Syd's Basic Pizza

Create the perfect homemade pizza night with Syd's Basic Pizza, a foolproof recipe that combines a soft, homemade dough with a simple yet flavorful tomato-garlic sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese. Crafted with pantry staples like all-purpose flour, instant yeast, and canned tomatoes, this recipe is ideal for beginners and pizza enthusiasts alike. The dough, kneaded to perfection and baked at high heat, results in a crisp, golden crust that’s the ultimate canvas for your favorite toppings—or stick to the classic combination with optional fresh basil leaves for a pop of freshness. Ready in just over 90 minutes, including rising time, this recipe yields two perfectly customizable 12-inch pizzas, making it a family favorite for easy dinners or casual gatherings. Whether you’re craving a classic Margherita or your own creative twist, Syd’s Basic Pizza is your gateway to homemade pizza greatness.

Nutriscore Rating: 66/100

Prep Time:90 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:105 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 3.5 cups All-purpose flour
• 2.25 teaspoons Instant yeast
• 1 tablespoon Sugar
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1.25 cups Warm water
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 cup Canned crushed tomatoes
• 2 cloves Garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt (for sauce)
• 2 cups Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 6 leaves Fresh basil leaves (optional)

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix well to combine.

Step 2

Gradually add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until the dough starts to come together.

Step 3

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Add more flour as needed to prevent sticking.

Step 4

Lightly oil a clean bowl and place the dough inside. Cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 60-75 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Step 5

While the dough is rising, prepare the sauce. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

Step 6

Stir in the canned crushed tomatoes, oregano, and salt. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Step 7

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a pizza stone or an inverted baking sheet in the oven to heat up.

Step 8

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two equal portions (for two 12-inch pizzas). Roll one portion out on a lightly floured surface into a 12-inch circle.

Step 9

Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough onto a piece of parchment paper. Using a fork, poke several holes across the surface to prevent large air bubbles from forming.

Step 10

Spread a thin, even layer of the prepared tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.

Step 11

Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, and add fresh basil leaves if desired.

Step 12

Carefully transfer the pizza (with the parchment paper) onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Step 13

Repeat the rolling and topping process with the second half of the dough.

Step 14

Remove the pizza from the oven, allow to cool for a few minutes, slice, and serve warm. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1250.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2604.9

Total Fat 81.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 33.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 176.0mg	0%
Sodium 5179.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 360.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 18.1g	0%
Total Sugars 27.5g
Protein 98.0g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1747.7mg	0%
Iron 24.3mg	0%
Potassium 1537.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 28.4%

Protein: 15.3%

Carbs: 56.3%