Homemade Cheese Pizza Recipe

Who can resist a slice of warm, cheesy pizza fresh from the oven? This Homemade Cheese Pizza Recipe is the perfect way to satisfy your pizza cravings with minimal effort. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or just a quick meal, this recipe delivers a perfect crispy crust topped with flavorful sauce and gooey melted cheese every time!

Making your own pizza is really easy!  The simplest type of homemade pizza is cheese pizza.  All you need to do to make it is brush the pizza crust with oil, then brush with tomato sauce, then sprinkle with cheese and bake!  Piping hot homemade pizza fresh out of the oven – delicious!

Why You’ll Love Homemade Cheese Pizza

• The simplicity of this recipe makes it ideal for both beginners and experienced cooks. With just a few basic ingredients, you can have a restaurant-quality pizza without leaving your home.
• The combination of a crispy crust, savory tomato sauce, and melted cheese creates a delightful balance of flavors. It’s the ultimate comfort food for pizza lovers of all ages.
• You can customize this pizza to suit your taste. Add your favorite toppings, such as veggies or meats, or keep it classic with just cheese – it’s up to you!
• This recipe is quick and easy, taking only about 10-15 minutes to bake. Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you crave something delicious in no time.
• Whether you’re using store-bought or homemade pizza dough, this recipe is incredibly versatile. It’s a great way to impress your family or guests with minimal effort!

Ingredients:

• Pizza crust (homemade or store-bought): You can use either homemade or store-bought dough, depending on your preference and time.
• Olive oil: Brushing olive oil on the crust gives it a nice golden color and added flavor.
• Canned crushed tomatoes: These create the base of your pizza sauce, giving it a fresh, tangy taste.
• Dried oregano or basil: A sprinkle of herbs adds a burst of traditional Italian flavor.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: The star of the show! This gives you the gooey, cheesy topping that everyone loves.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Homemade Cheese Pizza

• Perforated pizza pan or cookie sheet: Ensures even baking and a crispy crust.
• Brush: For spreading olive oil evenly over the pizza crust.
• Measuring spoons: To measure out the olive oil and herbs accurately.
• Oven: For baking the pizza to golden, bubbly perfection.

Directions:

Preheat oven to 450F.

Put the pizza crust on a perforated pizza pan or a cookie sheet.

Brush the pizza crust with olive oil.

Spread the crushed tomatoes on the pizza crust.

Lightly sprinkle with dried oregano or basil.

Sprinkle with shredded cheese.

Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve your Homemade Cheese Pizza with a side of fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• Pair it with zucchini bread or breadsticks for a true pizzeria experience.
• Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.
• For a fun twist, serve with a selection of dipping sauces like ranch, cucumber yogurt, or spicy mayo.

Tips For Success

• Use a Perforated Pizza Pan or Cookie Sheet: For a crispier crust, use a perforated pizza pan. This allows air to circulate under the pizza as it bakes, giving you a perfectly crispy bottom. If you don’t have a perforated pan, a cookie sheet will work as well, but be sure to bake it on the middle rack for even heat distribution.
• Brush Olive Oil on the Crust: This simple step adds flavor and helps the crust bake to a beautiful golden brown. You don’t need much—just a light coating will do the trick. It also helps prevent the crust from becoming soggy under the tomato sauce.
• Don’t Overload on Sauce: While it’s tempting to add a lot of sauce, too much can make your pizza soggy. A thin, even layer of sauce will give you that classic pizza taste without overpowering the crust.
• Bake on High Heat: Baking your pizza at 450°F ensures the cheese melts beautifully and the crust crisps up nicely. Be sure to check your pizza after 10 minutes, as ovens can vary, and you don’t want the cheese to burn.
• Use Fresh Mozzarella for a Gourmet Touch: While pre-shredded mozzarella works great for this recipe, using fresh mozzarella slices can take your pizza to the next level. Fresh mozzarella melts into creamy pockets of cheesy goodness that complement the tomato sauce perfectly.

