Pizza Was a Win with the Hubby 🍕❤️

Description

This homemade pizza recipe is an absolute winner, especially when made for loved ones! With a crispy yet chewy crust, flavorful sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this pizza will impress even the pickiest eaters. Perfect for a cozy date night, family dinner, or a fun weekend meal.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chewiness)
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 tsp sugar
• ¾ cup warm water (110°F)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp sugar

For the Toppings:

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup pepperoni (or other favorite toppings like mushrooms, olives, bell peppers)
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add crushed tomatoes, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and sugar.
3. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza

1. Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C).
2. Roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle and place it on a pizza stone or baking sheet.
3. Spread the sauce evenly over the dough.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
5. Add pepperoni or desired toppings.

Step 4: Bake & Serve

1. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
2. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before slicing.
3. Enjoy with a side of marinara or ranch for dipping!

Notes & Tips

✅ Crispier Crust? Bake the crust for 5 minutes before adding toppings.
✅ Chewier Dough? Use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour.
✅ Make It Healthier: Swap white flour for whole wheat, use low-fat cheese, and add veggies.
✅ Spice It Up: Add chili flakes or drizzle hot honey after baking.
✅ No Pizza Stone? Use an upside-down baking sheet or cast-iron skillet.

Servings & Nutritional Info

Servings: 4-6 slices (1 medium pizza)
Per Slice (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: ~280
• Protein: 12g
• Carbs: 35g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 2g

(Values may vary based on toppings and ingredients used.)

Health Benefits of Homemade Pizza

✔ Better Ingredients – Control over quality, no preservatives.
✔ Less Grease – Healthier than store-bought or fast food pizza.
✔ Protein & Calcium – Cheese provides essential nutrients.
✔ Customizable – Load up on veggies for extra vitamins and fiber.

Q&A Section

🔹 Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for later use.

🔹 What’s the best cheese for pizza?
Mozzarella is classic, but a mix of mozzarella and provolone gives a richer flavor.

🔹 How do I make the crust extra crispy?
Bake on a preheated pizza stone or bake at a higher temp (500°F) for a few minutes less.

🔹 Can I use store-bought dough?
Absolutely! Just roll it out and follow the rest of the recipe.

🔹 What are some fun topping ideas?
Try BBQ chicken, buffalo ranch, pesto, caramelized onions, or even pineapple!

Now go ahead and make your “Pizza Was a Win with the Hubby” and enjoy the love-filled, homemade goodness! 🍕❤️

Would you like any variations, like a gluten-free or vegan option? 😊