Mini Pizzas with Homemade Dough and Sauce

Instructions: How to Make Mini Pizzas from Scratch

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir lightly and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes foamy. This means the yeast is activated and ready to use.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is ready, pour it into the flour mixture along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Stir everything together until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Form it into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

While the dough is rising, prepare the pizza sauce. In a saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the crushed tomatoes, garlic powder, oregano, basil, and sugar (if using). Stir everything together and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it heats up for that extra crispy crust. If not, a regular baking sheet will work just fine.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it out into a large rectangle or divide it into smaller portions, depending on how mini you want your pizzas. You should aim for about 6-8 small pizza bases. Roll each piece out to about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 5: Assemble the Mini Pizzas

Place the pizza dough rounds onto a lightly greased baking sheet or pizza stone. Spread a thin layer of the homemade pizza sauce over each base, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, then add any additional toppings of your choice—whether that’s classic pepperoni, sautéed mushrooms, sliced bell peppers, or even a little bit of bacon.

Step 6: Bake the Mini Pizzas

Bake the mini pizzas in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is golden brown. If you prefer a crispier crust, you can bake them for a few extra minutes, keeping an eye on them so they don’t burn.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the pizzas are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two before slicing. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces, like garlic butter or ranch dressing.

Tips for Perfect Mini Pizzas

• Get Creative with Toppings: One of the best parts of making mini pizzas is the ability to customize each one. Set up a pizza bar with a variety of toppings and let everyone make their own creation. From veggies to meats, the possibilities are endless.
• Use Fresh Mozzarella: For an even richer flavor, use fresh mozzarella cheese instead of the pre-shredded kind. It melts beautifully and adds a creamier texture.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough and sauce ahead of time. Store the dough in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze it for later use. You can also store the sauce in an airtight container for up to a week.
• Gluten-Free Version: For a gluten-free alternative, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free pizza dough mix. You can find pre-made gluten-free dough in stores, or use a recipe that suits your dietary needs.
• Crispier Crust: If you love a crispy crust, preheat your baking sheet or pizza stone in the oven before placing the dough on it. This will help the bottom cook faster and become golden brown.

Why These Mini Pizzas Are Perfect for Any Occasion

• Fun for All Ages: Mini pizzas are great for kids and adults alike. Everyone loves creating their own personalized pizza, and they’re a fun activity for family nights or gatherings with friends.
• Ideal for Parties: These mini pizzas are perfect for serving at parties or get-togethers. They’re easy to handle, and you can make a variety of different flavors, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
• Quick and Easy: Despite making everything from scratch, these mini pizzas are quick to prepare and bake. The dough rises in just an hour, and the pizzas only take about 10-12 minutes in the oven.
• Portable and Versatile: These mini pizzas are portable, making them great for picnics, outdoor gatherings, or even packed lunches.

Conclusion: A Fun, Flavorful Twist on Pizza Night

Making Mini Pizzas with Homemade Dough and Sauce is an easy and enjoyable way to elevate your pizza night. Whether you’re preparing them for your family or hosting a party, these bite-sized pizzas offer endless customization options and a deliciously fresh taste. With homemade dough and sauce, you’ll never look at store-bought pizza the same way again. So, gather your ingredients, get creative with toppings, and enjoy these delightful mini pizzas—your taste buds will thank you!