Classic Homemade Cheese Pizza with Mozzarella and Parmesan
This is the plain cheese pizza everyone comes back to: a thin layer of sauce, plenty of melted mozzarella and a little Parmesan for sharpness. A very hot oven gives a browned, crisp crust in minutes. It works for a quick family dinner, a party or a movie night.
Preparation Steps
Heat the oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone or steel, put it in the oven now so it heats for at least 30 minutes.
Let the dough sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes so it stretches easily. On a lightly floured counter, press and roll it into a round about 12 inches (30 cm) across.
Move the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet, or to a floured pizza peel if you are using a stone.
Spoon the sauce into the center and spread it outward with the back of the spoon, leaving a 1/2-inch (1 cm) bare rim for the crust.
Scatter the mozzarella evenly over the sauce, then sprinkle on the Parmesan.
Brush the bare rim and drizzle the top lightly with olive oil, then dust with oregano and garlic powder.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the crust is deep golden underneath and the cheese is bubbling with a few browned spots.
Rest the pizza for 2 minutes so the cheese sets a little, then slice and serve.
Tips & Variations
- Pat the mozzarella dry if it feels wet; excess moisture makes the center soggy.
- Add pepperoni, mushrooms or sliced olives on top of the cheese for an easy variation.
- Refrigerate leftover slices in a sealed container for up to 3 days and reheat in a hot skillet or oven until the cheese is bubbling.
Community Comments (0)
Have thoughts on this recipe?
Sign in to leave a comment or share your cooking experience.
No comments yet
Be the first to share your thoughts on this dish!