Proper Pepperoni Pizza

A freshly baked proper pepperoni pizza topped with mushrooms, black olives, and plenty of gooey cheese is the ultimate comfort food. The crispy yet chewy crust holds a rich tomato base, while the toppings create a balance of smoky, earthy, and briny flavours. Perfect for sharing, this homemade pizza brings warmth and satisfaction to any table.

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 15

Rising 1

Total Time 1 35

Servings People

Ingredients

250 g bread flour strong
½ tsp salt
½ tsp sugar
1 tsp dried yeast
150 ml warm water
1 tbsp olive oil
150 ml pizza sauce
150 g mozzarella cheese grated
75 g pepperoni slices
75 g mushrooms sliced
50 g black olives sliced
1 tsp dried oregano optional

Instructions

In a bowl, mix flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
250 g bread flour, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp sugar, 1 tsp dried yeast
Gradually add warm water and olive oil, bringing it together into a dough.
150 ml warm water, 1 tbsp olive oil
Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth.
Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and leave to rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Preheat oven to 220°C (200°C fan). Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a large round base and place on a baking tray or pizza stone.
Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the base, leaving a small border.
150 ml pizza sauce
Sprinkle with half the mozzarella.
150 g mozzarella cheese
Add pepperoni, mushrooms, and olives.
75 g pepperoni, 75 g mushrooms, 50 g black olives
Top with the remaining cheese and a pinch of oregano if desired.
150 g mozzarella cheese, 1 tsp dried oregano
Bake for 12–15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and melted.
Slice your proper pepperoni pizza and serve hot.

Notes

Depending on whether you want to go bold, balanced, or a bit more adventurous, here are some toppings that pair beautifully with pepperoni:

Classic Pairings for a Proper Pepperoni Pizza:

Onions (red or white): Sweet when cooked, they balance the spice of the pepperoni.
Bell Peppers: Add sweetness, crunch, and a pop of colour.
Extra Cheese (cheddar, provolone, or parmesan): Doubles down on the indulgence.

Meaty Additions toa Proper Pepperoni Pizza:

Sausage (Italian or spicy): Brings a deeper, herby flavour.
Ham or Bacon: Smoky and salty, working in harmony with pepperoni.
Chicken (grilled or BBQ): A leaner meat that still complements the richness.

Veggie Options to a Proper Pepperoni Pizza:

Spinach: Adds a touch of freshness and colour.
Jalapeños or Chillies: For heat-lovers, they enhance the spice kick.
Pineapple: Controversial but beloved by many—it gives a sweet contrast to the salty pepperoni.
Sweetcorn: Adds little bursts of sweetness.

Gourmet Touches to a Proper Pepperoni Pizza:

Goat’s Cheese or Blue Cheese: Adds tang and creaminess.
Artichokes: A Mediterranean flair with a slightly nutty, tangy note.
Sun-dried Tomatoes: Intensifies the tomato flavour with sweetness.
Fresh Basil or Rocket (added after baking): Fresh, peppery leaves that lift the whole pizza.

Nutrition