\npizza-cutting\ngame changer\n. You can cut the pizza right on the cooling rack\nwith scissors!\nAnd they make it easy to cut a piece into smaller pieces for younger children.\nWire Cooling Rack.\na\nlarge, round cooling rack\nis perfect for pizzas.\nRolling Pin.\nI suggest a\nmarble rolling pin\nfor easy\npizza dough\nrolling.\nNow, we will walk through how to make homemade pizza. Remember all steps are simplified by using store-bought ingredients.\nMake the\nPizza Dough\nBegin by making the dough. It’s very simple to make – check out this post –\npizza dough recipe\n– for detailed step-by-step instructions.\nBegin by proofing the yeast in water with sugar.\nThen add the wet ingredients and stir to combine.\nNext add the dry ingredients\nAdd flour slowly until the mixture forms a slightly tacky ball.\nThen knead until it’s smooth.\nLet it rise before rolling if you prefer – this results in a fluffier crust.\nMake the\nPizza Sauce\nI often like to make the\npizza sauce\nlong before dinnertime and let it sit at room temperature. It’s easy to prepare in advance. Or, make it while the dough is rising.\nTo make the sauce, simply combine all the ingredients in a medium bowl and whisk or stir until smooth. You can reference this post: Homemade\nPizza Sauce Recipe\nfor more tips and detailed instructions.\nMore\nHeat a\nPizza Stone\nBefore you begin assembling the pizza, you need to preheat the oven and warm the\npizza stone\n. Put the stone in the oven as it preheats, and let it warm at 500 degrees F for at least 10 minutes before cooking the pizza.\nIf you aren’t one of the few that actually has a real pizza oven at home, using a\npizza stone\nis a key step when it comes to making authentic, homemade pizza.\nPutting the pizza directly on a hot surface ensures the bottom crust crisps nicely without over-browning the cheese.\nWhat if I don’t have a pizza stone?\nIf you don’t have a pizza stone, you can use a\npizza pan\n. and preheat it in the oven.\nAssemble the Homemade Pizza\nNow that your dough and sauce are ready to go and your stone is preheating, let’s assemble our pizza recipe.\nBegin by rolling out the pizza dough into your desired shape. We have a round pizza stone, so we form a round circle of dough.\nWe have also made it into fun shapes – like a heart at Valentine’s day, Football for the super bowl, etc.\nThen, transfer the dough to a piece of parchment paper (for ease of transfer from the counter to the oven).\nNext, spread a thick layer of sauce over the pizza dough, leaving about a ½ inch border around the pizza (or more if you like more crust).\nOnce the sauce is spread evenly over the dough, add the cheese.\nIf you are going to include toppings, sprinklings\ntwo layers of cheese\nis a trick of the trade to ensure the best pizza ever.\nSo, sprinkle a base layer of cheese, then add the toppings, then add the rest of the cheese over the toppings. Trust me, this is\nthe way\nto make pizza.\nTopping Suggestions\nHere are our favorite pizza toppings (besides plain\ncheese pizza\n, of course)\nPepperoni\nSausage\nor Bacon.\nPre-cook the\nsausage\n\/bacon in a skillet until it’s no longer pink, then add it to the pizza between the layers of cheese.\nPineapple & Ham\nVegetables\n: Bell Peppers, onion, olives, mushrooms, tomatoes spinach, etc.\nFresh Herbs.\nBasil, parsley, cilantro (especially with\nBBQ chicken\n), etc.\nUse leftover\nBBQ chicken\nto make\nBBQ Chicken Pizza\nCook\nNow, use a\npizza peel\nor\nflat cookie sheet\nto transfer the assembled pizza from the counter to the oven. Gently lift up one side of the parchment paper and slide the\npeel\nunder the paper.\nThen, carefully transfer the parchment paper and pizza to the preheated stone in the oven.\nBake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is completely melted.\nIf desired, remove the parchment paper halfway through baking (once the crust has firmed up) by giving it a quick tug.\nWatch the pizza carefully\nTowards the end of the baking time the pizza changes very quickly. It can go from almost done to too brown in a flash.\nCool\nOnce the pizza has finished cooking, use a\npizza peel\nor\nflat cookie sheet\nto remove it from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool for at least 10 minutes.\nLetting it cool slightly makes it easier to cut\nand\nprevents anyone from burning their mouths on hot pizza sauce!\nServe\nYou can transfer the pizza to a cutting board and use a pizza cutter to slice it. However, we prefer to use\npizza scissors\nto cut our homemade pizza.\nThey changed our lives (especially having to cut pizza for babies for so many years) and I highly recommend\npurchasing a pair.\nWe love serving pizza with this\nburrata salad\n,\npanzanella salad\nor\nfruit salad\n.\nStore\nLet the leftover homemade pizza cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.\nFreeze\nLet the cheese  pizza cool completely before storing in a single layer in an airtight container. It will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator. You can also freeze it for up to 1 month.\nReheat\nReheat in the microwave or in the oven set to warm, or in a saucepan with a lid over medium heat (this helps re-crisp the crust)\nHomemade Pizza Recipe FAQs\nWhat are the steps to make a pizza?\nHere’s an overview:\nMake the dough & sauce\nRoll out the dough\nSpread the sauce over the pizza\nSpread cheese & toppings over the sauce\nBake, cool & serve!\nWhat pizza toppings need to be cooked first?\nSausage\nand bacon need to be cooked before adding to pizza.\nDo you put cheese on pizza first or last?\nI suggest adding\ntwo layers\nof cheese for the best homemade pizza. Add one layer, then toppings, then a second layer.\nWhat is the best cheese for pizza?\nMozzarella is the absolute best. You can also use cheddar cheese, goat cheese, etc.\nIf you make and love my recipes, it would mean so much to me if you would leave a comment and rating! And don’t forget to follow along on\nInstagram\n,\nPinterest\n,\nFacebook\n,\nTikTok\nand\nYoutube\n– be sure to tag @joyfoodsunshine and use the hashtag #joyfoodsunshine so I can see your creations!\n▢\nPizza Dough\n▢\nPizza Sauce\n▢\n3\nCups\nMozzarella Cheese\nToppings (optional)*\n▢\npepperoni, sausage, olives, vegetables, pineapple, etc.\nMake the Pizza Dough (or use store bought).\nProof the yeast in water with sugar.\nThen add the wet ingredients and stir to combine.\nNext add the dry ingredients\nAdd flour slowly until the mixture forms a slightly tacky ball.\nThen knead until it’s smooth.\nIf desired, let it rise before rolling if you prefer – this results in a fluffier crust (rising is not required with this dough recipe\nMake the Pizza Sauce (or use store bought).\nCombine all the sauce ingredients in the recipe linked in a medium bowl.\nPreheat the Pizza Stone\nBefore assembling the pizza, you need to preheat the oven and warm the pizza stone. Put the stone in the oven as it preheats, and let it warm at 500 degrees F for at least 10 minutes before cooking the pizza.\nAssemble the Pizza\nRoll out the pizza dough into your desired shape. We have a round pizza stone, so we form a round circle of dough.\nThen, transfer the dough to a piece of parchment paper.\nSpread a thick layer of sauce over the pizza dough, leaving about a ½ inch border around the pizza (or more if you like more crust).\nSprinkle a layer of cheese evenly over the sauce.\nIf you are going to include toppings, sprinkle a base layer of cheese, then add the toppings, then add the rest of the cheese over the toppings.\nBake, Cool & Serve\nUse a pizza peel or flat cookie sheet to transfer the assembled pizza from the counter to the pizza stone in the oven. Gently lift up one side of the parchment paper and slide the peel under the paper.\nBake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is completely melted.\nOnce the pizza has finished cooking, use a pizza peel or flat cookie sheet to remove it from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool for at least 10 minutes.\nOnce slightly cooled, cut and serve.\nIngredient Notes & Substitutions\nPizza dough.\nI suggest making this\nhomemade pizza dough recipe\n– it’s made with 5 ingredients in 5 minutes and doesn’t require rising (although that is an option). Or try this\nwhole wheat pizza dough recipe.\nYou can also use store-bought pizza dough if you’d prefer.\nPizza sauce.\nnothing beats this\nhomemade pizza sauce recipe\n. It’s easy to make in 5 minutes and doesn’t require cooking. In a pinch you can use\nstore-bought pizza sauce\ntoo!\nMozzarella Cheese.\nYou will need 3-4 cups of mozzarella cheese, depending on how cheesy you like your pizza.\n*Topping Suggestions\nPepperoni\nSausage or Bacon.\nPre-cook the sausage\/bacon in a skillet until it’s no longer pink, then add it to the pizza between the layers of cheese.\nPineapple & Ham\nVegetables\n: Bell Peppers, onion, olives, mushrooms, tomatoes spinach, etc.\nFresh Herbs.\nBasil, parsley, cilantro (especially with\nBBQ chicken\n), etc.\nUse leftover\nBBQ chicken\nto make\nBBQ Chicken Pizza\nIf I don’t have a Pizza Stone? \nIf you don’t have a pizza stone, you can use a\npizza pan\n. and preheat it in the oven.\nServing:\n1\nslice\n|\nCalories:\n135\nkcal\n|\nCarbohydrates:\n15\ng\n|\nProtein:\n7\ng\n|\nFat:\n6\ng\n|\nSaturated Fat:\n3\ng\n|\nPolyunsaturated Fat:\n0.4\ng\n|\nMonounsaturated Fat:\n1\ng\n|\nCholesterol:\n17\nmg\n|\nSodium:\n450\nmg\n|\nPotassium:\n95\nmg\n|\nFiber:\n1\ng\n|\nSugar:\n3\ng\n|\nVitamin A:\n257\nIU\n|\nVitamin C:\n2\nmg\n|\nCalcium:\n110\nmg\n|\nIron:\n1\nmg\nNutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.\nTry these Recipes","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to content](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#main-content)\n\n[Sign up for free weekly recipes\\!](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/instant-updates\/)\n\n- [Recipe Index](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/recipe-index\/)\n  - [Breakfast](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/category\/breakfast\/)\n  - [Appetizers](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/category\/appetizer\/)\n  - [Desserts](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/category\/dessert\/)\n  - [Main Dishes](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/category\/main-dish\/)\n  - [Salads](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/category\/salads\/)\n  - [Side Dishes](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/category\/side-dish\/)\n  - [Snacks](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/category\/snacks\/)\n  - [Soups and Stews](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/category\/soups-and-stews\/)\n- [Dinner Recipes](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/category\/main-dish\/)\n- [Desserts](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/category\/dessert\/)\n- [Side Dishes](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/category\/side-dish\/)\n- [Appetizers](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/category\/appetizer\/)\n- [About](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/about-laura\/)\n  - [About JoyFoodSunshine](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/about\/)\n  - [About Laura](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/about-laura\/)\n  - [Contact](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/contact\/)\n  - [Privacy Policy & Disclaimers](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/privacy-policy\/)\n  - [Work With Me](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/work-with-me\/)\n\n[Home](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/) \\| [Recipes](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/recipe-index\/) \\| [Pizza](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/category\/pizza\/) \\| How to Make Pizza (Pizza Recipe)\n\n# How to Make Pizza (Pizza Recipe)\n[![Avatar photo](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/cropped-author-avatar-64x64.jpg)](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/about-laura\/)\n\nBy [Laura](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/about-laura\/)\n\nUpdated Sep 30, 2024\n\n5 from 6 votes\n\n[17 Comments](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comments)\n\n[Jump to Recipe](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#wprm-recipe-container-75305)\n\n[Pin Recipe](https:\/\/pinterest.com\/pin\/create\/button\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fjoyfoodsunshine.com%2Fhomemade-pizza-recipe%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fjoyfoodsunshine.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F12%2Fhomemade-pizza-recipe-pinterest.png&description=Learn+how+to+make+pizza+at+home+with+this+easy+and+delicious+homemade+pizza+recipe.+Use+homemade+pizza+dough+and+pizza+sauce+to+make+the+best+pizza+in+30+minutes+-+flat%21+ \"Share on Pinterest\")\n\n[Share](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/sharer\/sharer.php?u=https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/&display=popup&ref=plugin&src=share_button \"Share on Facebook\")\n\nSave to Favorites\n\nThis post may contain affiliate links. Please read our [disclosure policy](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/privacy-policy\/).\n\nLearn how to make pizza at home with this easy and delicious homemade pizza recipe. Use [homemade pizza dough](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-dough\/) and [pizza sauce](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe\/) to make the *best* pizza in 30 minutes – flat\\!\n\n![a round homemade Pizza on a pizza peel](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-14.jpg)\n\nIn my years of experience working at a Chicago pizzeria, I learned how to make the **best** pizza! So, I took my experience & pizza knowledge and created this **homemade pizza recipe** for you\\!\n\nWe moved away from Chicago, to a sate that is *not* known for it’s delicious pies, so we make this homemade pizza recipe weekly.\n\nIn this post, you will learn how to make pizza at home using the [*best* homemade pizza dough](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-dough\/) and [pizza sauce](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe\/) recipes. I will also share all my tips and tricks so your homemade pizza turns out perfectly every single time.\n\n![a triangular slice of homemade Pizza ](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201680'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![a triangular slice of homemade Pizza ](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-15.jpg)\n## **Homemade Pizza Recipe: Ingredients**\n![overhead photo of the labeled ingredients used to make this homemade pizza recipe](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%20800'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![overhead photo of the labeled ingredients used to make this homemade pizza recipe](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/how-to-make-pizza-ingredients.jpg)\n\n- **[Pizza dough.](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-dough\/)** I suggest making this [homemade pizza dough recipe](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-dough\/) – it’s made with 5 ingredients in 5 minutes and doesn’t require rising (although that is an option). Or try this [whole wheat pizza dough recipe.](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/whole-wheat-pizza-dough\/) You can also use store-bought pizza dough if you’d prefer.\n- **[Pizza sauce.](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe\/)**  nothing beats this [homemade pizza sauce recipe](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe\/). It’s easy to make in 5 minutes and doesn’t require cooking. In a pinch you can use [store-bought pizza sauce](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3JWMtqD) too\\!\n- **Mozzarella Cheese.** You will need 3-4 cups of mozzarella cheese, depending on how cheesy you like your pizza.\n- **Toppings:** I give many topping options in the recipe card, such as but not limited to: sausage ([sausage pizza recipe](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/sausage-pizza\/)), pepperoni (see this [pepperoni pizza recipe](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/pepperoni-pizza-recipe\/)), cheese ([cheese pizza recipe](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/cheese-pizza-recipe\/)), pineapple, ham, [barbecue chicken](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/bbq-chicken-pizza\/), vegetables, etc.\n\n![3 slices of homemade Pizza Recipe, one with a bite taken out of it](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201200'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![3 slices of homemade Pizza Recipe, one with a bite taken out of it](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-18.jpg)\n## Homemade Pizza Equipment\n- **[Pizza stone.](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3HNkarW)** Using a [pizza stone](https:\/\/amzn.to\/48b9aAl) is a sure-fire way to get restaurant quality pies without needing a fancy pizza oven.