Easy Cheese Pizza with Homemade Marinara Sauce

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If you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying meal, this Easy Cheese Pizza with Homemade Marinara Sauce is the perfect choice. Not only is it a fun activity to make with the family, but the combination of gooey mozzarella on a crispy crust paired with a rich, tangy marinara sauce is simply irresistible. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create a pizza that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This easy cheese pizza is all about simplicity and flavor. With a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a delicious homemade meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, you can customize it to suit your family’s tastes!

• Quick and easy to prepare
• Perfect for family pizza night
• Fresh, homemade marinara sauce
• Customizable with your favorite toppings
• Fun for kids and adults alike

Ingredients

• 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 batch homemade marinara sauce (see below)

How to Make Cheese Pizza with Homemade Sauce

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up as well.
2. Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness, typically about 12 inches in diameter for a standard pizza. Transfer it to a pizza peel or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Brush the surface of the dough with olive oil, and sprinkle the dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper evenly over the top.
4. Spread a generous layer of homemade marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.
5. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, ensuring even coverage for that cheesy goodness.
6. If using a pizza stone, carefully slide the pizza onto the stone. If using a baking sheet, just place it directly in the oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
7. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Tips for the Best Results

• For a crispier crust, bake the pizza on a preheated pizza stone.
• Don’t overload your pizza with toppings; keep it simple to ensure even cooking.
• Allow the dough to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling it out for easier handling.
• Experiment with fresh herbs or additional spices in the marinara sauce for added flavor.

Easy Variations

• Add pepperoni, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a classic topping combination.
• Try a white pizza by omitting the marinara sauce and using ricotta cheese as a base.
• Use different cheeses like provolone or parmesan for a unique flavor twist.
• Top with fresh basil or arugula after baking for a fresh taste.

What to Serve With It

• A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette
• Garlic breadsticks for extra munching
• A side of roasted vegetables
• A refreshing fruit salad

Storage and Reheating

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Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use a skillet on the stovetop to re-crisp the crust.

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