Variations And Substitutions

• Add Vegetables: For a healthier twist, top your pizza with veggies like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or spinach. These add texture and flavor without overpowering the simplicity of the cheese pizza.
• Use a Different Cheese: While mozzarella is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or even a sprinkle of parmesan for extra depth of flavor. Mixing cheeses can add a delightful twist to your pizza.
• Gluten-Free Option: If you’re gluten intolerant, swap out the regular pizza crust for a gluten-free alternative. Many stores carry gluten-free pizza dough or pre-made crusts, allowing you to enjoy this recipe without worry.
• Whole Wheat Crust: For a healthier option, you can use a whole wheat pizza crust instead of the traditional white flour version. Whole wheat crust adds extra fiber and nutrients while still maintaining a delicious, chewy texture.
• Low-Carb Option: For those watching their carbs, you can use a cauliflower or almond flour crust. These alternatives are a great way to enjoy pizza while sticking to a low-carb diet.
• Add Protein: Want to make your cheese pizza heartier? Add slices of pepperoni, cooked sausage, or shredded chicken to give your pizza a protein boost. You can even use plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian-friendly option.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: If you have leftover pizza, let it cool completely before storing it. Wrap the slices in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. Store the pizza in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can also freeze leftover pizza for up to 2 months. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then in foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat directly from frozen.
• Reheating: To reheat your pizza, place it on a baking sheet in a 375°F oven for 8-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is crisp again. For a quicker option, use a microwave, though the crust may not stay as crispy. Another great method is reheating pizza in a skillet on medium heat for a few minutes, which keeps the crust crunchy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a pre-made pizza crust for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use a pre-made pizza crust for this recipe. It’s a great time-saver and works perfectly for quick meals. Whether it’s store-bought or homemade, the rest of the process remains the same—just add your toppings and bake!

What type of tomato sauce should I use?

Canned crushed tomatoes work wonderfully for this recipe, as they provide a fresh, slightly chunky texture that complements the cheese well. You can also use pizza sauce, marinara, or even homemade tomato sauce if you prefer. Feel free to season the sauce with herbs to boost flavor.

How do I prevent my pizza crust from getting soggy?

To avoid a soggy crust, don’t overload your pizza with sauce or toppings. Also, brushing the crust with olive oil before adding the sauce creates a barrier that helps prevent moisture from seeping in. Baking the pizza on a perforated pan or pizza stone also promotes a crispier crust.

Can I make this pizza gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap out the traditional pizza dough with a gluten-free option. There are many pre-made gluten-free pizza crusts available at the store, or you can make your own. The toppings remain the same, so you can still enjoy all the deliciousness of homemade pizza without the gluten.

How can I make this pizza ahead of time?

You can prepare the pizza up to the point of adding the cheese and toppings, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the preheated oven and add a couple of minutes to the baking time. This makes meal prep super easy!

Other Easy Pizza Recipes

Garlic Cheese Pizza Recipe: A flavorful pizza topped with a rich garlic sauce and melted cheese, perfect for garlic lovers.

Air Fryer Naan Bread Pizza: This easy Air Fryer Naan Bread Pizza is a quick and delicious personal-sized pizza, ready in minutes.

Crescent Roll Pizza Bites: These bite-sized pizza rolls are made with crescent dough, filled with your favorite pizza toppings, and baked to golden perfection.

Air Fryer Frozen French Bread Pizza Recipe: Crisp and cheesy, this Air Fryer Frozen French Bread Pizza cooks up fast for a quick and satisfying meal.

Homemade Air Fryer Pizza Using Pizza Dough: Enjoy a homemade pizza with a crispy crust using fresh pizza dough and your favorite toppings, made effortlessly in the air fryer.

Air Fryer English Muffin Mini Pizzas: These English Muffin Mini Pizzas are a fun and easy snack, topped with sauce, cheese, and baked in the air fryer until bubbly.

Air Fryer Frozen Pizza Puffs Recipe: Quickly cook up frozen pizza puffs in the air fryer for a crunchy and cheesy snack in no time.

 

See also: Homemade Pizza Crust Recipe