Cheese Pizza Recipe

Preheat and prepare

Place an oven rack in the top third of the oven and preheat to 500°F (260°C) for at least 30 minutes. If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while preheating. Lightly dust a pizza peel or work surface with the 1/4 cup flour.

If refrigerated, bring the pizza dough to room temperature for 20–30 minutes so it becomes elastic and easier to stretch. Lightly oil the pizza pan or peel with 1 tablespoon olive oil to prevent sticking and to help crisp the bottom.

On the dusted surface, gently press and stretch the dough into a 12-inch round (about 1/4-inch thick in the center with a slightly thicker rim). Avoid using a rolling pin if you want to retain air in the crust. Transfer the shaped dough to the oiled pan or onto a floured pizza peel.

In a small bowl, combine 1 cup marinara sauce with 1 teaspoon minced garlic, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano and optional 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Warm the sauce briefly in the microwave or on the stove (30–60 seconds) to take the chill off and make it spread more evenly.

Using the back of a spoon, spread a thin, even layer of the seasoned marinara over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border for the crust. Avoid over-saucing to prevent a soggy center.

Sprinkle 2 cups shredded mozzarella evenly over the sauced dough, leaving the rim exposed. Follow with 1/4 cup grated Parmesan distributed evenly for flavor and browning.

Season the cheese lightly with 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt and 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. If using, scatter torn fresh basil leaves over the cheese (some can be reserved to add after baking for bright flavor).

Slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or place the pan in the oven. Bake at 500°F (260°C) for 8–12 minutes, rotating halfway through if necessary, until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted with light brown spots.

Remove the pizza from the oven and let rest for 2–3 minutes on the peel or pan to set. If any basil was reserved, add it now. Optionally drizzle a few drops of olive oil over the pizza for shine and flavor.

Slice into 8 pieces and serve hot.