This classic pepperoni pizza is a hit for everyone! With a crispy crust, gooey melted cheese, and slices of tasty pepperoni, it’s simply irresistible.
There’s nothing like the smell of pizza baking in the oven. I love making it on movie nights—grab a slice, your favorite film, and enjoy! 🍕
Making this pizza is fun and easy. Just toss on your toppings, bake it up, and have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought dough for convenience, but homemade dough is often tastier! For a quicker option, try using pre-made flatbreads or pita bread as a base.
Tomato Sauce: A classic pizza sauce works best, but if you don’t have it, you can use any marinara or even jarred spaghetti sauce. Just make sure it’s not too watery.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella gives a perfect melt. If you’re looking for dairy-free options, try vegan cheese or a mix of cashews blended to a creamy texture!
Pepperoni: Traditional pepperoni is great, but you can substitute with turkey pepperoni for a lighter option, or try sliced salami for a different flavor.
How Do I Get the Perfect Pizza Crust?
Getting that ideal crust can make or break your pizza! Here’s a step-by-step to help achieve a crispy base:
- Always preheat your oven, and a pizza stone if you have one. This ensures a crispy bottom.
- Roll your dough evenly—thinner for a crisper crust and thicker for a doughier one.
- Brush the edges with olive oil. This helps in browning and gives a nice sheen.
- Don’t overload on sauce or toppings; less is more to avoid a soggy crust.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a delicious pizza to enjoy every time! Happy cooking!
How to Make Delicious Pepperoni Pizza?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Pizza Dough: 1 ball (about 250g) (store-bought or homemade)
- Tomato Sauce: 1/2 cup (120 ml) pizza sauce
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1 1/2 cups (170g) shredded
- Pepperoni: 20-25 slices
- Olive Oil: 1 tbsp (for crust)
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for topping
- Optional: dried oregano or crushed red pepper flakes for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This pepperoni pizza takes about 20-25 minutes in total to make. You’ll spend about 10-12 minutes preparing the pizza and around 10-12 minutes baking it. Easy and perfect for a quick dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, put it in the oven to heat up as well. This helps achieve that crispy crust we all love!
2. Shape the Dough:
On a clean, floured surface, roll out your pizza dough to form a circle about 10-12 inches wide. Make it as thick or thin as you prefer!
3. Prepare the Pizza Base:
Transfer your shaped dough onto a pizza peel (if you have one) or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to make it easy to transfer to the oven.
4. Brush with Olive Oil:
Gently brush the outer edge of the dough with olive oil. This will help the edges of your pizza turn a beautiful golden brown.
5. Add the Tomato Sauce:
Spread the pizza sauce evenly across the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges for the crust.
6. Sprinkle the Cheese:
Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, covering it nicely for that delicious cheesy goodness!
7. Place the Pepperoni:
Now, arrange the pepperoni slices all over the cheese. Make sure to spread them out so you get a tasty piece in every bite!
8. Bake the Pizza:
Carefully slide your pizza onto the heated pizza stone or place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
9. Final Touches:
Once your pizza is done, remove it from the oven. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. You can also add a pinch of dried oregano or crushed red pepper flakes for a kick!
10. Slice and Serve:
Let your pizza cool for a couple of minutes, then slice it up and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious homemade pepperoni pizza! 🍕
Can I Use Store-Bought Pizza Dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough is a convenient option that saves time. Just follow the package instructions for best results. Make sure to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out for easier handling.
What Can I Substitute for Pepperoni?
If you’re looking for alternatives, try turkey pepperoni for a leaner option, or use sliced salami, chorizo, or even veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
How to Store Leftover Pizza?
Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or use a microwave, though the oven will retain the crispiness better!
Can I Freeze This Pizza?
Yes, you can freeze the pizza before baking! Assemble the pizza, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the freezer and cook it straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.