The perfect pizza crust – it’s a quest many of us have embarked upon, with varying degrees of success. But what if we told you that achieving crispy, golden-brown perfection wasn’t just a matter of skill and patience? It all comes down to one simple secret: the pizza stone. When cooked on a hot stone, your dough transforms into a crispy masterpiece, with a texture and flavor that’s hard to replicate any other way.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouth-watering pizza stone recipes that will take your culinary game to the next level. From classic margherita pizzas to more adventurous combinations like truffle oil and mushroom flatbread, there’s something for every taste bud. So grab a cold glass of wine (or two), preheat your oven, and get ready to unleash your inner pizzaiolo!
Classic Margherita Pizza on a Stone
Discover the simplicity of Neapolitan-style pizza with this classic Margherita recipe, perfectly cooked to a crispy crust and topped with fresh flavors. This iconic combination is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (0.45 kg) high-protein flour
– 625 ml water
– 10 g active dry yeast
– 20 g salt
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 8 oz (225g) San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
– 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to its highest temperature setting with a baking stone inside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt. Gradually add water while stirring.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. Roll out the dough to your desired thickness (about 1/8 inch or 0.3 cm).
5. Place the dough on a piece of parchment paper or lightly floured pizza peel, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Top with crushed tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil leaves.
7. Slide the parchment paper onto the preheated stone for 10-12 minutes, until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Wood-Fired Style Neapolitan Pizza
Experience the authentic flavor of a traditional Neapolitan pizza cooked in a wood-fired oven, recreated in your own home kitchen. This recipe yields a crispy crust, sweet tomato sauce, and melty mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) Caputo or similar “00” flour
– 62°F (17°C) water
– 1 tsp active dry yeast
– 1 tsp salt
– 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– 12 oz (340g) San Marzano tomato sauce
– 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Combine flour, yeast, and salt in a mixing bowl.
2. Gradually add water while kneading until a smooth dough forms.
3. Rest the dough for 24 hours at room temperature or 12 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Preheat your oven to its highest setting (usually around 550°F/290°C) with a baking steel or stone inside.
5. Roll out the dough to desired thickness and place on parchment paper.
6. Spread tomato sauce, leaving a 1/2 inch border around edges.
7. Top with mozzarella cheese and basil leaves.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and cheese melted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic and Herb Focaccia Bread
Fresh from the oven, this garlic and herb focaccia bread is perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups and salads. With its crispy crust and soft interior, it’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, garlic, rosemary, and thyme to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add flour to the bowl, mixing until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a rectangle.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thin Crust Pepperoni Pizza
A simple and flavorful recipe that yields a crispy thin crust topped with savory pepperoni slices, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 8-10 pepperoni slices
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add remaining cup of flour, kneading until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out dough into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch thick).
5. Place pepperoni slices on one half of the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
6. Fold the other half over to form a triangle or rectangle; press edges to seal.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and pepperoni is crispy.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Charred Veggie Flatbread
This Charred Veggie Flatbread recipe combines the smoky flavors of roasted vegetables with the warmth and crunch of a crispy flatbread. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of flatbread dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: crumbled feta cheese or chopped fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the flatbread dough to your desired thickness.
3. Brush the flatbread with olive oil, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Arrange the bell pepper and onion slices on one half of the flatbread, drizzling with any remaining olive oil.
5. Fold the other half of the flatbread over the vegetables to form a half-moon shape.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Sourdough Pizza
Get ready to elevate your pizza game with this simple and delicious homemade sourdough pizza recipe! With a tangy sourdough crust and a flavorful topping combination, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
– 2 cups bread flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Toppings of your choice (e.g. tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, bell peppers, onions)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter, bread flour, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise at room temperature for 2-3 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough and shape into your desired pizza crust shape.
6. Top with your favorite toppings and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and toppings are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Chicken Stone-Baked Pizza
Elevate your pizza game with this unique BBQ chicken stone-baked pizza recipe, featuring tangy BBQ sauce and crispy chicken. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. In a separate pan, cook chicken until browned and cooked through.
4. Top pizza dough with BBQ sauce, chicken, bell pepper, onion, garlic, and mozzarella cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Four Cheese Stone Oven Pizza
Experience the perfect blend of creamy cheeses on a crispy stone-oven baked crust with this recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat stone oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with feta, Parmesan, and ricotta cheese in that order.
