Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (2024)

Whether it’s a classic caprese or a sweet pizookie, your pizza night just became a lot more exciting thanks to these homemade pizza recipes.

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (1)

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Table of Contents

  • Skip the Pizza Delivery
  • It’s a Pizza Party!
  • Favorite Pizza Toppings
  • Pizza Dough Recipes
  • Top 3 Pizza Sauces
  • Homemade Pizza Recipes with Meat
  • Vegetarian Homemade Pizzas
  • Other Types of Pizza Recipes
  • FAQs
  • Homemade Pizza Recipes Printable Recipe
  • The Full List of Homemade Pizza Recipes

Skip the Pizza Delivery

I love taking the night off and ordering in just as much as anyone, but I have yet to find a pizza delivery that can compare to any of these homemade pizza recipes.

Most of them start off with my homemade pizza dough and pizza sauce. Plus, many of the pizza recipes below take the same amount of, if not less, time as delivery.

With just a little prior planning, I can have all the components ready to go for a busy night so I just need to assemble and bake.

I start by picking a recipe from this list of amazing pizza recipes. Then I make the sauce early in the week and the dough earlier in the day, so I just have to add toppings and dinner is served.

All I need is a big Caesar salad or an Olive Garden salad and the meal is complete. Learning how to make pizza at home is so easy, what’s not to love about that?

It’s a Pizza Party!

For a really a fun evening, I might skip using any of these easy pizza recipes and instead have a make-your-own-pizza night. It’s so easy to do and such a big hit with kids and adults, especially with those who prefer certain foods. Here’s how I do it:

  • Make enough dough. You will want 1 small pizza per person. I can usually get 2 small pizzas from 1 batch of homemade pizza dough. If I am making enough for 6, I would plan on making 3 batches of dough. For a party of little kids sometimes I’ll just pick up dough from Trader Joe’s and divide into quarters.
  • Shape the dough. Let each person shape their own dough onto a baking sheet.
  • Set out the toppings. Have a variety of toppings (see below for ideas) set out with proper serving utensils.
  • Don’t forget the sauce and cheese. My favorite sauces are below and I will sometimes make all three for a little extra fun. I also like to set out other types of cheese along with shredded mozzarella.
  • Have fun. Let each person have fun creating their own perfect pie.

Favorite Pizza Toppings

I am not convinced that you really can’t put anything on a pizza (yes, even pineapple!), but here are a few of my go-to toppings that work well with most homemade pizza recipes. What would you add?

  • Pepperoni
  • Canadian bacon
  • Sausage
  • Bacon
  • Shredded chicken
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Arugula
  • Basil
  • Onion
  • Bell peppers
  • Garlic cloves
  • Olives
  • Mushrooms
  • Banana peppers
  • Balsamic vinegar
  • Pineapple

Pizza Dough Recipes

The pizza dough really does make the pizza. Thankfully, there are a few different types and cooking techniques to suit every taste and work with almost all homemade pizza recipes. Enjoy!

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (2)
  • Homemade pizza dough. This no-fail recipe is ready for baking in just 40 minutes.
  • Sheet pan pizza. I love to make this when I am serving a bunch of people.
  • Heart shaped pizza. The only way to make this cheesier is by adding extra mozzarella, and I love everything about it.
  • French bread pizza. The name says it all. Talk about great flavor with garlic, cheese and your favorite toppings.
  • No yeast pizza dough. Just 4 ingredients and only 10 minutes to prep, this dough is a dream on busy nights.
  • Whole wheat pizza dough. I like to make this dough when I am craving something a bit healthier.

Top 3 Pizza Sauces

Every great homemade pizza recipe needs a really great sauce, and these three are definitely my favorites. These are so easy to make and then keep on hand for any pizza emergency. If you are in a hurry, however, you can always opt for a store-bought pizza sauce. Either works great!

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (3)
  • Easy homemade pizza sauce. It only takes 5 minutes and 5 ingredients to make a flavorful and tasty red sauce.
  • Garlic white pizza sauce. This is one of my favorite sauces to use on homemade pizza with chicken.
  • Alfredo sauce. Add this sauce on top with some grilled chicken. Yum!
  • Basil pesto. Add some fresh mozzerella, tomatoes and a balsamic glaze.
  • Vegan pesto. I love a pesto pizza, especially piled high with veggies.

Homemade Pizza Recipes with Meat

It’s hard to beat a classic pepperoni, but I do love a challenge. These meat pizza recipes use chicken, sausage, or bacon to create a new twist on your everyday pie.

