Deluxe Recipe

preheat

Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it on the middle rack before heating; otherwise use a rimmed baking sheet turned upside down and preheat it.

Lightly dust a work surface with the all-purpose flour. Stretch or roll the pizza dough into a 12–14 inch round, about 1/4 inch thick. Transfer the stretched dough to a piece of parchment paper for easy transfer to the oven.

Brush the outer 1/2 inch of the dough lightly with 1 tablespoon olive oil to promote a golden crust.

If desired, combine 3 tablespoons signature pizza sauce with 1 teaspoon minced garlic and 1 teaspoon dried oregano. Taste and adjust seasoning. If the sauce is already seasoned, you can use it straight.

Spread the sauce over the dough, starting from the center and working outward in a thin, even layer, leaving the oiled 1/2 inch rim exposed.

Evenly sprinkle 2 cups shredded pizza mozzarella over the sauce, covering to the edge of the sauced area. Reserve the grated parmesan for after baking if using.

Distribute the pepperoni slices evenly across the cheese layer. Scatter the smoked ham pieces evenly so each slice of finished pizza will have ham.

Scatter the thinly sliced green pepper and sliced mushrooms evenly over the meats and cheese. Season the vegetables lightly with 1/4 teaspoon salt and a pinch (1/8 teaspoon) black pepper. If you like heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to taste.

Gently press the toppings into the cheese so they adhere and won’t slide off when transferring to the oven.

Using a pizza peel or the back of a baking sheet, transfer the parchment with the assembled pizza onto the preheated stone or inverted baking sheet. Bake for 10–14 minutes, until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and beginning to brown.

Remove the pizza from the oven. Sprinkle 2 teaspoons grated parmesan over the hot pizza if desired. Let the pizza rest for 2–3 minutes to set, then slice and serve.