\n- Use a [**Pizza peel**](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3jHFrvk) or a a [**flat-rimmed baking sheet**](https:\/\/amzn.to\/4adVlCP) to easily transport the homemade pizza in and out of the oven.\n- [**Parchment paper.**](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3uRibAc) Assembling the pizza on parchment paper ensures it’s easy to transport and that it doesn’t stick.\n- **[Pizza Scissors.](https:\/\/amzn.to\/46ir6bh)** pizza-cutting ***game changer***. You can cut the pizza right on the cooling rack [with scissors\\!](https:\/\/amzn.to\/46ir6bh) And they make it easy to cut a piece into smaller pieces for younger children.\n- **[Wire Cooling Rack.](https:\/\/amzn.to\/463lyBG)**  a [large, round cooling rack](https:\/\/amzn.to\/463lyBG) is perfect for pizzas.\n- **[Rolling Pin.](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3t3lvXU)**  I suggest a [marble rolling pin](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3t3lvXU) for easy [pizza dough](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-dough\/) rolling.\n\n![overhead photo of the labeled equipment used to make this homemade pizza recipe](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%20800'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![overhead photo of the labeled equipment used to make this homemade pizza recipe](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/how-to-make-pizza-equipment.jpg)\n## How to Make Pizza\nNow, we will walk through how to make homemade pizza. Remember all steps are simplified by using store-bought ingredients.\n\n### Make the [Pizza Dough](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-dough\/)\nBegin by making the dough. It’s very simple to make – check out this post – **[pizza dough recipe](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-dough\/)** – for detailed step-by-step instructions.\n\nBegin by proofing the yeast in water with sugar.\n\n![How to Make Pizza -proofing yeast for dough](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201499'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![How to Make Pizza -proofing yeast for dough](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-1.jpg)\n\n![How to Make Pizza -proofing yeast for dough](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![How to Make Pizza -proofing yeast for dough](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-2.jpg)\n\nThen add the wet ingredients and stir to combine.\n\n![How to Make Pizza adding wet ingredients to dough ](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![How to Make Pizza adding wet ingredients to dough ](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-3.jpg)\n\n![How to Make Pizza adding wet ingredients to dough ](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![How to Make Pizza adding wet ingredients to dough ](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-4.jpg)\n\nNext add the dry ingredients\n\nAdd flour slowly until the mixture forms a slightly tacky ball.\n\n![How to Make Pizza stirring dough](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![How to Make Pizza stirring dough](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-5.jpg)\n\n![How to Make Pizza stirring dough](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![How to Make Pizza stirring dough](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-6.jpg)\n\nThen knead until it’s smooth.\n\nLet it rise before rolling if you prefer – this results in a fluffier crust.\n\n![How to Make Pizza dough formed into a ball](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![How to Make Pizza dough formed into a ball](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-7.jpg)\n### Make the [Pizza Sauce](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe\/)\nI often like to make the [pizza sauce](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe\/) long before dinnertime and let it sit at room temperature. It’s easy to prepare in advance. Or, make it while the dough is rising.\n\nTo make the sauce, simply combine all the ingredients in a medium bowl and whisk or stir until smooth. You can reference this post: Homemade [Pizza Sauce Recipe](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe\/) for more tips and detailed instructions.\n\nMore\n\n![How to Make Pizza - sauce ingredients in a bowl before stirring](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![How to Make Pizza - sauce ingredients in a bowl before stirring](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-8.jpg)\n\n![How to Make Pizza - sauce ingredients combined in a bowl](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![How to Make Pizza - sauce ingredients combined in a bowl](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-9.jpg)\n### Heat a [Pizza Stone](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3HNkarW)\nBefore you begin assembling the pizza, you need to preheat the oven and warm the [pizza stone](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3HNkarW). Put the stone in the oven as it preheats, and let it warm at 500 degrees F for at least 10 minutes before cooking the pizza.\n\nIf you aren’t one of the few that actually has a real pizza oven at home, using a [pizza stone](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3HNkarW) is a key step when it comes to making authentic, homemade pizza.\n\nPutting the pizza directly on a hot surface ensures the bottom crust crisps nicely without over-browning the cheese.\n\n## What if I don’t have a pizza stone?\nIf you don’t have a pizza stone, you can use a [pizza pan](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3lofgdB). and preheat it in the oven.\n\n![How to Make Pizza - a pizza stone preheating in an oven](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%20800'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![How to Make Pizza - a pizza stone preheating in an oven](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-4.jpg)\n### Assemble the Homemade Pizza\nNow that your dough and sauce are ready to go and your stone is preheating, let’s assemble our pizza recipe.\n\nBegin by rolling out the pizza dough into your desired shape. We have a round pizza stone, so we form a round circle of dough.\n\nWe have also made it into fun shapes – like a heart at Valentine’s day, Football for the super bowl, etc.\n\n![How to Make Pizza - rolling out pizza dough](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![How to Make Pizza - rolling out pizza dough](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-5.jpg)\n\nThen, transfer the dough to a piece of parchment paper (for ease of transfer from the counter to the oven).\n\nNext, spread a thick layer of sauce over the pizza dough, leaving about a ½ inch border around the pizza (or more if you like more crust).\n\n![How to Make Pizza - spreading sauce on dough](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![How to Make Pizza - spreading sauce on dough](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-10.jpg)\n\n![How to Make Pizza - sauce spread evenly on dough](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![How to Make Pizza - sauce spread evenly on dough](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-11.jpg)\n\nOnce the sauce is spread evenly over the dough, add the cheese.\n\n![How to Make Pizza a hand sprinkling cheese over the sauce ](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![How to Make Pizza a hand sprinkling cheese over the sauce ](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-12.jpg)\n\n![How to Make Pizza cheese on the sauce ](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![How to Make Pizza cheese on the sauce ](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-13.jpg)\n\nIf you are going to include toppings, sprinklings **two layers of cheese** is a trick of the trade to ensure the best pizza ever.\n\nSo, sprinkle a base layer of cheese, then add the toppings, then add the rest of the cheese over the toppings. Trust me, this is **the way** to make pizza.\n\n![How to Make Pizza adding pepperoni on top of a layer of cheese](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![How to Make Pizza adding pepperoni on top of a layer of cheese](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-16.jpg)\n\n![How to Make Pizza adding a layer of cheese over toppings](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![How to Make Pizza adding a layer of cheese over toppings](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-17.jpg)\n### **Topping Suggestions**\nHere are our favorite pizza toppings (besides plain [cheese pizza](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/cheese-pizza-recipe\/), of course)\n\n- **[Pepperoni](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/pepperoni-pizza-recipe\/)**\n- **[Sausage](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/sausage-pizza\/) or Bacon.** Pre-cook the [sausage](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/sausage-pizza\/)\/bacon in a skillet until it’s no longer pink, then add it to the pizza between the layers of cheese.\n- **Pineapple & Ham**\n- **Vegetables**: Bell Peppers, onion, olives, mushrooms, tomatoes spinach, etc.\n- **Fresh Herbs.** Basil, parsley, cilantro (especially with [BBQ chicken](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/crockpot-bbq-chicken\/)), etc.\n- Use leftover **[BBQ chicken](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/bbq-chicken-marinade\/)** to make [BBQ Chicken Pizza](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/bbq-chicken-pizza\/)\n### Cook\nNow, use a [pizza peel](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3jHFrvk) or [flat cookie sheet](https:\/\/amzn.to\/4adVlCP) to transfer the assembled pizza from the counter to the oven. Gently lift up one side of the parchment paper and slide the [peel](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3jHFrvk) under the paper.\n\n![homemade pizza on a pizza peel before baking](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![homemade pizza on a pizza peel before baking](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-8.jpg)\n\nThen, carefully transfer the parchment paper and pizza to the preheated stone in the oven.\n\n![homemade pizza recipe baking on a pizza stone in the oven right after being put in](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%20800'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![homemade pizza recipe baking on a pizza stone in the oven right after being put in](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-9.jpg)\n\nBake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is completely melted.\n\nIf desired, remove the parchment paper halfway through baking (once the crust has firmed up) by giving it a quick tug.\n\n## Watch the pizza carefully\nTowards the end of the baking time the pizza changes very quickly. It can go from almost done to too brown in a flash.\n\n![homemade pizza finished baking on a pizza stone int he oven ](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%20800'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![homemade pizza finished baking on a pizza stone int he oven ](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-10.jpg)\n### **Cool**\nOnce the pizza has finished cooking, use a [pizza peel](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3jHFrvk) or [flat cookie sheet](https:\/\/amzn.to\/4adVlCP) to remove it from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool for at least 10 minutes.\n\nLetting it cool slightly makes it easier to cut *and* prevents anyone from burning their mouths on hot pizza sauce\\!\n\n![Homemade Pizza Recipe on a pizza peel after baking](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![Homemade Pizza Recipe on a pizza peel after baking](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-14.jpg)\n\n![Homemade Pizza Recipe on a wire cooling rack](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![Homemade Pizza Recipe on a wire cooling rack](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-15.jpg)\n## Serve\nYou can transfer the pizza to a cutting board and use a pizza cutter to slice it. However, we prefer to use **[pizza scissors](https:\/\/amzn.to\/48bsjCh)** to cut our homemade pizza.\n\nThey changed our lives (especially having to cut pizza for babies for so many years) and I highly recommend [purchasing a pair.](https:\/\/amzn.to\/48bsjCh)\n\nWe love serving pizza with this [burrata salad](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/burrata-salad\/), [panzanella salad](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/panzanella-salad-recipe\/) or [fruit salad](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/summer-fruit-salad\/).\n\n![Homemade Pizza being cut with pizza scissors](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201680'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![Homemade Pizza being cut with pizza scissors](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-13.jpg)\n## Store\nLet the leftover homemade pizza cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.\n\n![a slice of Homemade Pizza](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201680'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![a slice of Homemade Pizza](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-17.jpg)\n## Freeze\nLet the cheese pizza cool completely before storing in a single layer in an airtight container. It will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator. You can also freeze it for up to 1 month.\n\n## **Reheat**\nReheat in the microwave or in the oven set to warm, or in a saucepan with a lid over medium heat (this helps re-crisp the crust)\n\n![a slice of Homemade Pizza Recipe with a bite taken out of it](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201200'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![a slice of Homemade Pizza Recipe with a bite taken out of it](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-19.jpg)\n## Homemade Pizza Recipe FAQs\n**What are the steps to make a pizza?**\n\nHere’s an overview:   \nMake the dough & sauce  \nRoll out the dough  \nSpread the sauce over the pizza  \nSpread cheese & toppings over the sauce  \nBake, cool & serve\\!\n\n**How to make a good pizza at home?**\n\nUse the [best pizza dough](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-dough\/) and [sauce](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe\/) and bake on a [pizza stone.](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3TfOIdb)\n\n**What pizza toppings need to be cooked first?**\n\n[Sausage](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/sausage-pizza\/) and bacon need to be cooked before adding to pizza.\n\n**Do you put cheese on pizza first or last?**\n\nI suggest adding *two layers* of cheese for the best homemade pizza. Add one layer, then toppings, then a second layer.\n\n**What is the best cheese for pizza?**\n\nMozzarella is the absolute best. You can also use cheddar cheese, goat cheese, etc.\n\n**Which sauce is best for pizza?**\n\nI suggest making your own [homemade pizza sauce](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe\/) for the best results.\n\n![a homemade pizza cut into 8 triangular pieces ](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201680'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![a homemade pizza cut into 8 triangular pieces ](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-16.jpg)\n\nIf you make and love my recipes, it would mean so much to me if you would leave a comment and rating! And don’t forget to follow along on [Instagram](https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/joyfoodsunshine\/), [Pinterest](https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/joyfoodsunshine\/_saved\/), [Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/joyfoodsunshine), [TikTok](https:\/\/www.tiktok.com\/@joyfoodsunshine) and [Youtube](https:\/\/youtube.com\/@joyfoodsunshine) – be sure to tag @joyfoodsunshine and use the hashtag \\#joyfoodsunshine so I can see your creations\\!\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%2090%2090'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/themes\/joyfoodsunshine-2023\/assets\/icons\/logo\/recipe-card.svg)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20300%20300'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-14-300x300.jpg)\n\n[Save](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/)[Saved](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/) [Pin](https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/pin\/create\/bookmarklet\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fjoyfoodsunshine.com%2Fhomemade-pizza-recipe%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fjoyfoodsunshine.