Directions

• Step 1

  Step 1: Prepare the Pizza Dough
• Step 2

  Activate Yeast:
• Step 3
• Step 4

  In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
• Step 5

  Mix the Dough:
• Step 6
• Step 7

  In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 ½ cups of flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
• Step 8

  Mix until the dough starts to come together. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.
• Step 9

  Knead the Dough:
• Step 10
• Step 11

  Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
• Step 12

  Let it Rise:
• Step 13
• Step 14

  Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm area for 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.
• Step 15

  Step 2: Prepare the Pizza Sauce
• Step 16

  Cook the Sauce:
• Step 17

  In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
• Step 18

  Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper.
• Step 19

  Simmer the sauce for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool.
• Step 20

  Step 3: Assemble the Pizza
• Step 21

  Preheat the Oven:
• Step 22
• Step 23

  Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat as well.
• Step 24

  Shape the Dough:
• Step 25
• Step 26

  Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. Divide the dough into two equal portions for two pizzas.
• Step 27

  On a floured surface, roll out one portion of the dough into a circle (about 12 inches in diameter) or shape it by hand, leaving a slightly thicker edge for the crust.
• Step 28

  Transfer to Baking Surface:
• Step 29
• Step 30

  If using a pizza stone, sprinkle some flour or cornmeal on a pizza peel or baking sheet and place the rolled-out dough on it. If using a baking sheet, lightly grease it before placing the dough on it.
• Step 31

  Add Sauce and Cheese:
• Step 32
• Step 33

  Spread a generous amount of pizza sauce over the dough, leaving the edges free for the crust.
• Step 34

  Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce, and add grated Parmesan if desired.
• Step 35

  Step 4: Bake the Pizza
• Step 36

  Bake:
• Step 37
• Step 38

  Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated oven (or onto the pizza stone).
• Step 39

  Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the crust is cooked through.
• Step 40

  Garnish:
• Step 41
• Step 42

  Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
• Step 43

  Step 5: Serve
• Step 44

  Slice the pizza into wedges and serve hot. Enjoy it with red pepper flakes on the side for those who like a bit of heat