# Ingredient List:
→ Pizza Dough
01 - 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 packet (7 g) instant dry yeast
03 - 1 teaspoon sugar
04 - 1 teaspoon salt
05 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
06 - 1 cup warm water (110°F)
→ Cheese Filling
07 - 7 oz mozzarella cheese sticks or block, cut into thin strips
→ Sauce and Toppings
08 - ¾ cup pizza sauce
09 - 7 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
10 - 1.75 oz pepperoni slices
11 - 1 small bell pepper, thinly sliced
12 - 1.75 oz sliced mushrooms
13 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
14 - 1 teaspoon olive oil for brushing crust
# How-to Steps:
01 - Combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Add olive oil and warm water. Mix until a soft, shaggy dough forms and all flour is incorporated.
02 - Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead firmly for 7 minutes, pushing forward with the heel of your hand and folding back, until smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky.
03 - Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel. Let rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1 hour until doubled in bulk.
04 - Preheat oven to 450°F. If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven during preheating for optimal crust results.
05 - Punch down risen dough. Roll out on a floured surface to a 13-inch circle. Transfer to a baking sheet or pizza peel dusted with cornmeal.
06 - Arrange mozzarella strips in a ring along the outer edge of the dough, about 1 inch from the border. Fold the dough edge over the cheese and pinch tightly to seal, pressing firmly to encase the filling completely.
07 - Spread pizza sauce evenly over the center portion, avoiding the stuffed crust edge. Layer with shredded mozzarella, pepperoni, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Sprinkle dried oregano over the top.
08 - Brush the exposed stuffed crust lightly with olive oil. This will promote even browning and a golden, crispy finish.
09 - Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the crust is deeply golden, the cheese is melted and bubbling, and the toppings are cooked through. Rotate halfway through for even baking.
10 - Let pizza rest on a cutting board for 3 to 5 minutes to allow cheese to set. Slice into wedges using a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Serve immediately while hot.