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F02%2Fhow-to-make-pizza-recipe-14.jpg&description=&is_video=false) [Print](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wprm_print\/homemade-pizza-recipe)\n\n## Homemade Pizza Recipe\n[Laura](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/about-laura\/)\n\nLearn how to make pizza at home with this easy and delicious homemade pizza recipe. Use [homemade pizza dough](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-dough\/) and [pizza sauce](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe\/) to make the *best* pizza in 30 minutes – flat\\!\n\n5 from 6 votes\n\nCourse Main Course\n\nCuisine American, Italian\n\nServings 16 Servings\n\nCalories 135\n\nPrep Time15 minutes minutes\n\nCook Time15 minutes minutes\n\nCooling10 minutes minutes\n\nTotal Time40 minutes minutes\n\n### Equipment\n- [pizza stone](https:\/\/amzlink.to\/az0POfXahrlKH)\n- [Pizza Peel](https:\/\/amzlink.to\/az0IfwBz3ldvr)\n- [Pizza scissors](https:\/\/amzlink.to\/az0l57AxYrxbY)\n- [Parchment Paper](https:\/\/amzlink.to\/az0e1HAvwbn07)\n- [rolling pin](https:\/\/amzlink.to\/az03sY2A1UJ1r)\n- [Pizza Cutter](https:\/\/amzn.to\/2NEb3OS)\n- [14″ Pizza Pan](https:\/\/amzlink.to\/az0arHBDE6xT9) (instead of a pizza stone)\n- [Flat-edge cookie sheet](https:\/\/amzn.to\/4adVlCP) (instead of a pizza peel)\n\n### Ingredients 1x 2x 3x\n- ▢\n  [Pizza Dough](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/\\(https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-dough\/\\))\n- ▢\n  [Pizza Sauce](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe\/)\n- ▢\n  3 Cups [Mozzarella Cheese](https:\/\/amzlink.to\/az098U1lL73h4)\n\n#### Toppings (optional)\\*\n- ▢\n  pepperoni, sausage, olives, vegetables, pineapple, etc.\n\n### Instructions\n#### Make the Pizza Dough (or use store bought).\n- Proof the yeast in water with sugar.\n- Then add the wet ingredients and stir to combine.\n- Next add the dry ingredients\n- Add flour slowly until the mixture forms a slightly tacky ball.\n- Then knead until it’s smooth.\n- If desired, let it rise before rolling if you prefer – this results in a fluffier crust (rising is not required with this dough recipe\n\n#### Make the Pizza Sauce (or use store bought).\n- Combine all the sauce ingredients in the recipe linked in a medium bowl.\n- Preheat the Pizza Stone\n- Before assembling the pizza, you need to preheat the oven and warm the pizza stone. Put the stone in the oven as it preheats, and let it warm at 500 degrees F for at least 10 minutes before cooking the pizza.\n\n#### Assemble the Pizza\n- Roll out the pizza dough into your desired shape. We have a round pizza stone, so we form a round circle of dough.\n- Then, transfer the dough to a piece of parchment paper.\n- Spread a thick layer of sauce over the pizza dough, leaving about a ½ inch border around the pizza (or more if you like more crust).\n- Sprinkle a layer of cheese evenly over the sauce.\n- If you are going to include toppings, sprinkle a base layer of cheese, then add the toppings, then add the rest of the cheese over the toppings.\n\n#### Bake, Cool & Serve\n- Use a pizza peel or flat cookie sheet to transfer the assembled pizza from the counter to the pizza stone in the oven. Gently lift up one side of the parchment paper and slide the peel under the paper.\n- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is completely melted.\n- Once the pizza has finished cooking, use a pizza peel or flat cookie sheet to remove it from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool for at least 10 minutes.\n- Once slightly cooled, cut and serve.\n\n### Notes\n**Ingredient Notes & Substitutions**\n\n- **[Pizza dough.](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-dough\/)** I suggest making this [homemade pizza dough recipe](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-dough\/) – it’s made with 5 ingredients in 5 minutes and doesn’t require rising (although that is an option). Or try this [whole wheat pizza dough recipe.](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/whole-wheat-pizza-dough\/) You can also use store-bought pizza dough if you’d prefer.\n- **[Pizza sauce.](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe\/)**  nothing beats this [homemade pizza sauce recipe](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe\/). It’s easy to make in 5 minutes and doesn’t require cooking. In a pinch you can use [store-bought pizza sauce](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3JWMtqD) too\\!\n- **Mozzarella Cheese.** You will need 3-4 cups of mozzarella cheese, depending on how cheesy you like your pizza.\n\n**\\*Topping Suggestions**\n\n- **Pepperoni**\n- **Sausage or Bacon.** Pre-cook the sausage\/bacon in a skillet until it’s no longer pink, then add it to the pizza between the layers of cheese.\n- **Pineapple & Ham**\n- **Vegetables**: Bell Peppers, onion, olives, mushrooms, tomatoes spinach, etc.\n- **Fresh Herbs.** Basil, parsley, cilantro (especially with [BBQ chicken](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/crockpot-bbq-chicken\/)), etc.\n- Use leftover **[BBQ chicken](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/bbq-chicken-marinade\/)** to make [BBQ Chicken Pizza](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/bbq-chicken-pizza\/)\n\n**If I don’t have a Pizza Stone?**\n\nIf you don’t have a pizza stone, you can use a [pizza pan](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3lofgdB). and preheat it in the oven.\n\n### Nutrition\nServing: 1slice \\| Calories: 135kcal \\| Carbohydrates: 15g \\| Protein: 7g \\| Fat: 6g \\| Saturated Fat: 3g \\| Polyunsaturated Fat: 0\\.4g \\| Monounsaturated Fat: 1g \\| Cholesterol: 17mg \\| Sodium: 450mg \\| Potassium: 95mg \\| Fiber: 1g \\| Sugar: 3g \\| Vitamin A: 257IU \\| Vitamin C: 2mg \\| Calcium: 110mg \\| Iron: 1mg\n\nNutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.\n\nDid you enjoy this recipe? Have a question? Leave a comment below\\!\n\n## Try these Recipes\n[![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20378%20378'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/easy-homemade-pizza-dough-recipe-2-1-378x378.jpg)](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-dough\/)\n\n### [Easy Homemade Pizza Dough Recipe](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-dough\/)\n\n[![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20378%20378'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/best-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe-1-378x378.jpg)](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe\/)\n\n### [Easy Homemade Pizza Sauce Recipe (5- Minutes)](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe\/)\n\n[![Pepperoni Pizza Recipe](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20378%20378'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![Pepperoni Pizza Recipe](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/homemade-pepperoni-pizza-recipe-2-378x378.jpg)](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/pepperoni-pizza-recipe\/)\n\n### [Pepperoni Pizza Recipe](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/pepperoni-pizza-recipe\/)\n\n[![Homemade Cheese Pizza](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20378%20378'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![Homemade Cheese Pizza](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/best-cheese-pizza-recipe-1-378x378.jpg)](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/cheese-pizza-recipe\/)\n\n### [Cheese Pizza Recipe](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/cheese-pizza-recipe\/)\n\n[![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20378%20378'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/french-bread-pizza-recipe-7-378x378.jpg)](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/french-bread-pizza\/)\n\n### [French Bread Pizza](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/french-bread-pizza\/)\n\n[![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20378%20378'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/sausage-pizza-recipe-17-378x378.jpg)](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/sausage-pizza\/)\n\n### [Sausage Pizza](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/sausage-pizza\/)\n\n[More pizza recipes](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/category\/pizza\/)\n\n![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20150%20150'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/homemade-pizza-recipe-pinterest-150x150.png)\n\nShare\n\n[Pin](https:\/\/pinterest.com\/pin\/create\/button\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fjoyfoodsunshine.com%2Fhomemade-pizza-recipe%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fjoyfoodsunshine.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F12%2Fhomemade-pizza-recipe-pinterest.png&description=Learn+how+to+make+pizza+at+home+with+this+easy+and+delicious+homemade+pizza+recipe.+Use+homemade+pizza+dough+and+pizza+sauce+to+make+the+best+pizza+in+30+minutes+-+flat%21+ \"Share on Pinterest\")\n\n[Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/sharer\/sharer.php?u=https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/&display=popup&ref=plugin&src=share_button \"Share on 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Cookies](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/chocolate-chip-cashew-cookies\/)\n\n[![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20378%20378'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/strawberry-sauce-recipe-1x1-1-378x378.jpg)](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/strawberry-sauce-recipe\/)\n\n### [Strawberry Sauce](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/strawberry-sauce-recipe\/)\n\n[![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20378%20378'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/banana-bread-french-toast-recipe-2-378x378.jpg)](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/banana-bread-french-toast\/)\n\n### [Banana Bread French Toast](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/banana-bread-french-toast\/)\n\n[![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20378%20378'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/easy-homemade-strawberry-cake-recipe-3-378x378.jpg)](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/strawberry-cake\/)\n\n### [Strawberry Cake](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/strawberry-cake\/)\n\n5 from 6 votes ([2 ratings without comment](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/))\n\n## Post a Comment or Ask a Question! [Cancel reply](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#respond)\n## 17 Comments\n1. **Jane** says:\n   \n   [March 29, 2026 at 6:19 am](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-165834)\n   \n   ![5 stars](data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODdhAQABAPAAAP\/\/\/wAAACwAAAAAAQABAEACAkQBADs=)  \n    I was buying frozen pizzas because my homemade just didn’t turn out. This recipe was a game changer. Now Pizza Night has become a ‘thing’ at our house. The crust is easy and turns out perfectly, the sauce is fantastic ‘annd super easy to make, and the tip about adding the toppings between layers of cheese is brilliant. No more toppings sliding off the sauce. (We are in the More is Better camp so always have at least 3 or 4 toppings!). Thank you so much\\!\n   \n   [Reply](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-165834)\n   1. **Laura** says:\n      \n      [March 29, 2026 at 8:15 am](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-165846)\n      \n      I’m so happy that you started making pizza at home because of this recipe! Saves so much money and is better than takeout! More cheese is always a good choice! 🙂\n      \n      [Reply](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-165846)\n2. **Jules** says:\n   \n   [February 23, 2026 at 1:54 pm](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-162854)\n   \n   ![5 stars](data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODdhAQABAPAAAP\/\/\/wAAACwAAAAAAQABAEACAkQBADs=)  \n    This recipe was AMAZING! I’ve already made four times and it never fails. I made some with dairy free cheese and turned out perfect! I would definitely recommend this recipe\\!  \n    Thank you so much for sharing.\n   \n   [Reply](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-162854)\n   1. **Laura** says:\n      \n      [February 24, 2026 at 2:52 pm](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-162888)\n      \n      Thank you Jules!\\!\n      \n      [Reply](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-162888)\n3. **Jen** says:\n   \n   [January 26, 2026 at 9:40 am](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-160660)\n   \n   Do you cook the pizza at 500°?\n   \n   [Reply](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-160660)\n   1. **Laura** says:\n      \n      [January 26, 2026 at 3:53 pm](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-160706)\n      \n      Yes.\n      \n      [Reply](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-160706)\n4. **Chrissy Fitzgerald** says:\n   \n   [October 4, 2025 at 5:19 pm](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-148171)\n   \n   ![5 stars](data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODdhAQABAPAAAP\/\/\/wAAACwAAAAAAQABAEACAkQBADs=)  \n    5 Stars across the board! The dough was delicious and easy to work. I adapted the sauce to what I had on hand, excellent! Great double dough Saturday night pizza in Chicago\\!\n   \n   [Reply](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-148171)\n   1. **Laura** says:\n      \n      [October 6, 2025 at 8:34 am](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-148301)\n      \n      Thank you Chrissy\\!\n      \n      [Reply](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-148301)\n5. **Joan** says:\n   \n   [August 13, 2025 at 5:48 am](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-141959)\n   \n   Hmm, I understand using the stone but do you take the dough OFF the parchment paper before transferring it to the stone?  \n    Thanks, it looks great\\!\n   \n   [Reply](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-141959)\n   1. **Laura** says:\n      \n      [August 13, 2025 at 3:22 pm](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-141985)\n      \n      Nope! If you want, you can yank the parchment paper out from under the pizza after it has baked for about 5 minutes.\n      \n      [Reply](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-141985)\n6. **Wasi Badamio** says:\n   \n   [August 6, 2025 at 4:41 am](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-141393)\n   \n   ![5 stars](data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODdhAQABAPAAAP\/\/\/wAAACwAAAAAAQABAEACAkQBADs=)  \n    Absolutely loved this recipe\\!\n   \n   [Reply](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-141393)\n7. **KIM** says:\n   \n   [February 20, 2025 at 6:57 am](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-127039)\n   \n   Do you use double 00 flour or all purpose flour? THANK YOU!!\\!\n   \n   [Reply](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-127039)\n   1. **Laura** says:\n      \n      [February 22, 2025 at 2:41 pm](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-127220)\n      \n      You can use either! I have used both, but most often use all-purpose flour.\n      \n      [Reply](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-127220)\n8. **Nancy** says:\n   \n   [August 21, 2024 at 4:58 pm](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-117418)\n   \n   At what point could you freeze the pizza dough\n   \n   [Reply](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-117418)\n9. **Girlsaidwhat** says:\n   \n   [February 29, 2024 at 10:09 pm](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-110490)\n   \n   Going to try this tonight. Dough was made last night using your recipe, sauce will be made in a few minutes (your recipe as well). We don’t have a pizza stone or pizza pan so we’ll just be preheating a cookie sheet. No wire cooling rack, not sure how we’ll compensate. Fingers crossed\\!\n   \n   [Reply](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-110490)\n10. **Jenn** says:\n    \n    [January 31, 2024 at 8:01 am](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-108753)\n    \n    Would this pizza crust recipe work in a wood fired oven where the pizza cooks in about 4 minutes?\n    \n    [Reply](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-108753)\n    1. **Laura** says:\n       \n       [February 1, 2024 at 9:52 am](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-108788)\n       \n       Yes definitely\\!