Name: Homemade Pepperoni Pizza Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 16 oz pizza dough; ½ cup pizza sauce; 20 slices pepperoni; 12 oz Mozzarella cheese; ½ tsp ground black pepper; 1 tsp fresh oregano; flour; For Quick Pizza Sauce:; ½ cup tomato sauce; ½ tsp kosher salt; ½ tsp ground black pepper; ½ tsp garlic; ½ tsp onion; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes; 1 tsp olive oil; For Honey Butter Add-On:; ¼ cup softened butter; 2 tbsp honey

Creating a delicious homemade pepperoni pizza is a rewarding experience that brings the flavors of your favorite pizzeria right into your kitchen. With a crispy crust, tangy sauce, and savory toppings, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

Photos of Homemade Pepperoni Pizza Recipe

When heading to the supermarket, take note of the fresh oregano, which might not be in every pantry. Make sure to grab a quality pizza dough for the perfect crust, and the combination of mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, and other spices will make your pizza stand out.

Ingredients for Homemade Pepperoni Pizza Recipe

Pizza dough: The foundation of your pizza, providing the structure and texture.

Pizza sauce: A tangy base that complements the toppings; can be homemade or store-bought.

Pepperoni: The star topping, adding a savory and slightly spicy flavor.

Mozzarella cheese: Essential for that melty, gooey cheese pull that everyone loves.

Ground black pepper: Adds a touch of spice to balance the flavors.

Fresh oregano: A fragrant herb that enhances the overall taste.

Flour: Used to prevent the dough from sticking when rolling it out.

Tomato sauce: Used in the quick pizza sauce for a rich tomato base.

Kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of the sauce and dough.

Garlic: Adds depth and a hint of sweetness to the sauce.

Onion: Provides a mild, sweet flavor to the sauce.

Red pepper flakes: Introduces a subtle heat to the sauce.

Olive oil: Adds richness and helps blend the sauce ingredients.

Butter: Combines with honey for a sweet and buttery dipping sauce.

Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to the honey butter for dipping the crust.

One reader, Cullie Coons says:

This homemade pepperoni pizza recipe is fantastic! The crust is perfectly crispy, and the combination of the flavorful sauce and gooey mozzarella is divine. The honey butter add-on is a delightful touch for dipping the crust. A must-try for pizza lovers!

Cullie Coons

Essential Techniques for Making Homemade Pepperoni Pizza

How to preheat a pizza stone: Place the pizza stone in the oven and preheat it at 500 degrees F for at least 20 minutes to ensure it is hot enough for baking. How to roll out pizza dough: Lightly flour a surface and roll the dough into a 14-inch diameter circle. If the dough is hard to roll, let it rest for 5 minutes to come to room temperature. How to transfer dough to a pizza peel: Lightly dust the pizza peel with flour and carefully transfer the rolled-out dough onto it. How to chop pepperoni: Use a sharp knife to chop half of the pepperoni slices into smaller pieces for sprinkling over the sauce. How to use a pizza stone: Carefully slide the prepared pizza onto the preheated pizza stone and cook as directed, rotating halfway through for even cooking. How to use a cast iron skillet for pizza: Press the dough into the skillet, add toppings, preheat the skillet on a high heat burner for 2 minutes, then transfer to the oven to bake. How to make honey butter: Stir together softened butter and honey until well combined, then serve alongside the pizza for crust dipping. How to store leftover pizza: Place leftover pizza in the fridge for up to three days. How to reheat pizza in a skillet: Heat a sturdy skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil, place the pizza in the skillet, cover with a lid, and cook until the cheese has melted and the crust is crispy.

How To Make Homemade Pepperoni Pizza

Skip takeout and enjoy this homemade pepperoni pizza with a golden, slightly charred crust topped with flavorful sauce and heaps of cheese.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

16ozpizza dough,store bought or homemade
½cuppizza sauce,see below
20slicespepperoni
12ozmozzarella cheese,grated
½tspground black pepper
1tspfresh oregano,optional
flour,for rolling and shaping dough

For Quick Pizza Sauce:

½cuptomato sauce,no salt
½tspkosher salt
½tspground black pepper
½tspgarlic,granulated
½tsponion,granulated
¼tspred pepper flakes
1tspolive oil

For Honey Butter Add-On:

