Pizza Paparella
A flavorful homemade pizza with a crispy crust, savory tomato sauce, melted mozzarella, and your favorite toppings, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix sugar, yeast, and very warm water.
- Let the yeast bubble to ensure it is active.
- Add flour gradually, stirring between each addition, and add salt between the second and third cups of flour.
- Knead the dough until it is soft but not wet.
- Roll out the dough to your desired thickness and place on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
- Spread tomato sauce evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and oregano over the sauce.
- Add garlic salt to taste.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and your favorite toppings.
- Drizzle with olive oil if desired.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 475°F (245°C) for about 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier crust, try using bread flour instead of all-purpose flour. If you're short on time, store-bought pizza dough can be a great substitute. Experiment with your favorite herbs in the dough or sauce, and don’t hesitate to add some red pepper flakes for a kick! This pizza pairs beautifully with Nonie'S Lasagna for a delightful meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Pizza Paparella with a fresh side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider pairing it with a light Italian wine, like a Chianti, to enhance the flavors. This pizza also makes a great appetizer for any gathering, so feel free to slice it into smaller pieces for sharing.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can use a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to crisp up the crust again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pizza Paparella contains roughly 392 calories, with 12g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (138% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (97% of the Daily Value), and calcium (76% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 573mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but keep in mind that it may create a denser crust. You might need to adjust the water content slightly as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.
How can I make this pizza vegetarian?
This recipe is very versatile! Simply choose your favorite vegetables as toppings, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. You can also add some olives or artichokes for extra flavor to create delicious vegetarian recipes.
What toppings are recommended for this pizza?
Popular toppings include pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, and bell peppers. For a unique twist, try adding fresh basil or arugula after baking. You can customize it to taste and use whatever you have on hand for a personalized touch.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).