\n       \n       [Reply](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#comment-108788)\n\n![](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/2024-family-photo-scaled.jpg)\n\nAbout JoyFoodSunshine\n\nI’m Laura, a former chemistry teacher, homeschool mom of 6 and recipe creator here at JoyFoodSunshine - where you will find simple and delicious recipes that are tested and perfected to make cooking and baking joyful and fun\\!\n\n[Read more about JoyFoodSunshine](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/about\/)\n\n## Popular\n[![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20378%20378'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/best-chocolate-chip-cookies-recipe-1-378x378.jpg)](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/the-most-amazing-chocolate-chip-cookies\/)\n\n### [The Best Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe Ever](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/the-most-amazing-chocolate-chip-cookies\/)\n\n[![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20378%20378'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/easy-homemade-mac-and-cheese-recipe-1x1-1-378x378.jpg)](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-mac-and-cheese\/)\n\n### [Easy Homemade Mac and Cheese](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-mac-and-cheese\/)\n\n[![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20378%20378'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/best-cinnamon-rolls-recipe-square-378x378.jpg)](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/cinnamon-rolls-recipe\/)\n\n### [Best Cinnamon Rolls Recipe (Better than Cinnabon)](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/cinnamon-rolls-recipe\/)\n\n[![Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20378%20378'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/asian-chicken-lettuce-wraps-2-e1564869964220-378x378.jpg)](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/asian-chicken-lettuce-wraps\/)\n\n### [Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps (Better than P.F. Chang’s)\\!](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/asian-chicken-lettuce-wraps\/)\n\n[Back to top](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/#top)\n\n[JoyFoodSunshine](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/)\n\n©2026 JoyFoodSunshine. All rights reserved. [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/privacy-policy\/) • Powered by [CultivateWP](https:\/\/cultivatewp.com\/).\n## Rate This Recipe\n## Recipe Ratings without Comment\nSomething went wrong. Please try again.","attrs_readable_markdown":"Learn how to make pizza at home with this easy and delicious homemade pizza recipe. Use [homemade pizza dough](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-dough\/) and [pizza sauce](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe\/) to make the *best* pizza in 30 minutes – flat\\!\n\n![a round homemade Pizza on a pizza peel](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-14.jpg)\n\nIn my years of experience working at a Chicago pizzeria, I learned how to make the **best** pizza! So, I took my experience & pizza knowledge and created this **homemade pizza recipe** for you\\!\n\nWe moved away from Chicago, to a sate that is *not* known for it’s delicious pies, so we make this homemade pizza recipe weekly.\n\nIn this post, you will learn how to make pizza at home using the [*best* homemade pizza dough](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-dough\/) and [pizza sauce](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe\/) recipes. I will also share all my tips and tricks so your homemade pizza turns out perfectly every single time.\n\n![a triangular slice of homemade Pizza ](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-15.jpg)\n\n## **Homemade Pizza Recipe: Ingredients**\n![overhead photo of the labeled ingredients used to make this homemade pizza recipe](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/how-to-make-pizza-ingredients.jpg)\n\n- **[Pizza dough.](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-dough\/)** I suggest making this [homemade pizza dough recipe](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-dough\/) – it’s made with 5 ingredients in 5 minutes and doesn’t require rising (although that is an option). Or try this [whole wheat pizza dough recipe.](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/whole-wheat-pizza-dough\/) You can also use store-bought pizza dough if you’d prefer.\n- **[Pizza sauce.](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe\/)**  nothing beats this [homemade pizza sauce recipe](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe\/). It’s easy to make in 5 minutes and doesn’t require cooking. In a pinch you can use [store-bought pizza sauce](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3JWMtqD) too\\!\n- **Mozzarella Cheese.** You will need 3-4 cups of mozzarella cheese, depending on how cheesy you like your pizza.\n- **Toppings:** I give many topping options in the recipe card, such as but not limited to: sausage ([sausage pizza recipe](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/sausage-pizza\/)), pepperoni (see this [pepperoni pizza recipe](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/pepperoni-pizza-recipe\/)), cheese ([cheese pizza recipe](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/cheese-pizza-recipe\/)), pineapple, ham, [barbecue chicken](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/bbq-chicken-pizza\/), vegetables, etc.\n\n![3 slices of homemade Pizza Recipe, one with a bite taken out of it](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-18.jpg)\n\n## Homemade Pizza Equipment\n- **[Pizza stone.](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3HNkarW)** Using a [pizza stone](https:\/\/amzn.to\/48b9aAl) is a sure-fire way to get restaurant quality pies without needing a fancy pizza oven.\n- Use a [**Pizza peel**](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3jHFrvk) or a a [**flat-rimmed baking sheet**](https:\/\/amzn.to\/4adVlCP) to easily transport the homemade pizza in and out of the oven.\n- [**Parchment paper.**](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3uRibAc) Assembling the pizza on parchment paper ensures it’s easy to transport and that it doesn’t stick.\n- **[Pizza Scissors.](https:\/\/amzn.to\/46ir6bh)** pizza-cutting ***game changer***. You can cut the pizza right on the cooling rack [with scissors\\!](https:\/\/amzn.to\/46ir6bh) And they make it easy to cut a piece into smaller pieces for younger children.\n- **[Wire Cooling Rack.](https:\/\/amzn.to\/463lyBG)**  a [large, round cooling rack](https:\/\/amzn.to\/463lyBG) is perfect for pizzas.\n- **[Rolling Pin.](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3t3lvXU)**  I suggest a [marble rolling pin](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3t3lvXU) for easy [pizza dough](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-dough\/) rolling.\n\n![overhead photo of the labeled equipment used to make this homemade pizza recipe](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/how-to-make-pizza-equipment.jpg)\n\nNow, we will walk through how to make homemade pizza. Remember all steps are simplified by using store-bought ingredients.\n\n### Make the [Pizza Dough](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-dough\/)\nBegin by making the dough. It’s very simple to make – check out this post – **[pizza dough recipe](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-dough\/)** – for detailed step-by-step instructions.\n\nBegin by proofing the yeast in water with sugar.\n\nThen add the wet ingredients and stir to combine.\n\nNext add the dry ingredients\n\nAdd flour slowly until the mixture forms a slightly tacky ball.\n\nThen knead until it’s smooth.\n\nLet it rise before rolling if you prefer – this results in a fluffier crust.\n\n![How to Make Pizza dough formed into a ball](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-7.jpg)\n\n### Make the [Pizza Sauce](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe\/)\nI often like to make the [pizza sauce](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe\/) long before dinnertime and let it sit at room temperature. It’s easy to prepare in advance. Or, make it while the dough is rising.\n\nTo make the sauce, simply combine all the ingredients in a medium bowl and whisk or stir until smooth. You can reference this post: Homemade [Pizza Sauce Recipe](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe\/) for more tips and detailed instructions.\n\nMore\n\n### Heat a [Pizza Stone](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3HNkarW)\nBefore you begin assembling the pizza, you need to preheat the oven and warm the [pizza stone](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3HNkarW). Put the stone in the oven as it preheats, and let it warm at 500 degrees F for at least 10 minutes before cooking the pizza.\n\nIf you aren’t one of the few that actually has a real pizza oven at home, using a [pizza stone](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3HNkarW) is a key step when it comes to making authentic, homemade pizza.\n\nPutting the pizza directly on a hot surface ensures the bottom crust crisps nicely without over-browning the cheese.\n\n## What if I don’t have a pizza stone?\nIf you don’t have a pizza stone, you can use a [pizza pan](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3lofgdB). and preheat it in the oven.\n\n![How to Make Pizza - a pizza stone preheating in an oven](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-4.jpg)\n\n### Assemble the Homemade Pizza\nNow that your dough and sauce are ready to go and your stone is preheating, let’s assemble our pizza recipe.\n\nBegin by rolling out the pizza dough into your desired shape. We have a round pizza stone, so we form a round circle of dough.\n\nWe have also made it into fun shapes – like a heart at Valentine’s day, Football for the super bowl, etc.\n\n![How to Make Pizza - rolling out pizza dough](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-5.jpg)\n\nThen, transfer the dough to a piece of parchment paper (for ease of transfer from the counter to the oven).\n\nNext, spread a thick layer of sauce over the pizza dough, leaving about a ½ inch border around the pizza (or more if you like more crust).\n\nOnce the sauce is spread evenly over the dough, add the cheese.\n\nIf you are going to include toppings, sprinklings **two layers of cheese** is a trick of the trade to ensure the best pizza ever.\n\nSo, sprinkle a base layer of cheese, then add the toppings, then add the rest of the cheese over the toppings. Trust me, this is **the way** to make pizza.\n\n### **Topping Suggestions**\nHere are our favorite pizza toppings (besides plain [cheese pizza](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/cheese-pizza-recipe\/), of course)\n\n- **[Pepperoni](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/pepperoni-pizza-recipe\/)**\n- **[Sausage](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/sausage-pizza\/) or Bacon.** Pre-cook the [sausage](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/sausage-pizza\/)\/bacon in a skillet until it’s no longer pink, then add it to the pizza between the layers of cheese.\n- **Pineapple & Ham**\n- **Vegetables**: Bell Peppers, onion, olives, mushrooms, tomatoes spinach, etc.\n- **Fresh Herbs.** Basil, parsley, cilantro (especially with [BBQ chicken](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/crockpot-bbq-chicken\/)), etc.\n- Use leftover **[BBQ chicken](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/bbq-chicken-marinade\/)** to make [BBQ Chicken Pizza](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/bbq-chicken-pizza\/)\n### Cook\nNow, use a [pizza peel](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3jHFrvk) or [flat cookie sheet](https:\/\/amzn.to\/4adVlCP) to transfer the assembled pizza from the counter to the oven. Gently lift up one side of the parchment paper and slide the [peel](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3jHFrvk) under the paper.\n\n![homemade pizza on a pizza peel before baking](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-8.jpg)\n\nThen, carefully transfer the parchment paper and pizza to the preheated stone in the oven.\n\n![homemade pizza recipe baking on a pizza stone in the oven right after being put in](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-9.jpg)\n\nBake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is completely melted.\n\nIf desired, remove the parchment paper halfway through baking (once the crust has firmed up) by giving it a quick tug.\n\n## Watch the pizza carefully\nTowards the end of the baking time the pizza changes very quickly. It can go from almost done to too brown in a flash.\n\n![homemade pizza finished baking on a pizza stone int he oven ](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-10.jpg)\n\n### **Cool**\nOnce the pizza has finished cooking, use a [pizza peel](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3jHFrvk) or [flat cookie sheet](https:\/\/amzn.to\/4adVlCP) to remove it from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool for at least 10 minutes.\n\nLetting it cool slightly makes it easier to cut *and* prevents anyone from burning their mouths on hot pizza sauce\\!\n\n## Serve\nYou can transfer the pizza to a cutting board and use a pizza cutter to slice it. However, we prefer to use **[pizza scissors](https:\/\/amzn.to\/48bsjCh)** to cut our homemade pizza.\n\nThey changed our lives (especially having to cut pizza for babies for so many years) and I highly recommend [purchasing a pair.](https:\/\/amzn.to\/48bsjCh)\n\nWe love serving pizza with this [burrata salad](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/burrata-salad\/), [panzanella salad](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/panzanella-salad-recipe\/) or [fruit salad](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/summer-fruit-salad\/).\n\n![Homemade Pizza being cut with pizza scissors](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-13.jpg)\n\n## Store\nLet the leftover homemade pizza cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.\n\n![a slice of Homemade Pizza](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-17.jpg)\n\n## Freeze\nLet the cheese pizza cool completely before storing in a single layer in an airtight container. It will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator. You can also freeze it for up to 1 month.\n\n## **Reheat**\nReheat in the microwave or in the oven set to warm, or in a saucepan with a lid over medium heat (this helps re-crisp the crust)\n\n![a slice of Homemade Pizza Recipe with a bite taken out of it](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-19.jpg)\n\n## Homemade Pizza Recipe FAQs\n**What are the steps to make a pizza?**\n\nHere’s an overview:   \nMake the dough & sauce  \nRoll out the dough  \nSpread the sauce over the pizza  \nSpread cheese & toppings over the sauce  \nBake, cool & serve\\!\n\n**What pizza toppings need to be cooked first?**\n\n[Sausage](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/sausage-pizza\/) and bacon need to be cooked before adding to pizza.\n\n**Do you put cheese on pizza first or last?**\n\nI suggest adding *two layers* of cheese for the best homemade pizza. Add one layer, then toppings, then a second layer.\n\n**What is the best cheese for pizza?**\n\nMozzarella is the absolute best. You can also use cheddar cheese, goat cheese, etc.\n\n![a homemade pizza cut into 8 triangular pieces ](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-16.jpg)\n\nIf you make and love my recipes, it would mean so much to me if you would leave a comment and rating! And don’t forget to follow along on [Instagram](https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/joyfoodsunshine\/), [Pinterest](https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/joyfoodsunshine\/_saved\/), [Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/joyfoodsunshine), [TikTok](https:\/\/www.tiktok.com\/@joyfoodsunshine) and [Youtube](https:\/\/youtube.com\/@joyfoodsunshine) – be sure to tag @joyfoodsunshine and use the hashtag \\#joyfoodsunshine so I can see your creations\\!\n\n- ▢\n  [Pizza Dough](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/homemade-pizza-recipe\/\\(https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-dough\/\\))\n- ▢\n  [Pizza Sauce](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe\/)\n- ▢\n  3 Cups [Mozzarella Cheese](https:\/\/amzlink.to\/az098U1lL73h4)\n\n#### Toppings (optional)\\*\n- ▢\n  pepperoni, sausage, olives, vegetables, pineapple, etc.\n\n#### Make the Pizza Dough (or use store bought).\n- Proof the yeast in water with sugar.\n- Then add the wet ingredients and stir to combine.\n- Next add the dry ingredients\n- Add flour slowly until the mixture forms a slightly tacky ball.