Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsColumbus InnTraditional Pizza Recipe

Traditional Pizza Recipe

Inspired by Columbus Inn
Time1h 30m
Serves4

red sauce, mozzarella cheese

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Dough

Method

Dough Preparation

  1. 1

    Activate Yeast

    In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.

  2. 2

    Mix Ingredients

    In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center, pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.

  3. 3

    Knead Dough

    Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth.

  4. 4

    Let Dough Rise

    Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Red Sauce Preparation

  1. 5

    Sauté Garlic

    In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

  2. 6

    Cook Sauce

    Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar to the saucepan. Simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Assembling and Baking Pizza

  1. 7

    Preheat Oven

    Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).

  2. 8

    Shape Dough

    Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to your desired shape and thickness.

  3. 9

    Add Sauce and Cheese

    Spread the red sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.

  4. 10

    Bake Pizza

    Transfer the pizza to a baking sheet or pizza stone and bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.

  5. 11

    Garnish and Serve

    Remove the pizza from the oven, top with fresh basil leaves, slice, and serve hot.

More from Columbus Inn