Method

Dough Preparation

Activate Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.

Mix Dough Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.

Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Let Dough Rise

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

Pizza Assembly

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.

Shape the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it back to a floured surface. Roll it out into a 10-inch circle for a personal-sized pizza.

Add Sauce and Toppings

Transfer the dough to a pizza peel or baking sheet. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Add pepperoni, bell pepper, and onion on top. Sprinkle oregano and red pepper flakes to taste.

Bake Pizza

Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated oven (or onto the pizza stone) and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

Slice and Serve

Remove the pizza from the oven, allow it to cool for a couple of minutes, slice into wedges, and serve hot.

Shirley Pizza – Personal Size Recipe