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  • BLT pizza. Taking the components of one of my favorite sandwiches and pizza-fying it.
  • Healthy pizza. Say hello to feeling good after eating homemade pizza thanks to veggies, mozzarella, chicken, arugula and a balsamic glaze.
  • Buffalo chicken pizza. Imagine your favorite buffalo wings on a crispy dough. Your next party will thank you.
  • Easy BBQ chicken pizza. Ready in just 30 minutes, this easy pizza recipe only needs BBQ sauce, shredded chicken, mozzarella, red onion and cilantro.
  • Chicken bacon ranch pizza. The homemade ranch sauce replaces the traditional red sauce for amazing results.
  • Chicken alfredo pizza. With a creamy homemade sauce, sliced chicken, bacon and spinach this homemade pizza is indulgent and mouthwatering!
  • Pepperoni pizza. A classic for a reason, everyone also loves this homemade pizza!
  • Sausage breakfast pizza. Pizza for breakfast? Yes, please!

Vegetarian Homemade Pizzas

These vegetarian homemade pizza recipes prove that you don’t need meat to make an amazing pie. In fact, you could skip the meat in some of the pizza recipes mentioned above and still have a dynamite dinner.

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (5)
  • Pizza caprese. This homemade pizza tastes so fresh thanks to the basil pesto, gooey mozzarella, zesty tomatoes, and basil leaves,
  • Spinach artichoke pizza. I pair this with a garlic olive oil as a sauce to let the veggies shine.
  • Spinach pesto pizza. This is my green dream pizza, and it is delightful on a summer night.
  • Veggie pizza. Perfect for a light meal or clowd pleasing appetizer! This cold pizza is a favorite!

Other Types of Pizza Recipes

These are no ordinary homemade pizza recipes. I love all things pizza, but sometimes I want the flavors of a pizza or the style of a pizza without an actual pizza. Enter these non-pizza pizza recipes that capture the flavor or feel of a traditional pie but in a completely different way.

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (6)
  • Pizza dip. Yes, it is a pizza in dip form, and always a major hit at parties.
  • Easy pizza pinwheels. This on-the-go appetizer is ready in just 20 minutes.
  • Stromboli. Take your favorite pizza toppings and roll them into this Italian pinwheel.
  • Pizza chicken roll ups. Stuff chicken breasts with mozzarella cheese, pepperoni and marinara sauce for the ultimate pizza-esque dinner.
  • 15-minute Mexican pizza. An easy pizza recipe that everyone in the family can make their own.
  • Pizookie (pizza cookie). The name says it all. It is so gooey and delicious.
  • Fruit pizza. The soft sugar cookie crust is topped with fresh fruit, making a stunning summer dessert.
  • Halloween Pizzas. Fun miniature sized pizzas decorated for Halloween! The perfect way to start the spooky fun before trick-or-treating!
  • Pizza Pasta Casserole. All the flavors of your favorite pizza in a comforting pasta dish!

FAQs

What order do you put ingredients on a homemade pizza?

The classic arrangement is usually crust, sauce, cheese and then toppings. But who says you can’t mix it up?

What’s the best temperature to bake pizza at?

Pizza should be cooked a high temperature. Usually this is around 450 F degrees but could be as high as 500 F degrees for a standard pizza crust. Check your pizza recipe if you are using a speciality crust as it may differ.

How long does it take to cook pizza at home?

Typically a homemade pizza will cook for 15 – 20 minutes but this could differ depending on the type of pizza or the temperature of your oven. For example at 500 degrees F or above your pizza could be done in 8 minutes.

What’s the most popular type of pizza?

Pepperoni pizza is by far a crowd favorite. Although for kids and vegetarians a cheese pizza is a safe choice. If you are feeding a crowd a few different options are always a great idea.

What cheese is best for homemade pizza?

Mozzarella is the most commonly used cheese on pizza as it melts well without turning lumpy. Provolone and parmesan are two others that may be mixed in with mozzarella for a pizza cheese blend. Feta and aged gouda are tasty but would be considered not as family friendly.

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Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (7)

Homemade Pizza Recipes

5 from 5 votes

↑ Click stars to rate now!

Author: Jamielyn Nye

These homemade pizza recipes start with this homemade pizza dough. Perfect for pizza night with the family!

