Cheese Pizza Recipe

Activate yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm water (about 105–115°F / 40–46°C) with sugar and sprinkle the active dry yeast over the surface. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Mix dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the foamy yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.

Knead

Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. If dough is sticky, add flour 1 tablespoon at a time.

First rise

Lightly oil a clean bowl, place the dough inside, cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1 hour 15 minutes.

Shape dough

Punch down the risen dough to remove air. On a lightly floured surface, shape into a 12-inch round by pressing from the center outward with your fingers, or roll with a rolling pin to desired thickness. Transfer to a lightly oiled or cornmeal-dusted pizza pan or baking sheet.

Prepare sauce

In a small saucepan, warm 1 teaspoon olive oil over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Add crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, pepper, and optional 1/2 teaspoon sugar. Simmer gently for 10 minutes to meld flavors, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Preheat oven

Place a rack in the lower-middle position of the oven and preheat to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven before preheating.

Assemble pizza

Brush the shaped dough edge lightly with 1 teaspoon olive oil. Spread an even layer of the prepared tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch edge for the crust. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the sauce, then dust with grated Parmesan. Add red pepper flakes if using.

Bake

Slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or place the pan in the oven. Bake for 10–12 minutes, rotating once halfway through, until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbling and lightly browned.

Finish and serve

Remove pizza from oven and let rest 2–3 minutes. Scatter fresh basil leaves over the top if using. Slice and serve hot.