There’s something incredibly satisfying about making your own pizza from scratch. The aroma of freshly baked dough, the bubbling cheese, and the joy of customizing your toppings all combine to create a homemade experience that’s hard to beat. In this guide by Calin, we’ll walk you through exactly how to make cheese pizza at home, including an easy cheese pizza recipe, expert tips, and answers to common questions. Doesn’t matter if you are a beginner; this article is your ultimate guide to homemade pizza with cheese.
Now that you know how to make cheese pizza at home, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get baking. Whether you’re preparing a quick family dinner or hosting a pizza night with friends, this easy cheese pizza recipe by Calin will make you look like a pro in the kitchen.
Ingredients Needed for Cheese Pizza
Homemade pizza is more than just food; it’s an experience. From the joy of kneading dough to the satisfaction of watching cheese melt to perfection, every step is a labor of love. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and enjoy a slice of cheesy heaven made right in your own kitchen. Before we get into the step-by-step instructions, let’s gather all the essential ingredients. This simple cheese pizza recipe uses basic materials, but delivers a result that’s anything but basic.
For the Pizza Dough:
- 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F or 45°C)
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
For the Pizza Sauce:
- 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Pinch of sugar (optional)
For the Cheese Topping:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (low moisture)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (Cali’n Parmesan would be the best choice)
- Fresh basil
- A pinch of red pepper flakes
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cheese Pizza at Home
Let’s get to the fun part, making the cheese pizza step by step. This is a beginner-friendly recipe that you can make in about 2 hours (including dough rising time).
Step 1: Make the Dough
- Activate the yeast:
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy. - Add dry ingredients:
Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough starts to form. - Knead the dough:
Knead on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. - Let it rise:
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Pizza Sauce
While the dough is rising, make your homemade pizza sauce.
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar. Simmer for 10–15 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning to taste. Let cool slightly before using.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two equal portions (for two medium pizzas).
- Roll out one dough ball on a floured surface into a circle about 12 inches wide.
- Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza peel (if using a stone).
Step 4: Assemble the Pizza
- Spread a generous layer of pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Add shredded mozzarella evenly across the pizza.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan (optional).
- Add a few fresh basil leaves if desired.
Step 5: Bake the Pizza
- Place the pizza in the oven on a baking tray or onto the hot pizza stone.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 2–3 minutes.
- Slice and serve hot!
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Cheese Pizza
Here are some helpful tips to take your homemade pizza with cheese to the next level.
1. Use Bread Flour for a Chewier Crust
If you prefer a chewier, more elastic dough, try using bread flour instead of all-purpose flour. It has a higher protein content, which aids in gluten development.
2. Don’t Overload with Sauce
Too much sauce can make your crust soggy. Spread a thin, even layer and let the cheese be the star of the show.
3. Mix Your Cheeses
While mozzarella is the classic choice, a blend of mozzarella and provolone, gouda, or fontina can add depth of flavor.
4. Preheat Your Oven Properly
A hot oven is essential for a crispy crust. If you’re using a pizza stone or steel, preheat it for at least 30 minutes.
5. Avoid Pre-shredded Cheese
Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. For best results, grate your cheese fresh.
6. Add Herbs After Baking
Fresh basil or oregano can lose flavor when baked. Add them after the pizza comes out of the oven for a fresh, aromatic touch.
Storing Leftover Pizza
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), here’s how to store them:
In the Refrigerator:
- Let pizza slices cool to room temperature.
- Store in an airtight container or wrap with foil.
- Consume within 3–4 days.
In the Freezer:
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
Reheating Tip:
To bring back the crispy crust, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, then cover with a lid to melt the cheese.
FAQs About Making Cheese Pizza at Home
What is the easiest way to make cheese pizza at home?
The easiest way is to use store-bought pizza dough and sauce, then top with freshly grated mozzarella and bake in a preheated oven at high heat (475°F). But if you have time, making your own dough and sauce is more rewarding and flavorful.
Which cheese is best for homemade pizza?
Low-moisture mozzarella is the classic and best choice for a stretchy, gooey texture. For added flavor, combine it with cheeses like cheddar, provolone, fontina, or Gouda. Fresh mozzarella is also great, but it may release more moisture.
How long should I bake a cheese pizza at home?
Bake your cheese pizza at 475°F (245°C) for about 10–12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown. If you're using a pizza stone, baking time might be slightly shorter.