Description

This Lunch Lady Pizza recipe features a homemade yeast pizza dough topped with a flavorful tomato sauce seasoned with herbs and garlic, then loaded with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Perfect for a delicious homemade pizza night, this recipe serves 8 to 10 people and offers options to add your favorite toppings such as sausage, pepperoni, or vegetables. The dough is soft and chewy with a crisp crust, making it a crowd-pleaser for family and friends.

Ingredients

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For the Dough

1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 teaspoon sugar
3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F)
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

For the Sauce

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Toppings

4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional: 1/2 cup cooked sausage, pepperoni, or vegetables (for added toppings)

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Instructions

Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve 1 teaspoon sugar in 3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F). Sprinkle 1 package active dry yeast over the water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is activated.
Make the Dough Mixture: In a large bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder if using. Add the yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons olive oil, then stir to form a dough.
Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic, ensuring proper gluten development.
Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and allow it to rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size, creating a soft and airy base for your pizza.
Prepare the Sauce: Combine 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce with 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon dried basil, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, salt and pepper to taste, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Mix well to blend the herbs and spices.
Preheat Oven and Shape Dough: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface to your desired size and thickness. Transfer to a greased pizza pan or baking sheet.
Assemble the Pizza: Spread the prepared tomato sauce evenly over the dough. Sprinkle 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese on top. Add any optional toppings such as cooked sausage, pepperoni, or vegetables.
Bake the Pizza: Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven, let it cool slightly, slice, and serve warm for a delicious homemade meal.

Notes

You can substitute active dry yeast with instant yeast but adjust the rising time accordingly.
Allowing the dough to fully rise ensures a light and airy crust.
Feel free to customize toppings to your preference, including vegetables for a vegetarian option.
For a crispier crust, prebake the rolled dough for 5 minutes before adding toppings.
If you prefer a thicker crust, roll out the dough less thinly and increase baking time slightly.