\n- Then knead until it’s smooth.\n- If desired, let it rise before rolling if you prefer – this results in a fluffier crust (rising is not required with this dough recipe\n\n#### Make the Pizza Sauce (or use store bought).\n- Combine all the sauce ingredients in the recipe linked in a medium bowl.\n- Preheat the Pizza Stone\n- Before assembling the pizza, you need to preheat the oven and warm the pizza stone. Put the stone in the oven as it preheats, and let it warm at 500 degrees F for at least 10 minutes before cooking the pizza.\n\n#### Assemble the Pizza\n- Roll out the pizza dough into your desired shape. We have a round pizza stone, so we form a round circle of dough.\n- Then, transfer the dough to a piece of parchment paper.\n- Spread a thick layer of sauce over the pizza dough, leaving about a ½ inch border around the pizza (or more if you like more crust).\n- Sprinkle a layer of cheese evenly over the sauce.\n- If you are going to include toppings, sprinkle a base layer of cheese, then add the toppings, then add the rest of the cheese over the toppings.\n\n#### Bake, Cool & Serve\n- Use a pizza peel or flat cookie sheet to transfer the assembled pizza from the counter to the pizza stone in the oven. Gently lift up one side of the parchment paper and slide the peel under the paper.\n- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is completely melted.\n- Once the pizza has finished cooking, use a pizza peel or flat cookie sheet to remove it from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool for at least 10 minutes.\n- Once slightly cooled, cut and serve.\n\n**Ingredient Notes & Substitutions**\n\n- **[Pizza dough.](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-dough\/)** I suggest making this [homemade pizza dough recipe](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-dough\/) – it’s made with 5 ingredients in 5 minutes and doesn’t require rising (although that is an option). Or try this [whole wheat pizza dough recipe.](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/whole-wheat-pizza-dough\/) You can also use store-bought pizza dough if you’d prefer.\n- **[Pizza sauce.](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe\/)**  nothing beats this [homemade pizza sauce recipe](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe\/). It’s easy to make in 5 minutes and doesn’t require cooking. In a pinch you can use [store-bought pizza sauce](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3JWMtqD) too\\!\n- **Mozzarella Cheese.** You will need 3-4 cups of mozzarella cheese, depending on how cheesy you like your pizza.\n\n**\\*Topping Suggestions**\n\n- **Pepperoni**\n- **Sausage or Bacon.** Pre-cook the sausage\/bacon in a skillet until it’s no longer pink, then add it to the pizza between the layers of cheese.\n- **Pineapple & Ham**\n- **Vegetables**: Bell Peppers, onion, olives, mushrooms, tomatoes spinach, etc.\n- **Fresh Herbs.** Basil, parsley, cilantro (especially with [BBQ chicken](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/crockpot-bbq-chicken\/)), etc.\n- Use leftover **[BBQ chicken](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/bbq-chicken-marinade\/)** to make [BBQ Chicken Pizza](https:\/\/joyfoodsunshine.com\/bbq-chicken-pizza\/)\n\n**If I don’t have a Pizza Stone?**\n\nIf you don’t have a pizza stone, you can use a [pizza pan](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3lofgdB). and preheat it in the oven.\n\nServing: 1slice \\| Calories: 135kcal \\| Carbohydrates: 15g \\| Protein: 7g \\| Fat: 6g \\| Saturated Fat: 3g \\| Polyunsaturated Fat: 0\\.4g \\| Monounsaturated Fat: 1g \\| Cholesterol: 17mg \\| Sodium: 450mg \\| Potassium: 95mg \\| Fiber: 1g \\| Sugar: 3g \\| Vitamin A: 257IU \\| Vitamin C: 2mg \\| Calcium: 110mg \\| Iron: 1mg\n\nNutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.\n\nTry these Recipes","meta_canonical":null}

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Meta Title	How to Make Pizza (Pizza Recipe) - JoyFoodSunshine
Meta Description	Learn how to make pizza at home with this easy and delicious homemade pizza recipe that only takes 30 minutes to make!
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Boilerpipe Text	Learn how to make pizza at home with this easy and delicious homemade pizza recipe. Use homemade pizza dough and pizza sauce to make the best pizza in 30 minutes – flat! In my years of experience working at a Chicago pizzeria, I learned how to make the best pizza! So, I took my experience & pizza knowledge and created this homemade pizza recipe for you! We moved away from Chicago, to a sate that is not known for it’s delicious pies, so we make this homemade pizza recipe weekly. In this post, you will learn how to make pizza at home using the best homemade pizza dough and pizza sauce recipes. I will also share all my tips and tricks so your homemade pizza turns out perfectly every single time. Homemade Pizza Recipe: Ingredients Pizza dough. I suggest making this homemade pizza dough recipe – it’s made with 5 ingredients in 5 minutes and doesn’t require rising (although that is an option). Or try this whole wheat pizza dough recipe. You can also use store-bought pizza dough if you’d prefer. Pizza sauce. nothing beats this homemade pizza sauce recipe . It’s easy to make in 5 minutes and doesn’t require cooking. In a pinch you can use store-bought pizza sauce too! Mozzarella Cheese. You will need 3-4 cups of mozzarella cheese, depending on how cheesy you like your pizza. Toppings: I give many topping options in the recipe card, such as but not limited to: sausage ( sausage pizza recipe ), pepperoni (see this pepperoni pizza recipe ), cheese ( cheese pizza recipe ), pineapple, ham, barbecue chicken , vegetables, etc. Homemade Pizza Equipment Pizza stone. Using a pizza stone is a sure-fire way to get restaurant quality pies without needing a fancy pizza oven. Use a Pizza peel or a a flat-rimmed baking sheet to easily transport the homemade pizza in and out of the oven. Parchment paper. Assembling the pizza on parchment paper ensures it’s easy to transport and that it doesn’t stick. Pizza Scissors. pizza-cutting game changer . You can cut the pizza right on the cooling rack with scissors! And they make it easy to cut a piece into smaller pieces for younger children. Wire Cooling Rack. a large, round cooling rack is perfect for pizzas. Rolling Pin. I suggest a marble rolling pin for easy pizza dough rolling. Now, we will walk through how to make homemade pizza. Remember all steps are simplified by using store-bought ingredients. Make the Pizza Dough Begin by making the dough. It’s very simple to make – check out this post – pizza dough recipe – for detailed step-by-step instructions. Begin by proofing the yeast in water with sugar. Then add the wet ingredients and stir to combine. Next add the dry ingredients Add flour slowly until the mixture forms a slightly tacky ball. Then knead until it’s smooth. Let it rise before rolling if you prefer – this results in a fluffier crust. Make the Pizza Sauce I often like to make the pizza sauce long before dinnertime and let it sit at room temperature. It’s easy to prepare in advance. Or, make it while the dough is rising. To make the sauce, simply combine all the ingredients in a medium bowl and whisk or stir until smooth. You can reference this post: Homemade Pizza Sauce Recipe for more tips and detailed instructions. More Heat a Pizza Stone Before you begin assembling the pizza, you need to preheat the oven and warm the pizza stone . Put the stone in the oven as it preheats, and let it warm at 500 degrees F for at least 10 minutes before cooking the pizza. If you aren’t one of the few that actually has a real pizza oven at home, using a pizza stone is a key step when it comes to making authentic, homemade pizza. Putting the pizza directly on a hot surface ensures the bottom crust crisps nicely without over-browning the cheese. What if I don’t have a pizza stone? If you don’t have a pizza stone, you can use a pizza pan . and preheat it in the oven. Assemble the Homemade Pizza Now that your dough and sauce are ready to go and your stone is preheating, let’s assemble our pizza recipe. Begin by rolling out the pizza dough into your desired shape. We have a round pizza stone, so we form a round circle of dough. We have also made it into fun shapes – like a heart at Valentine’s day, Football for the super bowl, etc. Then, transfer the dough to a piece of parchment paper (for ease of transfer from the counter to the oven). Next, spread a thick layer of sauce over the pizza dough, leaving about a ½ inch border around the pizza (or more if you like more crust). Once the sauce is spread evenly over the dough, add the cheese. If you are going to include toppings, sprinklings two layers of cheese is a trick of the trade to ensure the best pizza ever. So, sprinkle a base layer of cheese, then add the toppings, then add the rest of the cheese over the toppings. Trust me, this is the way to make pizza. Topping Suggestions Here are our favorite pizza toppings (besides plain cheese pizza , of course) Pepperoni Sausage or Bacon. Pre-cook the sausage /bacon in a skillet until it’s no longer pink, then add it to the pizza between the layers of cheese. Pineapple & Ham Vegetables : Bell Peppers, onion, olives, mushrooms, tomatoes spinach, etc. Fresh Herbs. Basil, parsley, cilantro (especially with BBQ chicken ), etc. Use leftover BBQ chicken to make BBQ Chicken Pizza Cook Now, use a pizza peel or flat cookie sheet to transfer the assembled pizza from the counter to the oven. Gently lift up one side of the parchment paper and slide the peel under the paper. Then, carefully transfer the parchment paper and pizza to the preheated stone in the oven. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is completely melted. If desired, remove the parchment paper halfway through baking (once the crust has firmed up) by giving it a quick tug. Watch the pizza carefully Towards the end of the baking time the pizza changes very quickly. It can go from almost done to too brown in a flash. Cool Once the pizza has finished cooking, use a pizza peel or flat cookie sheet to remove it from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool for at least 10 minutes. Letting it cool slightly makes it easier to cut and prevents anyone from burning their mouths on hot pizza sauce! Serve You can transfer the pizza to a cutting board and use a pizza cutter to slice it. However, we prefer to use pizza scissors to cut our homemade pizza. They changed our lives (especially having to cut pizza for babies for so many years) and I highly recommend purchasing a pair. We love serving pizza with this burrata salad , panzanella salad or fruit salad . Store Let the leftover homemade pizza cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Freeze Let the cheese pizza cool completely before storing in a single layer in an airtight container. It will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator. You can also freeze it for up to 1 month. Reheat Reheat in the microwave or in the oven set to warm, or in a saucepan with a lid over medium heat (this helps re-crisp the crust) Homemade Pizza Recipe FAQs What are the steps to make a pizza? Here’s an overview: Make the dough & sauce Roll out the dough Spread the sauce over the pizza Spread cheese & toppings over the sauce Bake, cool & serve! What pizza toppings need to be cooked first? Sausage and bacon need to be cooked before adding to pizza. Do you put cheese on pizza first or last? I suggest adding two layers of cheese for the best homemade pizza. Add one layer, then toppings, then a second layer. What is the best cheese for pizza? Mozzarella is the absolute best. You can also use cheddar cheese, goat cheese, etc. If you make and love my recipes, it would mean so much to me if you would leave a comment and rating! And don’t forget to follow along on Instagram , Pinterest , Facebook , TikTok and Youtube – be sure to tag @joyfoodsunshine and use the hashtag #joyfoodsunshine so I can see your creations! ▢ Pizza Dough ▢ Pizza Sauce ▢ 3 Cups Mozzarella Cheese Toppings (optional)* ▢ pepperoni, sausage, olives, vegetables, pineapple, etc. Make the Pizza Dough (or use store bought). Proof the yeast in water with sugar. Then add the wet ingredients and stir to combine. Next add the dry ingredients Add flour slowly until the mixture forms a slightly tacky ball. Then knead until it’s smooth. If desired, let it rise before rolling if you prefer – this results in a fluffier crust (rising is not required with this dough recipe Make the Pizza Sauce (or use store bought). Combine all the sauce ingredients in the recipe linked in a medium bowl. Preheat the Pizza Stone Before assembling the pizza, you need to preheat the oven and warm the pizza stone. Put the stone in the oven as it preheats, and let it warm at 500 degrees F for at least 10 minutes before cooking the pizza. Assemble the Pizza Roll out the pizza dough into your desired shape. We have a round pizza stone, so we form a round circle of dough. Then, transfer the dough to a piece of parchment paper. Spread a thick layer of sauce over the pizza dough, leaving about a ½ inch border around the pizza (or more if you like more crust). Sprinkle a layer of cheese evenly over the sauce. If you are going to include toppings, sprinkle a base layer of cheese, then add the toppings, then add the rest of the cheese over the toppings. Bake, Cool & Serve Use a pizza peel or flat cookie sheet to transfer the assembled pizza from the counter to the pizza stone in the oven. Gently lift up one side of the parchment paper and slide the peel under the paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is completely melted. Once the pizza has finished cooking, use a pizza peel or flat cookie sheet to remove it from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool for at least 10 minutes. Once slightly cooled, cut and serve. Ingredient Notes & Substitutions Pizza dough. I suggest making this homemade pizza dough recipe – it’s made with 5 ingredients in 5 minutes and doesn’t require rising (although that is an option). Or try this whole wheat pizza dough recipe. You can also use store-bought pizza dough if you’d prefer. Pizza sauce. nothing beats this homemade pizza sauce recipe . It’s easy to make in 5 minutes and doesn’t require cooking. In a pinch you can use store-bought pizza sauce too! Mozzarella Cheese. You will need 3-4 cups of mozzarella cheese, depending on how cheesy you like your pizza. *Topping Suggestions Pepperoni Sausage or Bacon. Pre-cook the sausage/bacon in a skillet until it’s no longer pink, then add it to the pizza between the layers of cheese. Pineapple & Ham Vegetables : Bell Peppers, onion, olives, mushrooms, tomatoes spinach, etc. Fresh Herbs. Basil, parsley, cilantro (especially with BBQ chicken ), etc. Use leftover BBQ chicken to make BBQ Chicken Pizza If I don’t have a Pizza Stone? If you don’t have a pizza stone, you can use a pizza pan . and preheat it in the oven. Serving: 1 slice \| Calories: 135 kcal \| Carbohydrates: 15 g \| Protein: 7 g \| Fat: 6 g \| Saturated Fat: 3 g \| Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4 g \| Monounsaturated Fat: 1 g \| Cholesterol: 17 mg \| Sodium: 450 mg \| Potassium: 95 mg \| Fiber: 1 g \| Sugar: 3 g \| Vitamin A: 257 IU \| Vitamin C: 2 mg \| Calcium: 110 mg \| Iron: 1 mg Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation. Try these Recipes
