Little Caesars Cheese Pizza (Copycat Recipe)

This classic cheese pizza recipe captures the essence of Little Caesars with its crispy crust, rich tomato sauce, and a generous layer of gooey mozzarella cheese. Perfect for pizza night, this recipe is straightforward and satisfying, making it a great choice for families and gatherings. It adheres to traditional cooking methods, ensuring a delightful homemade experience.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 cup warm water (110°F)
• 2 1/2 to 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup pizza sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups of flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
3. Mix until a dough forms, adding more flour as needed until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to fit your pizza pan.
7. Transfer the rolled dough to a greased pizza pan. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the crust.
8. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, then add the oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
10. Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, slice, and serve hot.