Best Cheese Pizza

There’s nothing quite like a classic cheese pizza, with its golden crust, bubbling cheese, and rich sauce. This recipe captures the essence of this beloved dish, making it easy for you to replicate the vibrant flavors of your favorite pizzeria right in your own kitchen.

Why Make This Recipe

Making your own cheese pizza not only allows for customization of toppings but also provides a delightful and engaging culinary experience. The aroma of freshly baked dough wafting through your kitchen can evoke nostalgic memories of family gatherings and cozy nights in. Plus, crafting your own pizza gives you complete control over the ingredients, ensuring that you use only the freshest and best quality.

How to Make Best Cheese Pizza

Making a perfect cheese pizza at home is simpler than you might think. With just a few basic ingredients and steps, you’ll have a delicious pizza to enjoy. Let’s dive right into the recipe!

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon instant yeast
3/4 cup warm water
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup pizza sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil

Directions

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
Add warm water and olive oil; mix until dough forms.
Knead dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
Let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C).
Roll out the dough and place it on a pizza stone or baking sheet.
Spread pizza sauce over the dough.
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top and add oregano and basil.
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
Remove from oven, slice, and enjoy!

How to Serve Best Cheese Pizza

Once your pizza is out of the oven, it’s best served hot. You can cut it into classic triangles or squares, depending on your preference. For an added touch, consider garnishing each slice with fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil. Pair it with a fresh salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Best Cheese Pizza

If you find yourself with leftover pizza, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, for up to two months. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Tips to Make Best Cheese Pizza

For a crispier crust, try pre-baking the dough for about 5 minutes before adding the sauce and toppings.
Use a pizza stone for the best heat distribution, which helps achieve that pizzeria-style crust.
Don’t overload on sauce or cheese, as it can lead to a soggy pizza.

Variation

Feel free to get creative with your cheese choices! Adding a blend of cheeses like provolone or parmesan can enhance the flavor profile. You can also experiment with toppings such as pepperoni, vegetables, or fresh herbs to cater to your taste.

FAQs

Q: Can I make pizza dough in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.

Q: What type of cheese is best for pizza?
A: While mozzarella is the classic choice, you can also use provolone, fontina, or a blend for a more complex flavor.

Q: How can I make my crust chewy?
A: To achieve a chewier crust, you can use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour and let the dough rise longer.