Prep Time: 40 minutes mins

Cook Time: 20 minutes mins

Total Time: 1 hour hr

Servings: 12 (Makes two 12-inch pizzas)

PrintRatePin

Ingredients

  • 1 cup warm water (110°F)
  • 1 Tablespoon active dry yeast
  • 1 Tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 3 Tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil , divided
  • 1 ½ teaspoons table or fine sea salt
  • 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour , plus more for the counter

Optional toppings

  • mozzarella
  • pepperoni
  • sliced vegetables

Instructions

  • Mix the water, yeast and sugar in a small bowl. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes, or until it starts to foam.

  • Add the yeast mixture, 2 Tablespoons oil and salt in a large bowl. Add 2 cups of flour and knead with a dough hook or by hands until combined. Add 1/4 cup more flour at a time and knead until the dough is smooth, soft, and just a little bit sticky, but not to where the dough still sticks to the bowl. Knead for about 3 to 5 more minutes.

  • Roll the dough into a ball and rub a little oil around the dough.Place in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let rest for 20 to 60 minutes, or until the dough puffs up a bit. It doesn’t need to rise much.

  • Preheat the oven to 450°F. Place flour on the counter. Cut the dough in half and then roll out the dough with a rolling pin or toss until 1/4-inch thick and 12-inches wide.

  • Lightly brush oil onto a pizza stone or large baking sheet. Place dough onto the stone or pizza pan. Spread sauce over the dough and add your favorite toppings.

  • Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

Notes

Storage: Store leftovers in a covered container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer.

Nutrition

Serving: 1slice | Calories: 43kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Fat: 3g | Sodium: 292mg | Potassium: 3mg | Sugar: 3g

Nutrition provided is an estimate. It will vary based on specific ingredients used.

Course: Main Dish

Cuisine: Italian

Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to give it a star rating below!

The Full List of Homemade Pizza Recipes

Click on the links below for all of the delicious homemade pizza recipes mentioned above.

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (8)

Pizza Dough Recipe

This easy homemade pizza dough makes the best pizza crust with only 6 ingredients! Load it up with toppings then bake it until it's nice and crispy on the outside, it's perfect for your next pizza night with the family!

Total Time: 1 hour hour 20 minutes minutes

Read more

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (9)

Homemade Pizza Sauce

Easy homemade pizza sauce made with 5 ingredients in less than 5 minutes! Way more flavorful, inexpensive and delicious than store-bought sauce!

Total Time: 5 minutes minutes

Read more

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (10)

Vegan Pesto

Learn how to make homemadevegan pestowith just a handful of ingredients! So fresh and flavorful, this dairy-free and gluten-free combination tastes amazing with pasta, pizza, sandwiches, and more!

Total Time: 15 minutes minutes

Read more

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (11)

White Pizza Sauce

Super creamy white pizza sauce with the perfect hint of garlic and basil. The best pizza night sauce that's a fun switch from the classic!

Total Time: 30 minutes minutes

Read more

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (12)

Chicken Alfredo Pizza

Pizza night just got better with this indulgent chicken alfredo pizza recipe! Top it with chicken, bacon, and other toppings of your choice for a pizza that will really make your mouth water!

Total Time: 37 minutes minutes

Read more

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (13)

Veggie Pizza

This easy veggie pizza is made on a flaky crescent roll crust with a delicious creamy sauce and veggies on top. This recipe is a go-to appetizer for any gathering!

Total Time: 1 hour hour

Read more

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (14)

Whole Wheat Pizza Dough

This whole wheat pizza dough is soft, chewy and crispy all at the same time. Super easy to whip up and can be made in less than an hour!

Total Time: 55 minutes minutes

Read more

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (15)

No Yeast Pizza Dough Recipe

This no yeast pizza dough will have homemade pizza on your kitchen table in 25 minutes. It takes less than 4 ingredients and only 10 minutes to prep. Perfect for when you need dinner in a pinch!

Total Time: 25 minutes minutes

Read more

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (16)

Sheet Pan Pizza

Sheet pan pizza is a simple and easy way to get dinner done whether you're serving your family or hosting a gathering! With as little effort and fuss as possible, the results are a crispy golden crust that holds up to all your favorite toppings!

Total Time: 25 minutes minutes

Read more

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (17)

French Bread Pizza Recipe

This French bread pizza is simple, delicious and easy to customize with sauce, cheese and your favorite toppings. A tasty recipe that both kids and adults love.

