Pepperoni pizza is a favorite around the world, known for its savory, spicy slices of pepperoni atop gooey, melted cheese and tangy tomato sauce. Whether you're hosting a pizza night or just craving a slice, this recipe will guide you to making the perfect pepperoni pizza at home.

Ingredients

For the dough:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the toppings:

• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup sliced pepperoni
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

Preparing the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until the mixture begins to come together.

3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

4. Let it Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Assembling the Pizza

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.

2. Shape the Dough: Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll or stretch the dough into a 12-inch circle. If you're using a pizza stone, place the dough on a piece of parchment paper for easy transfer.

3. Add the Sauce: Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

4. Add the Cheese and Pepperoni: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. Arrange the pepperoni slices on top of the cheese.

5. Season and Bake: Sprinkle the dried oregano and basil over the pizza. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. Transfer the pizza to the preheated oven (or onto the pizza stone). Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.

6. Finish with Parmesan: Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top.

Serving

Slice the pizza into wedges and serve hot. The combination of the crispy crust, spicy pepperoni, and melty cheese is sure to be a hit with everyone.

Tips for the Perfect Pepperoni Pizza

• Quality Pepperoni: Choose high-quality pepperoni for the best flavor. Thinly sliced pepperoni works best.
• Hot Oven: A very hot oven helps achieve that perfect crispy crust.
• Extra Cheese: For a cheesier pizza, add an extra half-cup of shredded mozzarella.

Enjoy your homemade Pepperoni Pizza with friends and family, and make every bite count. Happy baking!

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