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Please read our [disclosure policy](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/privacy-policy/). Learn how to make pizza at home with this easy and delicious homemade pizza recipe. Use [homemade pizza dough](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-dough/) and [pizza sauce](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe/) to make the best pizza in 30 minutes – flat\! ![a round homemade Pizza on a pizza peel](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-14.jpg) In my years of experience working at a Chicago pizzeria, I learned how to make the best pizza! So, I took my experience & pizza knowledge and created this homemade pizza recipe for you\! We moved away from Chicago, to a sate that is not known for it’s delicious pies, so we make this homemade pizza recipe weekly. In this post, you will learn how to make pizza at home using the [best homemade pizza dough](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-dough/) and [pizza sauce](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe/) recipes. I will also share all my tips and tricks so your homemade pizza turns out perfectly every single time. ![a triangular slice of homemade Pizza ](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201680'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![a triangular slice of homemade Pizza ](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-15.jpg) ## Homemade Pizza Recipe: Ingredients ![overhead photo of the labeled ingredients used to make this homemade pizza recipe](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%20800'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![overhead photo of the labeled ingredients used to make this homemade pizza recipe](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/how-to-make-pizza-ingredients.jpg) - [Pizza dough.](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-dough/) I suggest making this [homemade pizza dough recipe](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-dough/) – it’s made with 5 ingredients in 5 minutes and doesn’t require rising (although that is an option). Or try this [whole wheat pizza dough recipe.](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/whole-wheat-pizza-dough/) You can also use store-bought pizza dough if you’d prefer. - [Pizza sauce.](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe/) nothing beats this [homemade pizza sauce recipe](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe/). It’s easy to make in 5 minutes and doesn’t require cooking. In a pinch you can use [store-bought pizza sauce](https://amzn.to/3JWMtqD) too\! - Mozzarella Cheese. You will need 3-4 cups of mozzarella cheese, depending on how cheesy you like your pizza. - Toppings: I give many topping options in the recipe card, such as but not limited to: sausage ([sausage pizza recipe](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/sausage-pizza/)), pepperoni (see this [pepperoni pizza recipe](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/pepperoni-pizza-recipe/)), cheese ([cheese pizza recipe](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/cheese-pizza-recipe/)), pineapple, ham, [barbecue chicken](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/bbq-chicken-pizza/), vegetables, etc. ![3 slices of homemade Pizza Recipe, one with a bite taken out of it](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201200'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![3 slices of homemade Pizza Recipe, one with a bite taken out of it](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-18.jpg) ## Homemade Pizza Equipment - [Pizza stone.](https://amzn.to/3HNkarW) Using a [pizza stone](https://amzn.to/48b9aAl) is a sure-fire way to get restaurant quality pies without needing a fancy pizza oven. - Use a [Pizza peel](https://amzn.to/3jHFrvk) or a a [flat-rimmed baking sheet](https://amzn.to/4adVlCP) to easily transport the homemade pizza in and out of the oven. - [Parchment paper.](https://amzn.to/3uRibAc) Assembling the pizza on parchment paper ensures it’s easy to transport and that it doesn’t stick. - [Pizza Scissors.](https://amzn.to/46ir6bh) pizza-cutting *game changer. You can cut the pizza right on the cooling rack [with scissors\!](https://amzn.to/46ir6bh) And they make it easy to cut a piece into smaller pieces for younger children. - [Wire Cooling Rack.](https://amzn.to/463lyBG)* a [large, round cooling rack](https://amzn.to/463lyBG) is perfect for pizzas. - [Rolling Pin.](https://amzn.to/3t3lvXU) I suggest a [marble rolling pin](https://amzn.to/3t3lvXU) for easy [pizza dough](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-dough/) rolling. ![overhead photo of the labeled equipment used to make this homemade pizza recipe](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%20800'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![overhead photo of the labeled equipment used to make this homemade pizza recipe](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/how-to-make-pizza-equipment.jpg) ## How to Make Pizza Now, we will walk through how to make homemade pizza. Remember all steps are simplified by using store-bought ingredients. ### Make the [Pizza Dough](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-dough/) Begin by making the dough. It’s very simple to make – check out this post – [pizza dough recipe](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-dough/) – for detailed step-by-step instructions. Begin by proofing the yeast in water with sugar. ![How to Make Pizza -proofing yeast for dough](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201499'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![How to Make Pizza -proofing yeast for dough](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-1.jpg) ![How to Make Pizza -proofing yeast for dough](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![How to Make Pizza -proofing yeast for dough](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-2.jpg) Then add the wet ingredients and stir to combine. ![How to Make Pizza adding wet ingredients to dough ](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![How to Make Pizza adding wet ingredients to dough ](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-3.jpg) ![How to Make Pizza adding wet ingredients to dough ](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![How to Make Pizza adding wet ingredients to dough ](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-4.jpg) Next add the dry ingredients Add flour slowly until the mixture forms a slightly tacky ball. ![How to Make Pizza stirring dough](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![How to Make Pizza stirring dough](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-5.jpg) ![How to Make Pizza stirring dough](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![How to Make Pizza stirring dough](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-6.jpg) Then knead until it’s smooth. Let it rise before rolling if you prefer – this results in a fluffier crust. ![How to Make Pizza dough formed into a ball](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![How to Make Pizza dough formed into a ball](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-7.jpg) ### Make the [Pizza Sauce](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe/) I often like to make the [pizza sauce](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe/) long before dinnertime and let it sit at room temperature. It’s easy to prepare in advance. Or, make it while the dough is rising. To make the sauce, simply combine all the ingredients in a medium bowl and whisk or stir until smooth. You can reference this post: Homemade [Pizza Sauce Recipe](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe/) for more tips and detailed instructions. More ![How to Make Pizza - sauce ingredients in a bowl before stirring](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![How to Make Pizza - sauce ingredients in a bowl before stirring](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-8.jpg) ![How to Make Pizza - sauce ingredients combined in a bowl](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![How to Make Pizza - sauce ingredients combined in a bowl](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-9.jpg) ### Heat a [Pizza Stone](https://amzn.to/3HNkarW) Before you begin assembling the pizza, you need to preheat the oven and warm the [pizza stone](https://amzn.to/3HNkarW). Put the stone in the oven as it preheats, and let it warm at 500 degrees F for at least 10 minutes before cooking the pizza. If you aren’t one of the few that actually has a real pizza oven at home, using a [pizza stone](https://amzn.to/3HNkarW) is a key step when it comes to making authentic, homemade pizza. Putting the pizza directly on a hot surface ensures the bottom crust crisps nicely without over-browning the cheese. ## What if I don’t have a pizza stone? If you don’t have a pizza stone, you can use a [pizza pan](https://amzn.to/3lofgdB). and preheat it in the oven. ![How to Make Pizza - a pizza stone preheating in an oven](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%20800'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![How to Make Pizza - a pizza stone preheating in an oven](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-4.jpg) ### Assemble the Homemade Pizza Now that your dough and sauce are ready to go and your stone is preheating, let’s assemble our pizza recipe. Begin by rolling out the pizza dough into your desired shape. We have a round pizza stone, so we form a round circle of dough. We have also made it into fun shapes – like a heart at Valentine’s day, Football for the super bowl, etc. ![How to Make Pizza - rolling out pizza dough](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![How to Make Pizza - rolling out pizza dough](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-5.jpg) Then, transfer the dough to a piece of parchment paper (for ease of transfer from the counter to the oven). Next, spread a thick layer of sauce over the pizza dough, leaving about a ½ inch border around the pizza (or more if you like more crust). ![How to Make Pizza - spreading sauce on dough](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![How to Make Pizza - spreading sauce on dough](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-10.jpg) ![How to Make Pizza - sauce spread evenly on dough](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![How to Make Pizza - sauce spread evenly on dough](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-11.jpg) Once the sauce is spread evenly over the dough, add the cheese. ![How to Make Pizza a hand sprinkling cheese over the sauce ](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![How to Make Pizza a hand sprinkling cheese over the sauce ](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-12.jpg) ![How to Make Pizza cheese on the sauce ](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![How to Make Pizza cheese on the sauce ](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-13.jpg) If you are going to include toppings, sprinklings two layers of cheese is a trick of the trade to ensure the best pizza ever. So, sprinkle a base layer of cheese, then add the toppings, then add the rest of the cheese over the toppings. Trust me, this is the way to make pizza. ![How to Make Pizza adding pepperoni on top of a layer of cheese](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![How to Make Pizza adding pepperoni on top of a layer of cheese](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-16.jpg) ![How to Make Pizza adding a layer of cheese over toppings](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![How to Make Pizza adding a layer of cheese over toppings](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-17.jpg) ### Topping Suggestions Here are our favorite pizza toppings (besides plain [cheese pizza](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/cheese-pizza-recipe/), of course) - [Pepperoni](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/pepperoni-pizza-recipe/) - [Sausage](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/sausage-pizza/) or Bacon. Pre-cook the [sausage](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/sausage-pizza/)/bacon in a skillet until it’s no longer pink, then add it to the pizza between the layers of cheese. - Pineapple & Ham - Vegetables: Bell Peppers, onion, olives, mushrooms, tomatoes spinach, etc. - Fresh Herbs. Basil, parsley, cilantro (especially with [BBQ chicken](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/crockpot-bbq-chicken/)), etc. - Use leftover [BBQ chicken](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/bbq-chicken-marinade/) to make [BBQ Chicken Pizza](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/bbq-chicken-pizza/) ### Cook Now, use a [pizza peel](https://amzn.to/3jHFrvk) or [flat cookie sheet](https://amzn.to/4adVlCP) to transfer the assembled pizza from the counter to the oven. Gently lift up one side of the parchment paper and slide the [peel](https://amzn.to/3jHFrvk) under the paper. ![homemade pizza on a pizza peel before baking](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![homemade pizza on a pizza peel before baking](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-8.jpg) Then, carefully transfer the parchment paper and pizza to the preheated stone in the oven. ![homemade pizza recipe baking on a pizza stone in the oven right after being put in](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%20800'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![homemade pizza recipe baking on a pizza stone in the oven right after being put in](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-9.jpg) Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is completely melted. If desired, remove the parchment paper halfway through baking (once the crust has firmed up) by giving it a quick tug. ## Watch the pizza carefully Towards the end of the baking time the pizza changes very quickly. It can go from almost done to too brown in a flash. ![homemade pizza finished baking on a pizza stone int he oven ](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%20800'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![homemade pizza finished baking on a pizza stone int he oven ](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-10.jpg) ### Cool Once the pizza has finished cooking, use a [pizza peel](https://amzn.to/3jHFrvk) or [flat cookie sheet](https://amzn.to/4adVlCP) to remove it from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool for at least 10 minutes. Letting it cool slightly makes it easier to cut and prevents anyone from burning their mouths on hot pizza sauce\! ![Homemade Pizza Recipe on a pizza peel after baking](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Homemade Pizza Recipe on a pizza peel after baking](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-14.jpg) ![Homemade Pizza Recipe on a wire cooling rack](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201500'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Homemade Pizza Recipe on a wire cooling rack](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-15.jpg) ## Serve You can transfer the pizza to a cutting board and use a pizza cutter to slice it. However, we prefer to use [pizza scissors](https://amzn.to/48bsjCh) to cut our homemade pizza. They changed our lives (especially having to cut pizza for babies for so many years) and I highly recommend [purchasing a pair.](https://amzn.to/48bsjCh) We love serving pizza with this [burrata salad](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/burrata-salad/), [panzanella salad](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/panzanella-salad-recipe/) or [fruit salad](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/summer-fruit-salad/). ![Homemade Pizza being cut with pizza scissors](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201680'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Homemade Pizza being cut with pizza scissors](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-13.jpg) ## Store Let the leftover homemade pizza cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. ![a slice of Homemade Pizza](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201680'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![a slice of Homemade Pizza](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-17.jpg) ## Freeze Let the cheese pizza cool completely before storing in a single layer in an airtight container. It will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator. You can also freeze it for up to 1 month. ## Reheat Reheat in the microwave or in the oven set to warm, or in a saucepan with a lid over medium heat (this helps re-crisp the crust) ![a slice of Homemade Pizza Recipe with a bite taken out of it](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201200'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![a slice of Homemade Pizza Recipe with a bite taken out of it](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-19.jpg) ## Homemade Pizza Recipe FAQs What are the steps to make a pizza? Here’s an overview: Make the dough & sauce Roll out the dough Spread the sauce over the pizza Spread cheese & toppings over the sauce Bake, cool & serve\! How to make a good pizza at home? Use the [best pizza dough](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-dough/) and [sauce](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe/) and bake on a [pizza stone.](https://amzn.to/3TfOIdb) What pizza toppings need to be cooked first? [Sausage](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/sausage-pizza/) and bacon need to be cooked before adding to pizza. Do you put cheese on pizza first or last? I suggest adding two layers of cheese for the best homemade pizza. Add one layer, then toppings, then a second layer. What is the best cheese for pizza? Mozzarella is the absolute best. You can also use cheddar cheese, goat cheese, etc. Which sauce is best for pizza? I suggest making your own [homemade pizza sauce](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe/) for the best results. ![a homemade pizza cut into 8 triangular pieces ](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%201200%201680'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![a homemade pizza cut into 8 triangular pieces ](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-16.jpg) If you make and love my recipes, it would mean so much to me if you would leave a comment and rating! And don’t forget to follow along on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/joyfoodsunshine/), [Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/joyfoodsunshine/_saved/), [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/joyfoodsunshine), [TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@joyfoodsunshine) and [Youtube](https://youtube.com/@joyfoodsunshine) – be sure to tag @joyfoodsunshine and use the hashtag \#joyfoodsunshine so I can see your creations\! ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%2090%2090'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/themes/joyfoodsunshine-2023/assets/icons/logo/recipe-card.svg) ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20300%20300'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-14-300x300.jpg) [Save](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/)[Saved](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/) [Pin](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/bookmarklet/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fjoyfoodsunshine.com%2Fhomemade-pizza-recipe%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fjoyfoodsunshine.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F02%2Fhow-to-make-pizza-recipe-14.jpg&description=&is_video=false) [Print](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wprm_print/homemade-pizza-recipe) ## Homemade Pizza Recipe [Laura](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/about-laura/) Learn how to make pizza at home with this easy and delicious homemade pizza recipe. Use [homemade pizza dough](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-dough/) and [pizza sauce](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe/) to make the best pizza in 30 minutes – flat\! 5 from 6 votes Course Main Course Cuisine American, Italian Servings 16 Servings Calories 135 Prep Time15 minutes minutes Cook Time15 minutes minutes Cooling10 minutes minutes Total Time40 minutes minutes ### Equipment - [pizza stone](https://amzlink.to/az0POfXahrlKH) - [Pizza Peel](https://amzlink.to/az0IfwBz3ldvr) - [Pizza scissors](https://amzlink.to/az0l57AxYrxbY) - [Parchment Paper](https://amzlink.to/az0e1HAvwbn07) - [rolling pin](https://amzlink.to/az03sY2A1UJ1r) - [Pizza Cutter](https://amzn.to/2NEb3OS) - [14″ Pizza Pan](https://amzlink.to/az0arHBDE6xT9) (instead of a pizza stone) - [Flat-edge cookie sheet](https://amzn.to/4adVlCP) (instead of a pizza peel) ### Ingredients 1x 2x 3x - ▢ [Pizza Dough](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/\(https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-dough/\)) - ▢ [Pizza Sauce](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe/) - ▢ 3 Cups [Mozzarella Cheese](https://amzlink.to/az098U1lL73h4) #### Toppings (optional)\* - ▢ pepperoni, sausage, olives, vegetables, pineapple, etc. ### Instructions #### Make the Pizza Dough (or use store bought). - Proof the yeast in water with sugar. - Then add the wet ingredients and stir to combine. - Next add the dry ingredients - Add flour slowly until the mixture forms a slightly tacky ball. - Then knead until it’s smooth. - If desired, let it rise before rolling if you prefer – this results in a fluffier crust (rising is not required with this dough recipe #### Make the Pizza Sauce (or use store bought). - Combine all the sauce ingredients in the recipe linked in a medium bowl. - Preheat the Pizza Stone - Before assembling the pizza, you need to preheat the oven and warm the pizza stone. Put the stone in the oven as it preheats, and let it warm at 500 degrees F for at least 10 minutes before cooking the pizza. #### Assemble the Pizza - Roll out the pizza dough into your desired shape. We have a round pizza stone, so we form a round circle of dough. - Then, transfer the dough to a piece of parchment paper. - Spread a thick layer of sauce over the pizza dough, leaving about a ½ inch border around the pizza (or more if you like more crust). - Sprinkle a layer of cheese evenly over the sauce. - If you are going to include toppings, sprinkle a base layer of cheese, then add the toppings, then add the rest of the cheese over the toppings. #### Bake, Cool & Serve - Use a pizza peel or flat cookie sheet to transfer the assembled pizza from the counter to the pizza stone in the oven. Gently lift up one side of the parchment paper and slide the peel under the paper. - Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is completely melted. - Once the pizza has finished cooking, use a pizza peel or flat cookie sheet to remove it from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool for at least 10 minutes. - Once slightly cooled, cut and serve. ### Notes Ingredient Notes & Substitutions - [Pizza dough.](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-dough/) I suggest making this [homemade pizza dough recipe](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-dough/) – it’s made with 5 ingredients in 5 minutes and doesn’t require rising (although that is an option). Or try this [whole wheat pizza dough recipe.](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/whole-wheat-pizza-dough/) You can also use store-bought pizza dough if you’d prefer. - [Pizza sauce.](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe/) nothing beats this [homemade pizza sauce recipe](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe/). It’s easy to make in 5 minutes and doesn’t require cooking. In a pinch you can use [store-bought pizza sauce](https://amzn.to/3JWMtqD) too\! - Mozzarella Cheese. You will need 3-4 cups of mozzarella cheese, depending on how cheesy you like your pizza. *\Topping Suggestions - Pepperoni - Sausage or Bacon. Pre-cook the sausage/bacon in a skillet until it’s no longer pink, then add it to the pizza between the layers of cheese. - Pineapple & Ham - Vegetables: Bell Peppers, onion, olives, mushrooms, tomatoes spinach, etc. - Fresh Herbs. Basil, parsley, cilantro (especially with [BBQ chicken](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/crockpot-bbq-chicken/)), etc. - Use leftover [BBQ chicken](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/bbq-chicken-marinade/) to make [BBQ Chicken Pizza](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/bbq-chicken-pizza/) If I don’t have a Pizza Stone? If you don’t have a pizza stone, you can use a [pizza pan](https://amzn.to/3lofgdB). and preheat it in the oven. ### Nutrition Serving: 1slice \\| Calories: 135kcal \\| Carbohydrates: 15g \\| Protein: 7g \\| Fat: 6g \\| Saturated Fat: 3g \\| Polyunsaturated Fat: 0\.4g \\| Monounsaturated Fat: 1g \\| Cholesterol: 17mg \\| Sodium: 450mg \\| Potassium: 95mg \\| Fiber: 1g \\| Sugar: 3g \\| Vitamin A: 257IU \\| Vitamin C: 2mg \\| Calcium: 110mg \\| Iron: 1mg Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation. Did you enjoy this recipe? Have a question? Leave a comment below\! ## Try these Recipes [![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20378%20378'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/easy-homemade-pizza-dough-recipe-2-1-378x378.jpg)](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-dough/) ### [Easy Homemade Pizza Dough Recipe](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-dough/) [![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20378%20378'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/best-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe-1-378x378.jpg)](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe/) ### [Easy Homemade Pizza Sauce Recipe (5- Minutes)](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe/) [![Pepperoni Pizza Recipe](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20378%20378'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![Pepperoni Pizza Recipe](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/homemade-pepperoni-pizza-recipe-2-378x378.jpg)](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/pepperoni-pizza-recipe/) ### [Pepperoni Pizza Recipe](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/pepperoni-pizza-recipe/) [![Homemade Cheese Pizza](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20378%20378'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![Homemade Cheese Pizza](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/best-cheese-pizza-recipe-1-378x378.jpg)](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/cheese-pizza-recipe/) ### [Cheese Pizza Recipe](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/cheese-pizza-recipe/) [![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20378%20378'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/french-bread-pizza-recipe-7-378x378.jpg)](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/french-bread-pizza/) ### [French Bread Pizza](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/french-bread-pizza/) [![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20378%20378'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/sausage-pizza-recipe-17-378x378.jpg)](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/sausage-pizza/) ### [Sausage Pizza](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/sausage-pizza/) [More pizza recipes](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/category/pizza/) ![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20150%20150'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/homemade-pizza-recipe-pinterest-150x150.png) Share [Pin](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fjoyfoodsunshine.com%2Fhomemade-pizza-recipe%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fjoyfoodsunshine.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F12%2Fhomemade-pizza-recipe-pinterest.png&description=Learn+how+to+make+pizza+at+home+with+this+easy+and+delicious+homemade+pizza+recipe.+Use+homemade+pizza+dough+and+pizza+sauce+to+make+the+best+pizza+in+30+minutes+-+flat%21+ "Share on Pinterest") [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/&display=popup&ref=plugin&src=share_button "Share on Facebook") [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share?url=https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/&text=How%20to%20Make%20Pizza%20%28Pizza%20Recipe%29 "Share on Twitter") [Yummly](https://www.yummly.com/urb/verify?url=https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/&title=How%20to%20Make%20Pizza%20%28Pizza%20Recipe%29&yumtype=button "Share on Yummly") [Email](mailto:?subject=Your%20friend%20has%20shared%20an%20article%20with%20you.&body=How%20to%20Make%20Pizza%20%28Pizza%20Recipe%29%0D%0Ahttps%3A%2F%2Fjoyfoodsunshine.com%2Fhomemade-pizza-recipe%2F%0D%0A "Share via Email") * ## 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Post a Comment or Ask a Question! [Cancel reply](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#respond) ## 17 Comments 1. Jane says: [March 29, 2026 at 6:19 am](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-165834) ![5 stars](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODdhAQABAPAAAP///wAAACwAAAAAAQABAEACAkQBADs=) I was buying frozen pizzas because my homemade just didn’t turn out. This recipe was a game changer. Now Pizza Night has become a ‘thing’ at our house. The crust is easy and turns out perfectly, the sauce is fantastic ‘annd super easy to make, and the tip about adding the toppings between layers of cheese is brilliant. No more toppings sliding off the sauce. (We are in the More is Better camp so always have at least 3 or 4 toppings!). Thank you so much\! [Reply](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-165834) 1. Laura says: [March 29, 2026 at 8:15 am](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-165846) I’m so happy that you started making pizza at home because of this recipe! Saves so much money and is better than takeout! More cheese is always a good choice! 🙂 [Reply](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-165846) 2. Jules says: [February 23, 2026 at 1:54 pm](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-162854) ![5 stars](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODdhAQABAPAAAP///wAAACwAAAAAAQABAEACAkQBADs=) This recipe was AMAZING! I’ve already made four times and it never fails. I made some with dairy free cheese and turned out perfect! I would definitely recommend this recipe\! Thank you so much for sharing. [Reply](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-162854) 1. Laura says: [February 24, 2026 at 2:52 pm](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-162888) Thank you Jules!\! [Reply](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-162888) 3. Jen says: [January 26, 2026 at 9:40 am](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-160660) Do you cook the pizza at 500°? [Reply](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-160660) 1. Laura says: [January 26, 2026 at 3:53 pm](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-160706) Yes. [Reply](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-160706) 4. Chrissy Fitzgerald says: [October 4, 2025 at 5:19 pm](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-148171) ![5 stars](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODdhAQABAPAAAP///wAAACwAAAAAAQABAEACAkQBADs=) 5 Stars across the board! The dough was delicious and easy to work. I adapted the sauce to what I had on hand, excellent! Great double dough Saturday night pizza in Chicago\! [Reply](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-148171) 1. Laura says: [October 6, 2025 at 8:34 am](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-148301) Thank you Chrissy\! [Reply](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-148301) 5. Joan says: [August 13, 2025 at 5:48 am](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-141959) Hmm, I understand using the stone but do you take the dough OFF the parchment paper before transferring it to the stone? Thanks, it looks great\! [Reply](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-141959) 1. Laura says: [August 13, 2025 at 3:22 pm](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-141985) Nope! If you want, you can yank the parchment paper out from under the pizza after it has baked for about 5 minutes. [Reply](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-141985) 6. Wasi Badamio says: [August 6, 2025 at 4:41 am](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-141393) ![5 stars](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODdhAQABAPAAAP///wAAACwAAAAAAQABAEACAkQBADs=) Absolutely loved this recipe\! [Reply](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-141393) 7. KIM says: [February 20, 2025 at 6:57 am](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-127039) Do you use double 00 flour or all purpose flour? THANK YOU!!\! [Reply](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-127039) 1. Laura says: [February 22, 2025 at 2:41 pm](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-127220) You can use either! I have used both, but most often use all-purpose flour. [Reply](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-127220) 8. Nancy says: [August 21, 2024 at 4:58 pm](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-117418) At what point could you freeze the pizza dough [Reply](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-117418) 9. Girlsaidwhat says: [February 29, 2024 at 10:09 pm](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-110490) Going to try this tonight. Dough was made last night using your recipe, sauce will be made in a few minutes (your recipe as well). We don’t have a pizza stone or pizza pan so we’ll just be preheating a cookie sheet. No wire cooling rack, not sure how we’ll compensate. Fingers crossed\! [Reply](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-110490) 10. Jenn says: [January 31, 2024 at 8:01 am](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-108753) Would this pizza crust recipe work in a wood fired oven where the pizza cooks in about 4 minutes? [Reply](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-108753) 1. Laura says: [February 1, 2024 at 9:52 am](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-108788) Yes definitely\! [Reply](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/#comment-108788) ![](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/2024-family-photo-scaled.jpg) About JoyFoodSunshine I’m Laura, a former chemistry teacher, homeschool mom of 6 and recipe creator here at JoyFoodSunshine - where you will find simple and delicious recipes that are tested and perfected to make cooking and baking joyful and fun\! 