Perfect Homemade Pizza in 30 Seconds: Pro Tips from Anthony

Craving pizza but tired of takeout? Skip the delivery app—let's make pizzeria-worthy pies right in your own kitchen. Making pizza at home is a game changer, and trust me, the process is so much simpler (and a lot more fun) than it seems.

The foundation of your pizza is always the dough. Start with dough at room temperature—it’s more forgiving to work with. Gently stretch it with the backs of your hands, not a rolling pin, aiming for an even round with a beautiful, puffy edge for that irresistible crust.

Next comes the sauce—this is where flavor builds. Spoon tomato sauce right into the center, then use the back of the spoon to spiral it outward, keeping a half-inch border untouched for the crust to shine.

Cheese and toppings are all about strategy. Begin with a blanket of mozzarella (don’t go light here), and then add your favorite toppings. Here’s the pro secret: restraint. Pile on too much, and your pizza gets soggy, no matter how hot your oven is.

Speaking of ovens, heat is your best friend. Crank it as high as it goes—at least 475°F—and preheat a pizza stone or baking sheet if you have one. Slide in your masterpiece and keep an eye out: when the cheese is bubbling and the crust is gorgeously golden (about 8 to 10 minutes), you have something truly special.

Take it out, slice it up, and take that first bite. Whether it’s for a weeknight treat or a celebration, there’s nothing quite like pizza, made by you. You’ll never look at store-bought the same way.