There’s nothing quite like a classic Pepperoni Pizza—crispy edges, bubbling cheese, and savory pepperoni slices that curl into little flavor-packed cups as they bake. This recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned home cooks alike, offering a simple method with reliable results every time. Whether you’re planning a family pizza night or craving homemade comfort food, this Pepperoni Pizza delivers that iconic pizzeria-style taste right from your own oven.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
- Additional Time: 1 hour (dough rising)
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Servings: 8 slices
- Yield: One 12–14-inch pizza
Ingredients
Pizza Dough
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, helps activate yeast)
Toppings
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 25–40 pepperoni slices (regular or cup-and-char style)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Fresh basil or red pepper flakes for serving (optional)
Directions
- Make the Dough:
In a medium bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy. Stir in flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms. Turn onto a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. - Let Dough Rise:
Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size. - Preheat the Oven:
Heat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat as well. A hot surface helps achieve that pizzeria-style crisp crust. - Shape the Pizza:
Punch down the dough. Stretch or roll it into a 12–14-inch circle. Transfer to parchment paper or a lightly floured pizza peel if using a stone. For a crispier crust, avoid over-thickening the center. - Add the Toppings:
Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Sprinkle mozzarella over the sauce. Arrange pepperoni slices on top—remember they shrink and cup slightly during baking. - Season (Optional):
Lightly dust with oregano or garlic powder for extra flavor. - Bake:
Transfer the pizza to the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Rotate halfway for even browning if needed. - Rest and Slice:
Let the pizza cool for 3–5 minutes before slicing. This helps the cheese set and prevents toppings from sliding off.
Tip: For ultra-crispy pepperoni, place half the slices under the cheese and the rest on top. For a softer, chewier crust, brush the edges with olive oil before baking.
Nutrition Facts (per serving) — Estimated Values
- Calories: 285
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 28mg
- Sodium: 610mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Total Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 14g
Values may vary based on crust thickness, cheese quantity, and the type of pepperoni used.
Pro Tip:
For an even more authentic pizzeria-style pepperoni pizza, consider using a countertop pizza oven. These compact ovens reach higher temperatures than standard home ovens, helping you achieve that perfectly blistered crust, bubbling cheese, and crisped pepperoni in just minutes. If you don’t already own one—or if you're thinking about upgrading—this is one of the easiest ways to elevate every homemade pizza you bake. For models that consistently deliver restaurant-quality results, click the button below to explore top-rated countertop pizza ovens on Amazon.
Conclusion
Homemade Pepperoni Pizza is one of the most rewarding dishes you can make in your kitchen—simple ingredients, quick preparation, and mouthwatering results. This recipe brings out the best of classic pizza flavors with a crisp crust, gooey mozzarella, and perfectly baked pepperoni. Feel free to personalize it with extra toppings, herbs, or finishing touches like a drizzle of olive oil or hot honey. Enjoy your pizza night, and share the joy of fresh, homemade pizza with the people you love!