Total Time: 20 minutes minutes

Read more

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (18)

Heart Shaped Pizza

Homemade heart shaped pizza topped with heart shaped pepperoni is an easy recipe perfect to share with loved ones on Valentine's Day!

Total Time: 1 hour hour

Read more

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (19)

BLT Pizza

This BLT pizza is an easy, delicious and family-friendly recipe! All the delicious flavors of a classic bacon, lettuce and tomato sandwich on a warm and toasty pizza crust.

Total Time: 22 minutes minutes

Read more

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (20)

Healthy Pizza

The BEST healthy pizza topped with fresh veggies, mozzarella, chicken, arugula and a balsamic glaze. Ready in just 20 minutes and perfectly crispy and delicious!

Total Time: 20 minutes minutes

Read more

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (21)

Buffalo Chicken Pizza

Make the most deliciousbuffalo chicken pizzafor dinner tonight with as many shortcuts as you need making it even easier! Saucy chicken, blue cheese dressing, and mozzarella topped with blue cheese and extra sauce!

Total Time: 22 minutes minutes

Read more

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (22)

BBQ Chicken Pizza Recipe

This BBQ chicken pizza is topped with BBQ sauce, shredded chicken, mozzarella, red onion and cilantro. It has tons of flavor and is ready in just 30 minutes!

Total Time: 30 minutes minutes

Read more

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (23)

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza

An easy homemade pizza crust smothered in garlic ranch sauce and topped with chicken, bacon, tomatoes and mozzarella cheese.

Total Time: 22 minutes minutes

Read more

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (24)

Sausage Breakfast Pizza

Breakfast pizzais a savory breakfast lover's dream! It's a complete breakfast on your table in under 30 minutes made with easy dough, eggs, sausage, and two kinds of melty cheese!

Total Time: 25 minutes minutes

Read more

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (25)

Pizza Caprese

Pizza Caprese is made with a crispy golden crust topped with basil pesto, gooey mozzarella, zesty tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves. One bite is enough to transport you to an Italian pizzeria!

Total Time: 22 minutes minutes

Read more

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (26)

Spinach Artichoke Pizza

Creamy spinach and artichoke dip meets pizza! Crispy pizza crust topped with a garlic olive oil sauce, fresh mozzarella, Parmesan, sautéed spinach, chopped artichokes and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. This spinach artichoke pizza is the perfect combination!

Total Time: 22 minutes minutes

Read more

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (27)

Pesto Pizza

Spinach pesto pizza with fresh mozzarella – Only 4 ingredients and 10 minutes to make! Flavorful, delicious and full of melted cheese!

Total Time: 10 minutes minutes

Read more

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (28)

Pizza Dip

This pizza dip is always a crowd-pleaser. Simply made with 3 different kinds of cheeses combined with all the delicious flavors of pizza and baked until bubbly. It's an appetizer the whole family will love!

Total Time: 25 minutes minutes

Read more

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (29)

Pizza Pinwheels

Easy pizza pinwheels that are made with fluffy crescent rolls, marinara and all your favorite pizza toppings. The perfect snack or appetizer that's ready in just 20 minutes!

Total Time: 20 minutes minutes

Read more

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (30)

Stromboli Recipe

This homemade stromboli recipe is loaded with cheesy, salami, ham and pepperoni! It's easy to make and will be a family favorite dinner!

Total Time: 30 minutes minutes

Read more

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (31)

Pizza Chicken Roll Ups

These pizza chicken roll ups are stuffed with mozzarella cheese, pepperoni and marinara sauce. A dish the whole family will love!

Total Time: 30 minutes minutes

Read more

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (32)

Mexican Pizza Recipe

Delicious warm tortillas stuffed with refried beans, meat and melty cheese. Add your favorite toppings and there you have it…a yummy Mexican pizza made in just minutes!

Total Time: 15 minutes minutes

Read more

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (33)

Pizookie Recipe

Pizookie – A big, warm chocolate chip cookie pizza that’s topped with ice cream, chocolate chips and hot fudge. Crisp on the outside and gooey on the inside. This cookie skillet is one of our all-time favorite desserts!

Total Time: 30 minutes minutes

Read more

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (34)

Fruit Pizza Recipe

The BEST summer dessert that's topped with fresh fruit, a cream cheese frosting and has a soft sugar cookie crust. Super simple to make and always a hit. You'll absolutely love this easy and colorful fruit pizza!

Total Time: 20 minutes minutes

Read more

Best Homemade Pizza Recipes - I Heart Naptime (2024)
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