Sbarro's Cheese Pizza (Copycat Recipe)

This classic cheese pizza recipe captures the essence of Sbarro's famous pizza, featuring a crispy crust, rich tomato sauce, and a generous layer of gooey mozzarella cheese. It's a delightful combination of flavors and textures that brings the taste of New York-style pizza right to your kitchen. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe is straightforward and meets the needs of cheese lovers everywhere.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine the yeast, sugar, and warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
3. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. While the dough is rising, prepare the pizza sauce by combining crushed tomatoes, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and sugar in a saucepan. Simmer for 20 minutes.
6. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
7. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
8. Transfer the rolled-out dough to a pizza peel or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Spread a layer of the prepared tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
10. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
11. If using a pizza stone, carefully transfer the pizza onto the stone. Otherwise, place the baking sheet in the oven.
12. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
13. Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Slice and serve hot.