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New Haven Pizza Recipe

New Haven Pizza Recipe: 3 Ways to Achieve That Famous Thin Crust

Learn how to make authentic New Haven-style pizza at home with this easy recipe. Discover three foolproof methods to achieve the iconic thin, crispy crust that makes this pizza a legend. Perfect for pizza lovers and home cooks alike!
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Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Main Course, Pizza
Cuisine American, Italian-Inspired
Servings 4 people
Calories 1800 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ½ cups Bread flour High-protein flour works best for the crust.
  • 1 tsp Salt Enhances the dough's flavor.
  • 1 tsp Sugar Helps activate the yeast.
  • 1 tsp Instant yeast For a quick and easy dough rise.
  • ¾ cup Warm water Around 110°F (43°C) for optimal yeast activation.
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil Adds richness to the dough.
  • 1 cup Tomato sauce Use a simple, uncooked sauce for authenticity.
  • 2 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese Freshly shredded melts better.
  • To taste - Toppings (optional) Pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, etc.

Instructions
 

1. Prepare the Dough

  • In a large bowl, mix 2 ½ cups bread flour, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp sugar, and 1 tsp instant yeast.
  • Gradually add ¾ cup warm water and 1 tbsp olive oil, mixing until a dough forms.
  • Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour.

2. Preheat and Prepare

  • Preheat your oven to its highest setting (500°F/260°C or higher) with a pizza stone or baking sheet inside.
  • Divide the dough into two portions and roll each into a thin, 12-inch circle.

3. Assemble the Pizza

  • Spread a thin layer of 1 cup tomato sauce over the dough.
  • Sprinkle 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese evenly, then add your desired toppings (e.g., pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms).

4. Bake

  • Carefully transfer the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet.
  • Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy.

5. Serve

  • Remove from the oven, slice, and serve immediately.

Notes

  1. Dough Tips:
    • For a chewier crust, use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour.
    • If you have time, let the dough rest in the fridge overnight for enhanced flavor.
  2. Sauce Simplicity:
    • New Haven-style pizza traditionally uses a simple, uncooked tomato sauce. Blend canned tomatoes with a pinch of salt and a drizzle of olive oil for authenticity.
  3. Oven Temperature:
    • The hotter the oven, the better! Preheat your oven to its highest setting (500°F/260°C or higher) for a crispy, charred crust.
  4. Toppings:
    • Keep toppings minimal to let the crust shine. Classic options include pepperoni, sausage, or just cheese.
  5. Pizza Stone Alternative:
    • If you don’t have a pizza stone, use an inverted baking sheet preheated in the oven.
  6. Storage:
    • Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot oven or skillet for best results.
  7. Make-Ahead Dough:
    • Prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before rolling.
Keyword Easy Pizza Recipe, Homemade Pizza, New Haven Pizza, Thin Crust Pizza