🍕 Pepperoni Pizza – Crispy Crust, Melty Cheese & Spicy Pepperoni Perfection

Is there anything more universally loved than a hot, cheesy, perfectly baked Pepperoni Pizza? With its golden crust, gooey mozzarella, and that signature kick from spicy pepperoni slices, this pizza is a total crowd-pleaser—and surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether it’s pizza night with the family, a game-day gathering, or just a cozy weekend dinner, this homemade version beats delivery any day. You control the ingredients, the crust thickness, the cheesiness, and yes—even the pepperoni pile-on.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 45

Servings: 3

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Pizza Dough (makes 1 large pizza):

2¼ tsp active dry yeast 1 packet
¾ cup warm water 110°F/45°C
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp sugar
¾ tsp salt
1 Tbsp olive oil

For the Toppings:

⅓ cup pizza sauce store-bought or homemade
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
20 –30 slices pepperoni regular or turkey
1 Tbsp olive oil for brushing crust
Optional: crushed red pepper flakes dried oregano, or grated parmesan

Equipment

Pizza stone or baking sheet
Rolling pin (or clean wine bottle!)
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Measuring cups & spoons
Pizza cutter or sharp knife
Oven mitts
Parchment paper or cornmeal for dusting

Method

Make the Dough

In a bowl, mix yeast with warm water and sugar. Let sit 5–10 minutes until frothy.
Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Stir until dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 6–8 minutes.
Place in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.

Preheat the Oven

Place a pizza stone or inverted baking sheet in the oven.
Preheat to 475°F (245°C) for at least 30 minutes.

Roll Out the Dough

Punch down risen dough and roll into a 12–14 inch circle.
Place on parchment or a floured pizza peel. Brush edges with olive oil.

Assemble the Pizza

Spread sauce evenly over dough, leaving a border.
Top with mozzarella, then layer on the pepperoni.
Add any optional toppings or seasonings.

Bake

Slide the pizza (on parchment) onto the hot stone or pan.
Bake 10–13 minutes until crust is golden and cheese is bubbling.
Remove from oven, cool slightly, then slice and serve!

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator: Store slices in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer: Wrap slices in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheat: Bake at 375°F for 8–10 minutes or microwave in 30-second bursts.

🥄 Variations

Extra-Crispy Crust: Bake directly on a pizza stone or preheated cast iron pan.

Thick Crust: Use a smaller pan to keep dough thicker. Bake 3–5 minutes longer.

Cheese-Stuffed Crust: Fold shredded mozzarella into the crust before baking.

Spicy Version: Add jalapeños or hot honey drizzle.

Meat Lover’s: Add crumbled sausage, bacon bits, or ham along with the pepperoni.

❓ 10 FAQs

Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes! Pre-made dough saves time and still gives great results.

What’s the best cheese to use?
Low-moisture mozzarella melts best and browns beautifully.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely—store in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for later.

How do I stop the crust from getting soggy?
Preheat your baking surface and don’t overload with sauce.

Can I grill this pizza?
Yes—grill one side of the dough first, flip, add toppings, and grill until bubbly.

Do I have to use a pizza stone?
No, a baking sheet works fine, but a stone gives a crisper crust.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flour blend or ready-made GF dough.

Can I make it vegan?
Yes—use plant-based cheese and vegan pepperoni or veggie toppings.

What’s the best way to slice pepperoni thin?
Use a sharp knife or mandoline and partially freeze the log for easier slicing.

How do I make the edges bubbly and golden?
Brush with olive oil or butter before baking—add garlic powder or herbs for flavor.

🏁 Conclusion

This Pepperoni Pizza is everything a classic should be—cheesy, saucy, crispy-edged, and layered with bold flavor. Whether you’re a first-time dough maker or a seasoned pizza night pro, this recipe guarantees pizza parlor quality straight from your oven.

It’s the kind of recipe that never gets old—and always gets devoured.