Cheese Pizza Recipe | Easy Homemade Pizza with Gooey Mozzarella

Introduction

Few foods spark comfort and satisfaction the way a perfectly baked cheese pizza does. The bubbling golden crust, the aroma of freshly melted mozzarella, and the balance between tangy tomato sauce and savory cheese create a harmony that never gets old. Pizza has become a global favorite, but the simplicity of cheese pizza still holds a special place in the hearts of food lovers everywhere.

Whether you are preparing dinner for family, a casual get-together with friends, or simply craving something delicious after a long day, cheese pizza always delivers. It is one of those dishes that feels indulgent yet approachable, offering endless room for creativity while remaining true to its roots. You can make it as rustic or refined as you wish, and the result will always be satisfying.

Homemade cheese pizza captures something magical that frozen or store-bought versions cannot match. The smell of the dough baking in your oven, the sight of the cheese bubbling, and the crisp yet soft texture of the crust make the entire process deeply rewarding. Plus, when you make it yourself, you control every ingredient, ensuring freshness, flavor, and quality in every bite.

In this guide, you will learn how to create the perfect cheese pizza from scratch. From choosing the best ingredients to understanding baking techniques, this article provides practical steps that anyone can follow. You will also find useful tips for customizing your pizza, nutritional insights, and serving ideas that will help you make your next homemade pizza night unforgettable.

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Ingredients Needed

A great cheese pizza begins with simple, high-quality ingredients. The better your ingredients, the better your results. Below is a list of what you will need to make a classic pizza that serves two to three people.

Ingredient	Quantity	Approximate Calories
All-purpose flour	2 cups	910
Instant yeast	1 packet (7 g)	20
Warm water	¾ cup	0
Olive oil	2 tablespoons	240
Sugar	1 teaspoon	16
Salt	1 teaspoon	0
Tomato sauce (homemade or canned)	1 cup	80
Mozzarella cheese (shredded)	2 cups	560
Parmesan cheese (grated)	¼ cup	110
Dried oregano	½ teaspoon	2
Fresh basil leaves (optional)	4–5 leaves	1

Total estimated calories per pizza: approximately 1939 calories (before slicing or serving size adjustments).

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

Begin by combining warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Stir gently and let it sit for about five minutes until the mixture starts to foam. This means your yeast is active and ready to use. In a larger bowl, mix flour and salt, then pour in the yeast mixture along with olive oil.

Knead the dough by hand or with a stand mixer for about eight to ten minutes until it becomes soft and elastic. If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed. Once kneaded, form a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a damp towel and let it rest in a warm place for about one hour, or until it doubles in size.

2. Prepare the Sauce

While the dough rises, make your tomato sauce. You can use a simple version by cooking crushed tomatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Add oregano or basil for extra flavor. Simmer for ten minutes on low heat until the sauce thickens slightly. Let it cool before spreading it on your dough.Discover even more flavors in Chicago Style Pizza Recipe.

3. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a pizza stone or baking tray inside to heat up. This step ensures a crisp crust once you bake your pizza.

4. Shape the Dough

Once the dough has doubled, punch it down to release air. Place it on a floured surface and roll it into a round shape about twelve inches in diameter. Transfer the shaped dough to a sheet of parchment paper to make it easier to move.

5. Assemble the Pizza

Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly, followed by Parmesan cheese. You can also drizzle a bit of olive oil on top for extra flavor.

6. Bake the Pizza

Slide the parchment paper with the pizza onto your preheated stone or baking tray. Bake for ten to twelve minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly golden. The crust should look crisp but not burnt. If you like a darker top, you can broil the pizza for an extra minute.

7. Cool and Slice

Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the cheese to settle, making it easier to cut clean slices.

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Tips for Customizing the Recipe

1. Try different cheeses: Mix mozzarella with provolone, fontina, or cheddar for a deeper flavor.
2. Experiment with sauces: Add roasted garlic or crushed red pepper to your tomato base for extra zest.
3. Play with herbs: Sprinkle fresh thyme, rosemary, or chili flakes for a unique twist.
4. Make it whole-grain: Substitute half of the flour with whole-wheat flour for a more wholesome crust.
5. Adjust the crust: Roll it thinner for a crisp texture or keep it thicker for a soft and chewy bite.
6. Add vegetables: Though a cheese pizza is perfect on its own, adding roasted peppers or mushrooms enhances nutrition without overpowering the cheese flavor.

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Nutritional Information

A single slice of homemade cheese pizza (based on an eight-slice pizza) provides an estimated:

These numbers can vary depending on the cheese type and crust thickness. Homemade pizza tends to be healthier than most takeout versions since you can control the portion of cheese and oil used.

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Serving Suggestions

Cheese pizza pairs wonderfully with a wide variety of sides and drinks. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the cheese. Garlic breadsticks or roasted vegetables make great additions to the meal as well.

For beverages, consider sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing contrast or a glass of red wine for an evening meal. Kids might enjoy pairing it with cold milk or fresh fruit juice.

If you are hosting a casual gathering, slice your pizza into smaller squares for easy serving. You can also make mini versions for parties or family nights. Cheese pizza is flexible enough to fit any occasion, from weeknight dinners to festive celebrations.

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FAQs

1. How can I make my crust crispier?
Preheat your oven thoroughly and use a pizza stone if possible. Baking on a hot surface helps evaporate moisture quickly, creating a crisp crust.

2. Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes. After kneading, cover the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Bring it to room temperature before shaping.

3. What type of cheese melts best on pizza?
Whole milk mozzarella melts evenly and provides the classic stretchy texture most people love. A blend of mozzarella and provolone also works beautifully.

4. Is it okay to freeze leftover pizza?
Absolutely. Let the slices cool, wrap them in foil or airtight bags, and freeze. Reheat in an oven for best texture.

5. Can I make the sauce from scratch without cooking?
Yes. Mix crushed tomatoes, olive oil, salt, and herbs for a no-cook sauce. It delivers a fresh and tangy flavor.

6. How do I avoid soggy pizza?
Use less sauce, ensure your oven is hot enough, and avoid overloading the cheese.

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Conclusion

Making a cheese pizza at home brings joy that goes beyond the meal itself. The process encourages creativity and connects you to the ingredients in a personal way. Every slice you bake carries your effort, patience, and love, which makes it far more rewarding than ordering in.