Ingredients:

  • 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
  • 1 tablespoon (12g) sugar
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
  • 1 cup (240ml) warm water (110°F/43°C)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet, 7g) active dry yeast
  • 2 cups (225g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup (240ml) marinara or pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 pound (225g) Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
  • 1/2 cup (75g) sliced bell peppers
  • 1/2 cup (75g) sliced mushrooms
  • 1/4 cup (15g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon (5g) Italian seasoning
  • Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let it sit until frothy (about 5 minutes).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk flour, salt, and sugar.
  3. Add oil and yeast mixture to the flour, and mix until a dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth (about 5-7 minutes).
  5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise for 1 hour.
  6. In a saucepan, heat marinara sauce and stir in Italian seasoning; set aside.
  7. Cook the Italian sausage in a skillet until browned, then crumble; set aside.
  8. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  9. Roll out the dough to fit the pan
  10. Place the rolled dough in the greased pizza pan, pressing it into the corners.
  11. Layer half the mozzarella cheese on the bottom of the crust.
  12. Add cooked sausage, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
  13. Pour marinara sauce over the filling, then top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  14. Bake in preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
  15. Allow to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing.