There’s nothing quite like a classic pepperoni pizza—crispy edges, gooey mozzarella, tangy tomato sauce, and spicy, slightly curled pepperoni slices that sizzle to perfection in the oven. Whether you’re craving a nostalgic Friday night dinner or hosting a crowd-pleasing game day party, this homemade pepperoni pizza delivers everything you love about your favorite pizzeria, right from your kitchen.
This recipe strikes the perfect balance between savory toppings and a chewy yet crispy crust, with every detail optimized for bold flavor and great texture. If you’re searching for the best pepperoni pizza recipe that rivals (or beats) takeout, you’ve found it.
Table of Contents
Ingredients and Their Roles
For the Pizza Dough (Makes 1 Large Pizza)
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and chew; high gluten content creates the classic pizza texture.
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast: Leavens the dough, giving it rise and lightness.
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (110°F): Activates the yeast; helps bring the dough together.
- 1 tsp sugar: Feeds the yeast, accelerating fermentation.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances flavor and strengthens the dough.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and elasticity to the crust.
For the Pizza Sauce
- 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes: The base of the sauce; delivers a rich, tangy tomato flavor.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds depth and richness.
- 1 garlic clove, minced: Brings sharp, aromatic notes.
- ½ tsp dried oregano: Provides a hint of earthiness and classic Italian flavor.
- ½ tsp salt: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
For the Toppings
- 2 cups shredded whole-milk mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and creates the signature gooey texture.
- 20–25 slices of high-quality pepperoni: The star of the show; spicy, meaty, and packed with umami.
- 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a salty, nutty finish.
- Fresh basil (optional): Offers a fresh, aromatic contrast to the rich toppings.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
- Stir in olive oil, flour, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Transfer to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Make the Pizza Sauce
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, sauté the garlic in olive oil for 30 seconds.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, and salt.
- Simmer for 10–15 minutes until slightly thickened. Let cool.
Step 3: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 500°F (or as high as your oven will safely go) with a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to get piping hot.
- Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a 12- to 14-inch circle.
- Carefully transfer to a sheet of parchment paper for easy sliding onto the stone or sheet.
Step 4: Assemble the Pizza
- Spread a thin, even layer of pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously over the sauce.
- Top with pepperoni slices, spacing them slightly apart to allow for crisp edges.
- Optionally sprinkle with Parmesan for an added flavor boost.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Slide the parchment-topped pizza onto your preheated surface.
- Bake for 9–12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling with slightly charred spots.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes before slicing.
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Why This Recipe Is Loved
- Crispy yet chewy crust that holds up to generous toppings.
- Perfect balance of flavors: tangy sauce, creamy cheese, and spicy, savory pepperoni.
- Customizable base: Use the same dough and sauce to make other pizza varieties.
- Better than delivery: Fresh, preservative-free, and piping hot from your oven.
Pro Tips for Pizza Perfection
- Use bread flour instead of all-purpose for a chewier crust.
- Let the dough ferment overnight in the fridge for more flavor and better texture.
- Try layering some cheese below and above the pepperoni for an extra gooey bite and crisped edges on top.
- Blot pepperoni slices before adding if they’re extra greasy; this helps avoid sogginess.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your homemade pepperoni pizza with a crisp Caesar salad or garlic knots for a restaurant-style meal. For drinks, try an ice-cold lager or sparkling water with lemon to cut through the richness.
Final Thoughts
This best pepperoni pizza recipe is everything a pizza lover craves—crispy, cheesy, savory, and deeply satisfying. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough for entertaining. With its perfectly seasoned sauce, premium toppings, and foolproof dough, this recipe is designed to deliver standout results every time.
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