Gourmet Pepperoni Pizza with Garlic Herb Crust 🍕🧄

 New Recipe

Gourmet Pepperoni Pizza with Garlic Herb Crust 🍕🧄

Ingredients:

• For the Dough (makes one 12-inch pizza):

  • 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp sugar

• For the Garlic Herb Crust:

  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp dried parsley

• For the Pizza Toppings:

  • 1/2 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 20-25 slices pepperoni
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

   • In a small bowl, combine the yeast, warm water, and sugar. Stir and let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until the dough comes together.
   • Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

2. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat.

3. Prepare the Garlic Herb Crust:

   • In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, oregano, and parsley. Set aside.

4. Shape the Dough:

   • Punch down the dough and roll it out into a 12-inch circle. Transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet or a pizza peel dusted with cornmeal.

5. Assemble the Pizza:

   • Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border for the crust.
   • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
   • Arrange the pepperoni slices on top of the cheese.
   • Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using) over the pepperoni.

6. Bake the Pizza:

   • Transfer the pizza to the preheated oven (or onto the pizza stone). Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.

7. Brush the Crust:

   • Immediately after removing the pizza from the oven, brush the crust with the garlic herb butter for added flavor.

8. Garnish and Serve:

   • Garnish with fresh basil leaves before slicing. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces, if desired.

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Optional Variations:

• Extra Toppings: Add mushrooms, black olives, or green bell peppers for a loaded version.
• Spicy Kick: Use spicy pepperoni or drizzle with hot honey after baking.
• Cheese Blend: Mix mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a richer cheese flavor.