How to Make the Perfect Cheese Pizza

Cheese pizza is a popular dish that has captivated many palates around the world. Whether you are a fan of classic pepperoni or simply enjoy a plain cheese slice, this versatile dish offers endless possibilities. Today, we will show you how to make an authentic homemade cheese pizza in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 3 tablespoons of olive oil, plus more for greasing
• 2-1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast
• 1 cup of warm water
• A 14.5-ounce can of whole milk shredded mozzarella cheese (about 3 cups)
• 3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese for topping
• Olive oil or cooking spray for the pizza stone or baking sheet
• Pizza sauce to taste (optional)

Instructions

To start, mix together 1-1/4 cups of flour with salt and yeast in a large bowl. Add 3 tablespoons of olive oil along with warm water into the mixture. Stir until it forms a dough. If your dough is too sticky, add more flour.

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface to knead for about five minutes or until smooth. Place it back into the greased bowl, cover tightly with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for one hour or until doubled in size.

Baking the Pizza

Preheat your oven to 475°F (246°C). Prepare a pizza stone or baking sheet by placing it on an elevated surface so that when you slide the parchment paper off, the pizza will fall right onto the cooking surface. Alternatively, you can use a regular baking sheet lined with cooking spray.

Once your dough has risen, punch down and knead again for 30 seconds. Roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface or corn meal dusted area. Transfer the rolled-out pizza dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce if you prefer.

Adding the Cheese

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pizza base followed by Parmesan for extra flavor. You can also add your favorite toppings such as sliced pepperoni, bell peppers, onions, or olives according to taste.

Place the assembled pizza into the preheated oven. Bake until the crust is golden brown and the cheese has bubbled up. This typically takes about 15-20 minutes depending on your oven's performance. Keep an eye on it as the baking time can vary slightly from one kitchen to another.

Serving Suggestions

This simple yet delicious pizza can be served hot right out of the oven with a side salad and garlic breadsticks. For a more sophisticated meal, serve alongside Caesar Salad or a Caprese Salad if you choose not to use any toppings other than cheese.

Cooking Time & Servings

Preparation time: Approximately 45 minutes for making the dough plus waiting time for it to rise. Baking time: About 15-20 minutes. Serves 4-6 people, depending on portion size and appetite.

Tips for Success

• Ensure your oven is preheated correctly before placing the pizza inside as incorrect temperatures can affect how quickly it browns and cooks.
• The dough should not be too stiff; if necessary, add some more water or flour until you achieve a workable consistency.
• For crispier edges, make sure not to overfill your pizzas. Leave some space between the toppings so they can cook properly without becoming soggy in the middle.

Cheese pizza remains one of those foods that people love and appreciate. It's not just about enjoying a delicious meal; it’s also an experience that brings families together, perfect for casual evenings or gatherings with friends. With these simple steps and tips, you too can enjoy making homemade cheese pizzas at home.