¼cupsoftened butter
2tbsphoney

Instructions

Preheat oven to 500 degrees F. If using a pizza stone, preheat it in the oven for at least 20 minutes so it is nice and hot as well.
If using my sauce recipe, stir together the ingredients. The sauce recipe makes just enough for one large pizza. Double it if making more than one pizza.
Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface. If it’s hard to roll, let it rest for 5 minutes so it can come to room temperature. For a large pizza, roll the dough into about a 14-inch diameter circle.
Transfer the dough to a lightly dusted pizza peel. Alternatively, fit it into a large cast-iron.
Add sauce in a light layer all over the pizza, leaving about ¼-inch crust around the edges. Chop half of the pepperoni and sprinkle it over the sauce.
Top the pizza with grated cheese and the rest of the pepperoni. Season with black pepper.
If using a pizza stone, carefully slide the pizza into the center of the preheated pizza stone. Cook for 6 minutes, then rotate the pizza halfway so it cooks evenly. Cook for another 6 to 8 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and charred in spots.
If using a skillet, press the dough into a cast iron skillet and add toppings. Place the skillet over a high heat burner for 2 minutes to get it preheated and get the crust cooking right away.
Then transfer to a 500 degrees F oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Slice and serve. Use the pizza peel to slide pizza out onto a cutting board. Let the pizza rest for a minute and slice into pieces.
Season with fresh oregano (optional). Serve while warm with a side salad.

Honey Butter (Optional):

Stir together the softened butter and honey, then serve alongside the pizza for crust dipping.
Store leftover pizza in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat pizza in a sturdy skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil.
Cover skillet with a lid and cook until the cheese has melted and the crust is crispy.

Nutrition

Calories: 403.92kcal
Fat: 21.21g
Saturated Fat: 11.65g
Trans Fat: 0.31g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.29g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.61g
Carbohydrates: 37.30g
Fiber: 2.26g
Sugar: 6.39g
Protein: 16.12g
Cholesterol: 58.35mg
Sodium: 866.11mg
Calcium: 306.36mg
Potassium: 222.17mg
Iron: 2.24mg
Vitamin A: 136.17µg
Vitamin C: 2.99mg

Pro Tip for Achieving the Perfect Pepperoni Pizza Crust

When rolling out the pizza dough, use a light dusting of flour on your surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking. If the dough resists stretching, let it rest for a few minutes to relax the gluten, making it easier to shape.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Pepperoni Pizza at Home

Use pre-made dough: Save time by using store-bought pizza dough instead of making it from scratch.

Quick sauce: Opt for a quick pizza sauce by mixing tomato sauce with spices instead of simmering a complex sauce.

Pre-shredded cheese: Use pre-shredded mozzarella cheese to cut down on prep time.

Pepperoni prep: Buy pre-sliced pepperoni to avoid the need for chopping.

Preheat efficiently: Preheat your oven and pizza stone simultaneously to save time.

One-pan method: Use a cast iron skillet for both stovetop and oven cooking to streamline the process.

Substitute Ingredients For Homemade Pepperoni Pizza Recipe

pizza dough - Substitute with naan bread: Naan bread provides a similar texture and can be a quick alternative to homemade dough.
pizza sauce - Substitute with pesto sauce: Pesto offers a different flavor profile but works well as a pizza base.
pepperoni - Substitute with salami: Salami has a similar texture and flavor, making it a good alternative to pepperoni.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone melts well and has a mild flavor similar to mozzarella.
ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor.
fresh oregano - Substitute with dried oregano: Dried oregano is more concentrated, so use less to achieve a similar flavor.
flour - Substitute with cornmeal: Cornmeal can be used to dust the pizza peel, preventing sticking and adding a slight crunch.
tomato sauce - Substitute with crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes can be seasoned to create a quick and fresh-tasting pizza sauce.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and flavor, making it a good alternative.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor when fresh garlic is not available.
onion - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can be used to impart a similar flavor in the sauce.
red pepper flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds heat and can be used in smaller quantities.
olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and can be used in place of olive oil.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a spreadable alternative to butter.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a similar sweetness and can be used in the honey butter mixture.