5. Sprinkle oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato Pizza
Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato Pizza Recipe
Create a flavorful and visually appealing pizza with the perfect blend of creamy pesto, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
3. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out the dough into a circle or rectangle shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
6. Spread pesto sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. Top with sun-dried tomatoes and mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
9. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Flatbread
This recipe combines the sweet and savory flavors of caramelized onions with the creaminess of goat cheese on a crispy flatbread crust. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, this flavorful flatbread is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup caramelized onions (see note)
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– Fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. Spread the caramelized onions over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Top with crumbled goat cheese and sprinkle with chopped thyme (if using).
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Note: To caramelize onions, cook sliced onions in a skillet with olive oil over low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are deep golden brown and sweet.
Spicy Sausage and Jalapeño Pizza
This spicy pizza combines the savory flavor of sausage with the bold heat of jalapeños, making it a unique and delicious twist on traditional pizza. Perfect for those who like a little kick in their meals!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large jalapeños, sliced
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Cook sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Spread cooked sausage evenly over pizza crust.
5. Top with sliced jalapeños and mozzarella cheese.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Artisan Rosemary and Sea Salt Bread
This recipe yields a crusty, flavorful bread with a subtle hint of rosemary and the perfect balance of saltiness. Perfect for serving alongside soups or stews, or simply enjoying on its own.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
– 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. Add olive oil, sea salt, and 2 cups of flour to the mixture. Mix until shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add remaining 2 cups of flour, kneading the dough for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Fold in chopped rosemary and coarse sea salt.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the bread for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Buffalo Mozzarella and Basil Pizza
A classic Italian-inspired pizza that combines the creaminess of buffalo mozzarella with the brightness of fresh basil leaves.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-baked pizza crust (or homemade dough)
– 8 oz buffalo mozzarella, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: cherry tomatoes, prosciutto, or arugula
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza crust to desired thickness.
3. Arrange sliced mozzarella cheese on the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves evenly over the mozzarella.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the pizza, making sure not to overpower the other flavors.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tips:
– Use high-quality buffalo mozzarella for the best flavor.
– Don’t overdo it on the basil – you want a subtle hint of freshness, not overpowering the pizza.
– Feel free to add your favorite toppings to make this pizza your own!
Stone-Baked Garlic Knots
A flavorful twist on traditional garlic knots, these stone-baked treats are perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add olive oil, garlic, and salt to the mixture. Mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, until a dough forms.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes.
6. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a knot shape.
7. Place knots onto a baking stone or sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each knot.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Prosciutto and Arugula Pizza
Elevate your pizza game with this simple yet elegant recipe that combines the sweetness of caramelized onions, the saltiness of prosciutto, and the peppery flavor of arugula.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup caramelized onions (see note)
– 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
2. Spread the caramelized onions over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Arrange the prosciutto slices on top of the onions.
4. Sprinkle the arugula leaves and mozzarella cheese evenly over the pizza.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Note: To caramelize onions, cook 1 large onion in a pan with 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn dark golden brown.
Truffle Oil and Mushroom Flatbread
This recipe combines the earthy flavors of sautéed mushrooms with the luxurious richness of truffle oil on a crispy flatbread crust. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, this unique combination is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 tablespoons truffle oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Gradually add warm water and mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, then let it rest for 10 minutes. Roll out to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm).
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Brush the flatbread with truffle oil, then top with sautéed mushrooms and sprinkle with parsley.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Deep Dish Style Pizza on a Stone
Get ready for a game-changing pizza experience with this recipe that combines the classic deep dish flavors with the convenience of cooking on a stone. This hearty pie is perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup deep dish pizza sauce
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– Toppings of your choice (e.g., pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a pizza stone in the oven for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy.
3. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm).
5. Transfer the dough to a piece of parchment paper or a lightly floured pizza peel.
6. Spread the deep dish pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
7. Top with mozzarella cheese and your desired toppings.
8. Place the pizza on the preheated stone and bake for 20-25 minutes until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Olive Focaccia
Roasted Garlic and Olive Focaccia Recipe
Summary:
Elevate your snack game with this savory Roasted Garlic and Olive Focaccia, perfect for a quick bite or as a base for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 cloves roasted garlic, mashed
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– Coarse sea salt and fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, olive oil, warm water, yeast, and salt.
3. Mix until dough forms; knead for 5-7 minutes.
4. Place dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spread mashed roasted garlic over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
6. Top with sliced green olives.
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Garnish with coarse sea salt and fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!
Summary
Get ready to elevate your pizza game with these 18 crispy pizza stone recipes! From classic Margherita to BBQ chicken, and from thin crust pepperoni to deep dish style, there’s a recipe here for every taste. Try making a wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizza, or opt for something more unique like truffle oil and mushroom flatbread. Whether you’re in the mood for a garlic and herb focaccia or a spicy sausage and jalapeño pizza, these recipes will guide you to perfect crusts every time.
