How to Make Authentic Pizza at Home from Scratch
Learn to create traditional Italian-style pizza using basic ingredients and techniques for a crispy crust and fresh toppings.
Tools and materials
- Large mixing bowl
- Kitchen scale
- Wooden spoon or dough hook
- Pizza stone or baking steel
- Pizza peel
- Oven
- 4 cups 00 flour or bread flour
- 1.5 cups warm water
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 can San Marzano tomatoes
- Fresh mozzarella
- Fresh basil
- Olive oil
Steps
1. Prepare the dough
Mix flour, water, salt, and yeast in a bowl until combined. Knead for 10 minutes until smooth, then let rise covered for 8-24 hours in the fridge.
2. Make the sauce
Crush tomatoes by hand, add a pinch of salt and olive oil. Do not cook the sauce.
3. Preheat the oven
Place pizza stone in oven and heat to maximum temperature (ideally 500°F) for at least 45 minutes.
4. Shape the dough
Divide dough into balls, stretch each by hand into a 12-inch circle on a floured surface, avoiding a rolling pin.
5. Assemble and bake
Transfer dough to peel, add sauce, cheese, and toppings. Slide onto stone and bake 8-12 minutes until crust is charred.
Tips
- Use a scale for precise measurements
- Allow long fermentation for better flavor
- Avoid overloading toppings to prevent sogginess
FAQ
Can I use all-purpose flour?
Yes, but 00 flour yields a more authentic thin crust.
How do I store leftover dough?
Refrigerate in an oiled container for up to 3 days or freeze.