How to Serve Homemade Pepperoni Pizza

Use a wood-fired oven: Achieve an authentic, smoky flavor by baking the pizza in a wood-fired oven. This method ensures a perfectly crisp crust and a slightly charred finish.
Hand-stretch the dough: Instead of using a rolling pin, hand-stretch the pizza dough to create a more rustic and artisanal look. This technique also helps to maintain the dough's airy texture.
Layer the sauce thinly: Apply a thin layer of pizza sauce evenly across the dough, leaving a ¼-inch border for the crust. This ensures the sauce doesn't overpower the other ingredients.
Use high-quality pepperoni: Select premium pepperoni slices with a good balance of fat and spice. Arrange them artfully on the pizza to ensure each bite has a perfect amount of meat.
Grate fresh mozzarella: Opt for fresh mozzarella cheese and grate it yourself. This not only melts better but also provides a creamier texture and richer flavor.
Season with freshly ground black pepper: Add a touch of freshly ground black pepper over the pizza before baking to enhance the overall flavor profile.
Garnish with fresh oregano: Once the pizza is out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped oregano on top. This adds a burst of color and a fragrant aroma.
Serve with honey butter: Prepare a side of honey butter by mixing softened butter with honey. This unique addition provides a sweet contrast to the savory pizza and is perfect for dipping the crust.
Present on a wooden board: Serve the pizza on a rustic wooden board. This not only looks appealing but also keeps the pizza warm longer.
Slice with precision: Use a sharp pizza cutter to slice the pizza into even pieces. This ensures a clean cut and makes it easier to serve.
Pair with a side salad: Complement the pizza with a fresh side salad. Use mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pizza.
Reheat with care: If there are leftovers, reheat the pizza in a sturdy skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Cover with a lid to melt the cheese and crisp up the crust.

Essential Tools for Making Pepperoni Pizza at Home

Pizza stone: A ceramic or stone slab that helps achieve a crispy crust by evenly distributing heat.
Oven: Essential for baking the pizza at a high temperature to ensure a perfectly cooked crust and melted cheese.
Pizza peel: A flat, shovel-like tool used to transfer the pizza to and from the oven, especially useful when using a pizza stone.
Rolling pin: Used to roll out the pizza dough to the desired thickness and shape.
Flour: Helps prevent the dough from sticking to surfaces and tools during preparation.
Cast-iron skillet: An alternative to a pizza stone, providing a different method for achieving a crispy crust.
Grater: Used for grating the mozzarella cheese to evenly distribute it over the pizza.
Cutting board: A surface for slicing the finished pizza into pieces.
Knife: Essential for chopping pepperoni and slicing the finished pizza.
Mixing bowl: Used for mixing the ingredients for the quick pizza sauce.
Spoon: For spreading the pizza sauce evenly over the dough.
Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurement of ingredients for the sauce and seasoning.
Skillet lid: Used when reheating leftover pizza in a skillet to help melt the cheese and crisp the crust.
Spatula: Useful for transferring the pizza from the skillet to the cutting board.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Pepperoni Pizza

Here are the detailed storing and freezing guidelines for homemade pepperoni pizza:

Let the pizza cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the crust from getting soggy and the toppings from sliding off.
To store leftover pizza in the fridge:
- Place the cooled slices in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Leftover pizza can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, place the slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and the crust is crispy. Alternatively, you can reheat the slices in a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil and a lid to melt the cheese.
To freeze leftover pizza for longer storage:
- Wrap the cooled slices tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Frozen pizza can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat, place the frozen slices on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through and the crust is crispy. There's no need to thaw the slices before reheating.
If you want to freeze an entire unbaked pizza for later:
- Assemble the pizza on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then freeze it until solid (about 2-3 hours).
- Wrap the frozen pizza tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Frozen unbaked pizza can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
- To bake, remove the pizza from the freezer and unwrap it. Place it on a preheated pizza stone or baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 500°F (260°C) for 10-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

The Best Ways to Reheat Leftover Pepperoni Pizza

The best way to reheat leftover homemade pepperoni pizza is in a skillet on the stovetop. Place a slice or two in a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat, and add a drizzle of olive oil to help crisp up the crust. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy.
Another great option is to reheat the pizza in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the pizza slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy. For an extra crispy crust, you can also place the baking sheet directly on the oven rack for the last few minutes of baking.
If you're in a hurry, you can also reheat your pizza in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-60 seconds, or until the cheese is melted and the pizza is heated through. To help prevent the crust from getting soggy, you can place a glass of water in the microwave alongside the pizza to help absorb some of the moisture.
For a unique twist, try reheating your pizza on the grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and place the pizza slices directly on the grates. Close the lid and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy. This method adds a nice smoky flavor to the pizza and is perfect for summer days when you don't want to heat up your kitchen.
If you have an air fryer, you can also use it to reheat your pizza. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the pizza slices in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy. This method is quick and easy, and results in a perfectly crispy crust every time.

