Easy Homemade Pizza Squares

Ingredients:

• For the Pizza Crust:
  
  • 1 package (or about 2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
• For the Pizza Sauce:
  
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Toppings:
  
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: pepperoni, sausage, veggies, or any other favorite pizza toppings

Instructions:

Step 1: Make the Pizza Dough

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, olive oil, and salt. Pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture and stir until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Pizza Sauce

1. In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the tomato sauce, garlic powder, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld together. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza Squares

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Punch down the dough and divide it in half. Roll out one half to fit a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized pan.
3. Press the dough into the pan, ensuring it covers the bottom evenly.
4. Spread a thin layer of the prepared pizza sauce over the dough.
5. Sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
6. Add any extra toppings (pepperoni, sausage, veggies, etc.) if desired.
7. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake the pizza for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden brown.
2. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing it into squares.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Tips:

• You can also make the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight for a deeper flavor.
• If you’re short on time, store-bought pizza dough and sauce work just as well for this recipe.

This Easy Homemade Pizza Squares are perfect for a family dinner! The combination of a simple homemade crust, flavorful sauce, and gooey cheese makes for a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal.