Making pizza from scratch is a fun and rewarding kitchen project. By preparing your own dough and sauces, you can customize flavors, control ingredients, and create pizzeria-quality pizza at home. This guide provides simple recipes for classic pizza dough, tomato-based pizza sauce, and creamy white pizza sauce.
Homemade Pizza Dough
A well-made dough is the foundation of any great pizza. This recipe yields a soft, chewy crust with a golden finish.
Ingredients:
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 1/4 tsp dry yeast
- 2 1/4 cups flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Tips for Perfect Pizza Dough:
- Use warm water to activate yeast properly.
- Knead dough until smooth and elastic for the best texture.
- Let the dough rise in a warm area until it doubles in size.
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) for a crisp crust.
Homemade Pizza Sauce
Classic tomato-based pizza sauce adds a bright, tangy flavor to your pizza. It’s quick to make and can be stored in the refrigerator for several days.
Ingredients:
- 1 can whole tomatoes
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and sugar to taste
Tips for Pizza Sauce:
- Blend or crush tomatoes for a smooth texture.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more oregano or basil for stronger flavor.
- Simmer sauce briefly to concentrate flavors before spreading on dough.
Homemade White Pizza Sauce
White pizza sauce is creamy and rich, perfect for pizzas with chicken, mushrooms, or a four-cheese blend.
Ingredients:
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 cup cream
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Tips for White Pizza Sauce:
- Melt butter and sauté garlic lightly to release aroma.
- Whisk flour into butter to create a roux before adding cream and milk.
- Simmer gently to thicken, then stir in Parmesan for a smooth finish.
Additional Tips for Homemade Pizza
- Roll dough thin for a crispier crust or leave thicker for a chewy, bready pizza.
- Pre-bake the crust for 3–5 minutes before adding toppings for extra crispiness.
- Experiment with herbs, spices, and different cheeses to customize flavor.
- Use a pizza stone if available for even heat distribution and better crust texture.
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat flour for pizza dough?
Yes, but the dough may be denser. Mix with all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.
How long does homemade pizza dough last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Let thaw and rise before using.
Can I make pizza sauce ahead of time?
Yes, tomato sauce can be prepared and refrigerated for up to a week. White sauce is best used fresh but can be stored for 2–3 days.
How do I make a crispier pizza crust?
Use a preheated pizza stone, roll the dough thin, and bake at a high temperature.
Can I make a gluten-free pizza?
Yes, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend and adjust liquid ratios as needed.