Interesting Trivia About Pepperoni Pizza

A fun fact about this homemade pepperoni pizza recipe is that using a pizza stone can significantly enhance the crust's texture, making it crispier and more evenly cooked.

Is Making Pepperoni Pizza at Home Cost-Effective?

This homemade pepperoni pizza recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like pizza dough, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni are relatively affordable. Making the pizza sauce from scratch with pantry staples like tomato sauce, garlic, and onion further reduces costs. The optional honey butter add-on is a minimal expense. Overall, this recipe scores an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $12-$15 USD.

Is Pepperoni Pizza Healthy or Unhealthy?

This homemade pepperoni pizza recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The dough and crust are made from refined flour, which is low in fiber and nutrients.
Pepperoni is high in saturated fat and sodium, which can contribute to heart disease and high blood pressure when consumed in excess.
Mozzarella cheese is also high in saturated fat and calories.
The recipe calls for a significant amount of cheese and pepperoni, which can make the pizza calorie-dense.
The optional honey butter add-on increases the calorie and sugar content of the dish.

However, the recipe does include some healthier elements, such as the homemade pizza sauce, which contains tomatoes (a good source of lycopene) and various spices.

To make this pizza healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use a whole wheat or multigrain pizza dough to increase the fiber content and nutritional value of the crust.
Reduce the amount of cheese and pepperoni used, or opt for lower-fat cheese and turkey pepperoni.
Add more vegetables to the pizza, such as bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and spinach, to increase the fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Use a lighter hand when applying the cheese and sauce to reduce the overall calorie content.
Skip the honey butter add-on to reduce the calorie and sugar content of the meal.
Serve the pizza with a side salad to add more vegetables and balance out the meal.

Editor's Opinion on This Homemade Pepperoni Pizza Recipe

This homemade pepperoni pizza recipe is a delightful blend of simplicity and flavor. The instructions are clear and adaptable, catering to both pizza stone and skillet methods. The quick pizza sauce is well-balanced, and the honey butter add-on offers a unique twist for crust dipping. Using fresh oregano as a finishing touch elevates the dish. The recipe's flexibility and thoughtful details, like reheating tips, make it accessible for home cooks. Overall, it's a well-rounded, delicious approach to classic pepperoni pizza.

Enhance Your Homemade Pepperoni Pizza Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Knots: Imagine the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen. These Garlic Parmesan Knots are the perfect companion to your homemade pepperoni pizza. Soft, buttery, and infused with the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese, they offer a delightful contrast to the savory, cheesy goodness of the pizza. Dip them in marinara sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Caprese Salad: Brighten up your meal with a Caprese Salad. The fresh, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil leaves drizzled with a balsamic reduction create a symphony of flavors that complement the rich, hearty notes of your pepperoni pizza. It's a refreshing and elegant side that adds a touch of sophistication to your pizza night.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: For a side dish that packs a punch, try Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon. The crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts paired with smoky, savory bacon create a mouthwatering combination that will have everyone reaching for seconds. The slight bitterness of the sprouts is balanced by the richness of the bacon, making it a perfect match for the cheesy, pepperoni-laden pizza.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Warm up your soul with a bowl of Creamy Tomato Basil Soup. This velvety, rich soup is bursting with the flavors of ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil, creating a comforting and satisfying side dish. The creamy texture and tangy taste provide a delightful contrast to the crispy crust and gooey cheese of your pepperoni pizza.

Chocolate Lava Cake: End your meal on a sweet note with a decadent Chocolate Lava Cake. The warm, gooey chocolate center oozes out as you cut into the cake, creating a luxurious dessert experience. The rich, intense flavor of the chocolate pairs beautifully with the savory notes of the pepperoni pizza, making it a perfect finale to your pizza feast.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Pepperoni Pizza

Margherita Pizza: Experience the simplicity and elegance of Margherita Pizza. With a base of fresh tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella cheese, and fragrant basil leaves, this classic Italian dish is a celebration of fresh ingredients. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.

