Classic American Pizza Recipe: Crispy, Cheesy, and Irresistibly Delicious

There’s something timeless and satisfying about a classic American pizza—a golden-brown crust, tangy tomato sauce, gooey cheese, and endless topping possibilities. Unlike its Italian cousin with a thin and minimalistic approach, American-style pizza is bold, hearty, and made to impress. Whether you’re a fan of pepperoni, sausage, or just a lover of cheese, this pizza delivers maximum flavor with every bite.

In this recipe, you’ll learn how to make a restaurant-quality American pizza at home, from scratch, with step-by-step guidance. The crust is thick yet airy, the sauce is rich and savory, and the cheese melts into bubbling perfection. This is the kind of pizza that brings everyone to the table.

Table of Contents

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Ingredients and Their Roles

For the Dough:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Forms the base structure of the dough, giving it chewiness and body.
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast – Helps the dough rise, creating a light, airy texture.
• 1 tsp sugar – Feeds the yeast and promotes browning during baking.
• 1 tsp salt – Enhances flavor and balances the dough.
• 1 ¼ cups warm water (110°F) – Activates the yeast and binds the dough.
• 2 tbsp olive oil – Adds richness and helps achieve a crisp, golden crust.

For the Sauce:

• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes – The foundation of a classic American pizza sauce, thick and flavorful.
• 1 tbsp tomato paste – Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds a bold, aromatic punch.
• 1 tsp sugar – Balances acidity.
• 1 tsp dried oregano – Delivers classic Italian-American herbaceousness.
• ½ tsp dried basil – Adds sweetness and depth.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Seasoning to bring it all together.

For the Toppings:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully and gives that classic stretch.
• ½ cup grated cheddar cheese – Adds sharpness and golden color.
• 20 slices of pepperoni (optional) – The all-American favorite topping.
• Other options: sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, black olives, sausage – Customize your pizza just how you like it.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and flour. Mix with a wooden spoon or dough hook until a rough dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm area for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, sauté garlic in a little olive oil until fragrant.
2. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza

1. Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C). Place a pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven to heat up.
2. Roll out the dough to 12–14 inches on a floured surface. Transfer to a piece of parchment paper.
3. Spread a generous layer of sauce over the dough.
4. Top with mozzarella, cheddar, and your choice of toppings.
5. Slide the pizza (on parchment) onto the hot stone or baking sheet.
6. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and browned.

Step 4: Rest and Slice

Let the pizza rest for 3–5 minutes before slicing. This keeps the cheese from sliding off and gives the crust a perfect texture.

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Why This Recipe Works

This homemade American pizza recipe combines the perfect crust, sauce, and topping balance. The dough is chewy on the inside with a crispy bottom. The sauce is bold but not overpowering. The cheese blend creates that iconic stretch and color. And by using a hot oven and pizza stone, you get that professional pizzeria result right in your kitchen.

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Pro Tips for Perfect American Pizza

• Use bread flour if you want a chewier crust with more bite.
• Let the dough rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight for deeper flavor.
• Don’t overload with toppings—balance is key to even baking.
• Preheat your oven and pizza stone for at least 30 minutes for optimal crust texture.
• Brush the crust with garlic butter before baking for a golden, flavorful edge.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve this pizza hot from the oven with:

• A side of garlic knots or cheesy breadsticks
• A crisp Caesar salad or garden salad with Italian dressing
• A cold glass of cola, beer, or sparkling water with lemon

Great for family dinners, game nights, or weekend indulgence, this pizza hits every note of comfort and flavor.

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Final Thoughts: Homemade American Pizza Done Right

This classic American pizza recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s simple enough for a weeknight and satisfying enough for a special occasion. With its crispy crust, zesty sauce, and rich cheese blend, this pizza delivers that iconic pizzeria experience from your own oven.

Related Article: Extra Pepperoni Pizza Recipe: The Ultimate Guide to a Crispy, Cheesy, Meaty Classic

American Pizza Recipe: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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