16 Inch Pizza
A classic 16 inch pizza made from scratch, featuring a perfect balance of crust, sauce, and toppings for a delicious homemade experience.
Equipment
- 1 pizza stone preheated
- 1 Rolling Pin
- 1 Mixing Bowl large
Ingredients
Dough
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast 2 1/4 tsp
- 2 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 1/4 cups warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Sauce
- 1 can 15 oz crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/4 cup sliced bell peppers
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add warm water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
Sauce and Toppings
- In a blender, combine crushed tomatoes, garlic, oregano, and basil. Blend until smooth. Simmer in a saucepan over medium heat for 20-30 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone inside to heat up.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to a 16 inch circle. Transfer to a cornmeal-dusted pizza peel or baking sheet.
Assembling and Baking
- Spread the sauce over the dough, leaving a border for the crust. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and add toppings evenly.
- Slide the pizza onto the preheated stone and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
Serving and Storage
- Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy.
- Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispness.
Notes
Pro Tips: Ensure your oven and pizza stone are fully preheated for a crispy crust. Don't overload the pizza with toppings to allow even cooking. Ingredient Substitutions: Whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier crust, and vegan cheese for a dairy-free option. How to Serve: Pair with a fresh salad and a glass of red wine. Storage & Freshness: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat in the oven. Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the dough a day ahead and let it rise slowly in the fridge for a more developed flavor.