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Readable Markdown	Learn how to make pizza at home with this easy and delicious homemade pizza recipe. Use [homemade pizza dough](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-dough/) and [pizza sauce](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe/) to make the best pizza in 30 minutes – flat\! ![a round homemade Pizza on a pizza peel](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-14.jpg) In my years of experience working at a Chicago pizzeria, I learned how to make the best pizza! So, I took my experience & pizza knowledge and created this homemade pizza recipe for you\! We moved away from Chicago, to a sate that is not known for it’s delicious pies, so we make this homemade pizza recipe weekly. In this post, you will learn how to make pizza at home using the [best homemade pizza dough](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-dough/) and [pizza sauce](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe/) recipes. I will also share all my tips and tricks so your homemade pizza turns out perfectly every single time. ![a triangular slice of homemade Pizza ](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-15.jpg) ## Homemade Pizza Recipe: Ingredients ![overhead photo of the labeled ingredients used to make this homemade pizza recipe](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/how-to-make-pizza-ingredients.jpg) - [Pizza dough.](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-dough/) I suggest making this [homemade pizza dough recipe](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-dough/) – it’s made with 5 ingredients in 5 minutes and doesn’t require rising (although that is an option). Or try this [whole wheat pizza dough recipe.](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/whole-wheat-pizza-dough/) You can also use store-bought pizza dough if you’d prefer. - [Pizza sauce.](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe/) nothing beats this [homemade pizza sauce recipe](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe/). It’s easy to make in 5 minutes and doesn’t require cooking. In a pinch you can use [store-bought pizza sauce](https://amzn.to/3JWMtqD) too\! - Mozzarella Cheese. You will need 3-4 cups of mozzarella cheese, depending on how cheesy you like your pizza. - Toppings: I give many topping options in the recipe card, such as but not limited to: sausage ([sausage pizza recipe](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/sausage-pizza/)), pepperoni (see this [pepperoni pizza recipe](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/pepperoni-pizza-recipe/)), cheese ([cheese pizza recipe](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/cheese-pizza-recipe/)), pineapple, ham, [barbecue chicken](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/bbq-chicken-pizza/), vegetables, etc. ![3 slices of homemade Pizza Recipe, one with a bite taken out of it](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-18.jpg) ## Homemade Pizza Equipment - [Pizza stone.](https://amzn.to/3HNkarW) Using a [pizza stone](https://amzn.to/48b9aAl) is a sure-fire way to get restaurant quality pies without needing a fancy pizza oven. - Use a [Pizza peel](https://amzn.to/3jHFrvk) or a a [flat-rimmed baking sheet](https://amzn.to/4adVlCP) to easily transport the homemade pizza in and out of the oven. - [Parchment paper.](https://amzn.to/3uRibAc) Assembling the pizza on parchment paper ensures it’s easy to transport and that it doesn’t stick. - [Pizza Scissors.](https://amzn.to/46ir6bh) pizza-cutting *game changer. You can cut the pizza right on the cooling rack [with scissors\!](https://amzn.to/46ir6bh) And they make it easy to cut a piece into smaller pieces for younger children. - [Wire Cooling Rack.](https://amzn.to/463lyBG)* a [large, round cooling rack](https://amzn.to/463lyBG) is perfect for pizzas. - [Rolling Pin.](https://amzn.to/3t3lvXU) I suggest a [marble rolling pin](https://amzn.to/3t3lvXU) for easy [pizza dough](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-dough/) rolling. ![overhead photo of the labeled equipment used to make this homemade pizza recipe](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/how-to-make-pizza-equipment.jpg) Now, we will walk through how to make homemade pizza. Remember all steps are simplified by using store-bought ingredients. ### Make the [Pizza Dough](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-dough/) Begin by making the dough. It’s very simple to make – check out this post – [pizza dough recipe](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-dough/) – for detailed step-by-step instructions. Begin by proofing the yeast in water with sugar. Then add the wet ingredients and stir to combine. Next add the dry ingredients Add flour slowly until the mixture forms a slightly tacky ball. Then knead until it’s smooth. Let it rise before rolling if you prefer – this results in a fluffier crust. ![How to Make Pizza dough formed into a ball](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-7.jpg) ### Make the [Pizza Sauce](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe/) I often like to make the [pizza sauce](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe/) long before dinnertime and let it sit at room temperature. It’s easy to prepare in advance. Or, make it while the dough is rising. To make the sauce, simply combine all the ingredients in a medium bowl and whisk or stir until smooth. You can reference this post: Homemade [Pizza Sauce Recipe](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe/) for more tips and detailed instructions. More ### Heat a [Pizza Stone](https://amzn.to/3HNkarW) Before you begin assembling the pizza, you need to preheat the oven and warm the [pizza stone](https://amzn.to/3HNkarW). Put the stone in the oven as it preheats, and let it warm at 500 degrees F for at least 10 minutes before cooking the pizza. If you aren’t one of the few that actually has a real pizza oven at home, using a [pizza stone](https://amzn.to/3HNkarW) is a key step when it comes to making authentic, homemade pizza. Putting the pizza directly on a hot surface ensures the bottom crust crisps nicely without over-browning the cheese. ## What if I don’t have a pizza stone? If you don’t have a pizza stone, you can use a [pizza pan](https://amzn.to/3lofgdB). and preheat it in the oven. ![How to Make Pizza - a pizza stone preheating in an oven](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-4.jpg) ### Assemble the Homemade Pizza Now that your dough and sauce are ready to go and your stone is preheating, let’s assemble our pizza recipe. Begin by rolling out the pizza dough into your desired shape. We have a round pizza stone, so we form a round circle of dough. We have also made it into fun shapes – like a heart at Valentine’s day, Football for the super bowl, etc. ![How to Make Pizza - rolling out pizza dough](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-5.jpg) Then, transfer the dough to a piece of parchment paper (for ease of transfer from the counter to the oven). Next, spread a thick layer of sauce over the pizza dough, leaving about a ½ inch border around the pizza (or more if you like more crust). Once the sauce is spread evenly over the dough, add the cheese. If you are going to include toppings, sprinklings two layers of cheese is a trick of the trade to ensure the best pizza ever. So, sprinkle a base layer of cheese, then add the toppings, then add the rest of the cheese over the toppings. Trust me, this is the way to make pizza. ### Topping Suggestions Here are our favorite pizza toppings (besides plain [cheese pizza](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/cheese-pizza-recipe/), of course) - [Pepperoni](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/pepperoni-pizza-recipe/) - [Sausage](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/sausage-pizza/) or Bacon. Pre-cook the [sausage](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/sausage-pizza/)/bacon in a skillet until it’s no longer pink, then add it to the pizza between the layers of cheese. - Pineapple & Ham - Vegetables: Bell Peppers, onion, olives, mushrooms, tomatoes spinach, etc. - Fresh Herbs. Basil, parsley, cilantro (especially with [BBQ chicken](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/crockpot-bbq-chicken/)), etc. - Use leftover [BBQ chicken](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/bbq-chicken-marinade/) to make [BBQ Chicken Pizza](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/bbq-chicken-pizza/) ### Cook Now, use a [pizza peel](https://amzn.to/3jHFrvk) or [flat cookie sheet](https://amzn.to/4adVlCP) to transfer the assembled pizza from the counter to the oven. Gently lift up one side of the parchment paper and slide the [peel](https://amzn.to/3jHFrvk) under the paper. ![homemade pizza on a pizza peel before baking](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-8.jpg) Then, carefully transfer the parchment paper and pizza to the preheated stone in the oven. ![homemade pizza recipe baking on a pizza stone in the oven right after being put in](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-9.jpg) Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is completely melted. If desired, remove the parchment paper halfway through baking (once the crust has firmed up) by giving it a quick tug. ## Watch the pizza carefully Towards the end of the baking time the pizza changes very quickly. It can go from almost done to too brown in a flash. ![homemade pizza finished baking on a pizza stone int he oven ](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-10.jpg) ### Cool Once the pizza has finished cooking, use a [pizza peel](https://amzn.to/3jHFrvk) or [flat cookie sheet](https://amzn.to/4adVlCP) to remove it from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool for at least 10 minutes. Letting it cool slightly makes it easier to cut and prevents anyone from burning their mouths on hot pizza sauce\! ## Serve You can transfer the pizza to a cutting board and use a pizza cutter to slice it. However, we prefer to use [pizza scissors](https://amzn.to/48bsjCh) to cut our homemade pizza. They changed our lives (especially having to cut pizza for babies for so many years) and I highly recommend [purchasing a pair.](https://amzn.to/48bsjCh) We love serving pizza with this [burrata salad](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/burrata-salad/), [panzanella salad](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/panzanella-salad-recipe/) or [fruit salad](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/summer-fruit-salad/). ![Homemade Pizza being cut with pizza scissors](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-13.jpg) ## Store Let the leftover homemade pizza cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. ![a slice of Homemade Pizza](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-17.jpg) ## Freeze Let the cheese pizza cool completely before storing in a single layer in an airtight container. It will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator. You can also freeze it for up to 1 month. ## Reheat Reheat in the microwave or in the oven set to warm, or in a saucepan with a lid over medium heat (this helps re-crisp the crust) ![a slice of Homemade Pizza Recipe with a bite taken out of it](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-19.jpg) ## Homemade Pizza Recipe FAQs What are the steps to make a pizza? Here’s an overview: Make the dough & sauce Roll out the dough Spread the sauce over the pizza Spread cheese & toppings over the sauce Bake, cool & serve\! What pizza toppings need to be cooked first? [Sausage](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/sausage-pizza/) and bacon need to be cooked before adding to pizza. Do you put cheese on pizza first or last? I suggest adding two layers of cheese for the best homemade pizza. Add one layer, then toppings, then a second layer. What is the best cheese for pizza? Mozzarella is the absolute best. You can also use cheddar cheese, goat cheese, etc. ![a homemade pizza cut into 8 triangular pieces ](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/how-to-make-pizza-recipe-16.jpg) If you make and love my recipes, it would mean so much to me if you would leave a comment and rating! And don’t forget to follow along on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/joyfoodsunshine/), [Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/joyfoodsunshine/_saved/), [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/joyfoodsunshine), [TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@joyfoodsunshine) and [Youtube](https://youtube.com/@joyfoodsunshine) – be sure to tag @joyfoodsunshine and use the hashtag \#joyfoodsunshine so I can see your creations\! - ▢ [Pizza Dough](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/homemade-pizza-recipe/\(https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-dough/\)) - ▢ [Pizza Sauce](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe/) - ▢ 3 Cups [Mozzarella Cheese](https://amzlink.to/az098U1lL73h4) #### Toppings (optional)\* - ▢ pepperoni, sausage, olives, vegetables, pineapple, etc. #### Make the Pizza Dough (or use store bought). - Proof the yeast in water with sugar. - Then add the wet ingredients and stir to combine. - Next add the dry ingredients - Add flour slowly until the mixture forms a slightly tacky ball. - Then knead until it’s smooth. - If desired, let it rise before rolling if you prefer – this results in a fluffier crust (rising is not required with this dough recipe #### Make the Pizza Sauce (or use store bought). - Combine all the sauce ingredients in the recipe linked in a medium bowl. - Preheat the Pizza Stone - Before assembling the pizza, you need to preheat the oven and warm the pizza stone. Put the stone in the oven as it preheats, and let it warm at 500 degrees F for at least 10 minutes before cooking the pizza. #### Assemble the Pizza - Roll out the pizza dough into your desired shape. We have a round pizza stone, so we form a round circle of dough. - Then, transfer the dough to a piece of parchment paper. - Spread a thick layer of sauce over the pizza dough, leaving about a ½ inch border around the pizza (or more if you like more crust). - Sprinkle a layer of cheese evenly over the sauce. - If you are going to include toppings, sprinkle a base layer of cheese, then add the toppings, then add the rest of the cheese over the toppings. #### Bake, Cool & Serve - Use a pizza peel or flat cookie sheet to transfer the assembled pizza from the counter to the pizza stone in the oven. Gently lift up one side of the parchment paper and slide the peel under the paper. - Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is completely melted. - Once the pizza has finished cooking, use a pizza peel or flat cookie sheet to remove it from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool for at least 10 minutes. - Once slightly cooled, cut and serve. Ingredient Notes & Substitutions - [Pizza dough.](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-dough/) I suggest making this [homemade pizza dough recipe](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-dough/) – it’s made with 5 ingredients in 5 minutes and doesn’t require rising (although that is an option). Or try this [whole wheat pizza dough recipe.](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/whole-wheat-pizza-dough/) You can also use store-bought pizza dough if you’d prefer. - [Pizza sauce.](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe/) nothing beats this [homemade pizza sauce recipe](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/easy-homemade-pizza-sauce-recipe/). It’s easy to make in 5 minutes and doesn’t require cooking. In a pinch you can use [store-bought pizza sauce](https://amzn.to/3JWMtqD) too\! - Mozzarella Cheese. You will need 3-4 cups of mozzarella cheese, depending on how cheesy you like your pizza. *\Topping Suggestions - Pepperoni - Sausage or Bacon. Pre-cook the sausage/bacon in a skillet until it’s no longer pink, then add it to the pizza between the layers of cheese. - Pineapple & Ham - Vegetables: Bell Peppers, onion, olives, mushrooms, tomatoes spinach, etc. - Fresh Herbs. Basil, parsley, cilantro (especially with [BBQ chicken](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/crockpot-bbq-chicken/)), etc. - Use leftover [BBQ chicken](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/bbq-chicken-marinade/) to make [BBQ Chicken Pizza](https://joyfoodsunshine.com/bbq-chicken-pizza/) If I don’t have a Pizza Stone?** If you don’t have a pizza stone, you can use a [pizza pan](https://amzn.to/3lofgdB). and preheat it in the oven. Serving: 1slice \\| Calories: 135kcal \\| Carbohydrates: 15g \\| Protein: 7g \\| Fat: 6g \\| Saturated Fat: 3g \\| Polyunsaturated Fat: 0\.4g \\| Monounsaturated Fat: 1g \\| Cholesterol: 17mg \\| Sodium: 450mg \\| Potassium: 95mg \\| Fiber: 1g \\| Sugar: 3g \\| Vitamin A: 257IU \\| Vitamin C: 2mg \\| Calcium: 110mg \\| Iron: 1mg Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation. Try these Recipes
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