The Ultimate Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Delight

Ingredients:

For the Pizza Dough:

• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
• 2 1/2 – 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Pizza Toppings:

• 1/2 cup pizza sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 20 slices pepperoni (or more, as desired)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pizza Dough:
   • In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups of flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.
   • Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, adding more flour as needed, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
2. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat as well.
3. Roll Out the Dough:
   • Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a circle or rectangle, depending on your preference, to fit your pizza pan or baking sheet.
4. Assemble the Pizza:
   • Transfer the rolled-out dough to a pizza pan or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   • Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
   • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese.
   • Arrange the pepperoni slices evenly over the cheese.
   • Sprinkle dried oregano and basil over the top, and add crushed red pepper flakes if desired for extra heat.
5. Bake the Pizza:
   • Carefully transfer the assembled pizza to the preheated oven or pizza stone.
   • Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
6. Serve:
   • Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
   • Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
   • Slice and serve your Ultimate Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Delight hot and fresh!

Enjoy the gooey, cheesy goodness and savory flavors of this homemade pepperoni pizza. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or for sharing with friends and family!