Homemade Pizza Recipe

Make the dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add the warm water and olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Knead: Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should bounce back when you poke it.

First rise: Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise at room temperature for 1-2 hours until doubled. For a 72-hour rise, refrigerate immediately after kneading.

Make the sauce: Combine crushed tomatoes, garlic, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir and taste. No cooking needed, the oven does the rest.

Preheat: Set your oven to 475°F. If you have a pizza stone or baking steel, place it in the oven while preheating for at least 45 minutes.

Shape: Punch down the risen dough and divide into 2 portions for two 12-inch pizzas or leave whole for one large pie. Stretch gently by hand or use a rolling pin on a floured surface.

Build your pizza: Transfer the shaped dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet or a floured pizza peel. Spread sauce to within 1/2 inch of the edge, add cheese, then toppings.

Bake: Bake at 475°F for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly with light brown spots.

Finish: Remove from the oven, top with fresh basil, slice, and serve immediately.