Lunch & Dinner

Homemade Pepperoni Pizza Recipe – Easy Meals To Cook

Name: Homemade Pepperoni Pizza Recipe – Easy Meals To Cook
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 teaspoons fine granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon dry milk powder; 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast; 3 3/4– 4 cups bread flour; 1 1/2 cups warm water; 1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt; 4 cups low-moisture shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano; 2 cups classic pepperoni slices; 1 cup rich pizza sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian herb blend; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Kelly Blackford July 18, 2025

Servings: 8 Total Time: 20 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Before we dive into the delicious intricacies of homemade pepperoni pizza, let’s consider what to serve alongside it. A well-paired dish can elevate your pizza experience and keep the party alive.

Garlic Knots
These fluffy, buttery bites are a great way to kick off any pizza night. A hint of garlic and parsley, paired with a marinara dipping sauce, makes for an irresistible complement. The aroma alone is enough to whet your appetite.

Fresh Garden Salad

A crisp salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a vinegar-based dressing balances the richness of the pizza. It adds a refreshing crunch and lightness, ensuring your meal is well-rounded.

Bruschetta
Toast slices of baguette and top with a mix of diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil. This appetizer provides a vibrant flavor burst that pairs harmoniously with the savory notes of pepperoni.

Marinated Olives
A small bowl of assorted olives marinated in herbs and olive oil makes for a delightful nibbler. Their briny flavor contrasts beautifully with the cheese and meat on your pizza.

What is Homemade Pepperoni Pizza?

Homemade pepperoni pizza is a labor of love. It combines a homemade dough, rich tomato sauce, gooey cheese, and, of course, slices of spicy pepperoni. Just imagine pulling a slice away from the pie, cheese stretching with it, creating that classic pizza moment. The layers of flavor come together to produce a dish that’s not simply food but an experience to share.

Why Does This Recipe Work?

When it comes to pizza, some recipes just hit the mark. Here are a few reasons why this one shines:

Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients makes a huge difference. A homemade sauce, quality cheese, and fresh herbs amplify the flavors. The result is a pizza that bursts with original taste.

Customizable Dough
The dough is where the magic starts. This recipe allows you to customize the thickness to your liking. Whether you enjoy a thick crust or a thin, crispy edge, this dough can adapt to your preferences.

Quick and Efficient
Although we’re making pizza from scratch, it doesn’t take an eternity. With some preparation and a little patience, you can whip this up in no time. I promise, the smell alone will make the effort worth it.

Family-Friendly Fun
Making pizza is like conducting a culinary orchestra. Every member of the family can join in, sprinkling toppings or rolling dough. This transforms dinner into a fun activity that everyone will remember.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Homemade Pepperoni Pizza

Let’s gather those ingredients and prepare for a cooking adventure! Here’s what you’ll need:

Dough Ingredients:

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 teaspoons fine granulated sugar
1 tablespoon dry milk powder (enhances browning and gives a softer crumb)
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
3 ¾ – 4 cups bread flour (all-purpose flour can be used as a substitute)
1 1/2 cups warm water (around 110°F / 43°C, ideal for yeast activation)
1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt

Toppings:

4 cups low-moisture shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
2 cups classic pepperoni slices
1 cup rich pizza sauce (homemade or high-quality store-bought)
1 teaspoon Italian herb blend (oregano, basil, thyme)
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adds gentle heat and depth—optional)

How To Make This?

Ready to create some pizza magic? Let’s get started!

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it foams. This step ensures that your yeast is alive and kicking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, dry milk powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately ensures an even distribution throughout the dough.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Once the yeast mixture is bubbly, stir it into the dry ingredients. Add in the olive oil. Mix with a wooden spoon until the dough starts to come together.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. If it’s sticky, add a sprinkle of flour. This is where the workout happens, but trust me, it’s worth it.

Step 5: Let it Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and set it in a warm spot. Let it rise for about 1-2 hours, until it doubles in size. The dough gets a little puffy, and you get a chance to sip on that glass of wine!

Step 6: Preheat the Oven

About 30 minutes before you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.

