Homemade Pizza

Pizza Dough:
1 pkg yeast or 2-1/4 t
1-1/8 c warm water (110 degrees)
2-3/4 c flour
1 t salt
1 T Italian seasoning
1 t garlic powder
1 T olive oil

You'll also need additional olive oil to coat the pans.


Toppings:
1 - 8 oz can of tomato sauce mixed with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and about 1 teaspoon of salt (or your choice of pizza sauce)
1 - 8 oz package of mozzarella cheese
Your favorite pizza toppings. (If using pepperoni, microwave pepperoni on a paper towel for about 15 seconds to get rid of excess grease!)

1) Dissolve Yeast in warm water and let sit until it starts to bubble
2) Combine flour, seasonings, and salt in kitchen aid mixer with the dough hook. (or you can start in a food processor)  Slowly add water/yeast mixture to flour and mix slowly until it comes together.  You may need to add a little flour or water to make it the right consistency.  (If using food processor, you will need to take it out and knead it by hand after adding yeast/water.  Use as little flour as possible)  Knead or mix until dough is round and soft, but a little sticky.
3) Coat a big bowl with 1T olive oil.  Put dough in bowl and turn over so all sides are covered in oil. Seal with plastic wrap and let rise in warm place until doubles. (To speed this part, I usually preheat my oven to 170, and once it gets warm, I turn the oven off and put the dough in.  This helps is rise in 20-30 minutes)
4) When the dough has risen, preheat the over to 425.  Coat bottom and sides of pan with olive oil. ( I use a pizza pan, you can also use a jelly roll pan or 9x13) Deflate risen dough and press into pan.
5) Press dough evenly on pan.  If dough will not stretch, let it rest for 30 seconds and try again. Spread on your pizza sauce (I use a small can of tomato sauce and add italian seasoning, garlic, and about a teaspoon of sugar)  Top with cheese and then your favorite pizza toppings.  Putting them on top helps the pepperoni crisp up nicely and everyone can see what is on it better.
6) Bake the pizza for about 15 minutes, or until the crust starts to brown on top.  




Variations:
Sometimes I take 1/3 of the dough and make cheese sticks.  Just follow the same steps, but instead of sauce and toppings, just brush with olive oil, sprinkle on some garlic powder, and top with a little cheese.  These may not need to cook as long as the pizza.  You can save some of the sauce aside for dipping.