BBQ Chicken Pizza: Dive into the smoky and savory flavors of BBQ Chicken Pizza. Topped with tender grilled chicken, tangy barbecue sauce, and a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheese, this pizza is a crowd-pleaser. Add some red onions and cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

Veggie Supreme Pizza: For a burst of color and flavor, try Veggie Supreme Pizza. Loaded with a variety of fresh vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, red onions, and black olives, this pizza is both hearty and healthy. A sprinkle of feta cheese adds a tangy finish.

Hawaiian Pizza: Transport yourself to the tropics with Hawaiian Pizza. This unique combination of sweet pineapple chunks and savory ham on a bed of melted mozzarella is a delightful twist on traditional pizza. A dash of red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick.

Buffalo Chicken Pizza: Spice up your pizza night with Buffalo Chicken Pizza. Featuring spicy buffalo sauce, shredded chicken breast, and a blend of blue cheese and mozzarella, this pizza is perfect for those who love a bit of heat. Top with celery and ranch dressing for the ultimate flavor experience.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Homemade Pepperoni Pizza

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms. Each mushroom cap is filled with a delectable mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and finely chopped spinach. The filling is then topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and baked until golden brown. The result is a creamy, cheesy bite that pairs perfectly with a crisp white wine. These mushrooms are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a great start to any meal.

Bruschetta: Create a burst of flavor with this classic bruschetta. Fresh tomatoes are diced and mixed with basil, garlic, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. This vibrant mixture is then spooned onto slices of toasted baguette, which have been rubbed with olive oil and garlic. The combination of the crunchy bread and the juicy, flavorful topping makes for a delightful appetizer that is sure to impress. Serve with a chilled rosé to enhance the experience.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a rich, molten chocolate center encased in a delicate, fluffy cake. This dessert is a showstopper, perfect for those who crave a decadent treat. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side, and watch as the chocolate lava flows out with the first bite. A sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries add a touch of elegance and a burst of flavor.

Tiramisu: Transport your taste buds to Italy with this classic coffee-flavored dessert. Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers are interspersed with a creamy mixture of mascarpone cheese and whipped cream. The top is dusted with a generous layer of cocoa powder, adding a hint of bitterness to balance the sweetness. Serve chilled, and consider adding a drizzle of coffee liqueur for an extra kick. This dessert is perfect for ending a meal on a sophisticated note.

Why trust this Homemade Pepperoni Pizza Recipe:

This recipe for homemade pepperoni pizza is crafted with care and precision, ensuring a delicious and authentic taste. The use of a preheated pizza stone guarantees a perfectly crispy crust, while the combination of mozzarella cheese and pepperoni offers a classic flavor that everyone loves. The quick pizza sauce is easy to make and packed with flavor, and the optional honey butter add-on provides a unique twist for dipping the crust. Trust this recipe for a satisfying and enjoyable homemade pizza experience.

Have you tried this homemade pepperoni pizza recipe? Let us know how it turned out and share your own tips and tricks in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How do I make the pizza dough from scratch?

Making pizza dough from scratch is pretty simple. You'll need 3 ½ to 4 cups of flour, 1 packet of active dry yeast, 1 ½ cups of warm water, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 teaspoons of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it's frothy. Mix in the olive oil, flour, and salt, then knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it's smooth and elastic. Let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it doubles in size.

Can I use store-bought pizza sauce instead of making my own?

Absolutely, you can use store-bought pizza sauce if you're short on time or just prefer it. The homemade sauce recipe is there for those who like to make everything from scratch, but feel free to use whatever sauce you like best.

How can I make the crust extra crispy?

To get an extra crispy crust, make sure your oven is fully preheated to 500 degrees F and use a pizza stone if you have one. Preheating the stone for at least 20 minutes helps a lot. Also, rolling the dough out thinly and using a light hand with the sauce can help keep the crust from getting soggy.

What can I do if I don't have a pizza stone or cast iron skillet?

No worries if you don't have a pizza stone or cast iron skillet. You can use a regular baking sheet. Just make sure to preheat it in the oven so it's hot when you place the pizza on it. This will help mimic the effect of a pizza stone and give you a better crust.

How do I store and reheat leftover pizza?

Store leftover pizza in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, use a sturdy skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook until the cheese has melted and the crust is crispy. This method helps keep the crust from getting soggy, unlike microwaving.