Step 7: Shape the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide it into pieces if you’re making multiple pizzas. Use your hands or a rolling pin to stretch or roll it into your desired shape.

Step 8: Add Sauce and Toppings

Transfer the rolled dough onto a baking sheet or pizza stone. Spread the pizza sauce generously over the base, leaving a little space around the edges for that delicious crust. Sprinkle the mozzarella, Parmigiano-Reggiano, and then top with pepperoni slices. For a kick, sprinkle the herb blend and red pepper flakes.

Step 9: Bake the Pizza

Slide the pizza into the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’re looking for golden brown crust and bubbling cheese. Who can resist that sizzling sound?

Step 10: Slice and Serve

Once cooked, take the pizza out and let it cool for a couple of minutes. This helps with slicing. Use a pizza cutter to cut into slices and serve it up hot!

Tips for the Perfect Pizza

Use High-Heat for Baking: Higher temperatures create a crispy base. If using a pizza stone, let it heat up for at least 30 minutes.
Let Dough Rest: If you’re short on time, even a 30-minute rest can improve the texture.
Quality Cheese Matters: Aim for low-moisture mozzarella. It melts beautifully and has more flavor than the water-packed stuff.
Experiment with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to switch things up! Veggies, different meats, or gourmet sauces can personalize your pizza.
Bake on Parchment Paper: If you’re not using a pizza stone, place your pizza on parchment paper to make transferring it easier.

How to Store the Leftovers?

Storing your wonderful pizza is easy! Here’s how:

Refrigerate: Allow your pizza to cool, then slice it up. Place the slices in an airtight container or wrap them in plastic wrap. Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freeze: If you have more leftovers than you can handle, freeze the slices. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can last up to three months. Just reheat in the oven for a crispy slice.

Recommended Side Dishes for Homemade Pepperoni Pizza

To complete your pizza experience, consider serving these sides:

Caesar Salad
A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons offers a delightful contrast to the hot pizza.

Antipasto Platter
Cured meats, cheeses, marinated vegetables, and olives make for an enticing appetizer that complements the flavors of the pepperoni pizza.

Roasted Vegetables
Toss seasonal veggies in olive oil and roast them until tender. Their sweetness balances the spiciness of the pizza.

Fruit Salad
A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate. Consider mixing melons, berries, and citrus for a refreshing twist.

Substitute Options for Ingredients

What if you’re missing an ingredient? No problem! Here are some substitutes:

Bread Flour:
If you don’t have bread flour, all-purpose flour works just fine. It may affect the chewiness slightly, but it will still taste delightful.

Olive Oil:
In case you’re out of olive oil, you could use melted butter or even avocado oil for a different flavor profile.

Mozzarella Cheese:
Try using provolone or gouda if mozzarella isn’t available. They melt well and offer a unique taste.

Meat Alternatives:
For a healthier option, consider turkey pepperoni or even plant-based pepperoni, which can provide the spice without the meat.

Conclusion

Making homemade pepperoni pizza is not just a task; it’s an experience. From crafting the dough to layering toppings and pulling it from the oven, each step is a celebration of flavor and enjoyment. Gather your friends or family, turn up some music, and let the pizza-making begin. You may just end up creating a new tradition. So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the kitchen, and let’s create something delicious!

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Homemade Pepperoni Pizza Recipe – Easy Meals To Cook

Author: Kelly Blackford Cuisine: American Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 10 mins Total Time 20 mins

Servings: 8 Calories: 509 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Picture this: it's a Friday night, the house is filled with the tantalizing scent of freshly baked bread, and laughter echoes off the walls. Friends gather at the kitchen table, eyes lighting up as the ultimate comfort food takes center stage—homemade pepperoni pizza. Nothing quite matches the joy of pulling a warm, cheesy slice from a perfectly baked round of dough, topped with delicious pepperoni.

This isn’t your average pizza. It's crafted with love, care, and a fair dash of culinary know-how. I’m not just here to list ingredients; I want to walk you through the experience, the process, and the magic that makes every bite memorable.