14 Inch Pizza Recipe: Crispy, Cheesy, and Easy

Make a restaurant-quality pizza at home with this foolproof recipe!

If you’ve ever struggled with soggy crusts or unevenly melted cheese, don’t worry—you’re not alone. The secret? A few simple techniques that make all the difference. You’ll learn how to make the perfect dough, balance your toppings, and bake at the ideal temperature for that crispy, golden finish.

There’s nothing quite like a homemade 14 inch pizza—crispy crust, gooey cheese, and toppings just the way you like them. Whether you’re a die-hard pepperoni fan or love a veggie-loaded pie, this recipe guarantees pizzeria-level results in your own kitchen.

This guide is for home cooks, busy families, and pizza lovers alike. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, you’ll have a foolproof method for making a delicious 14-inch pizza from scratch—no fancy equipment required. Let’s get baking!

Ingredient Breakdown

For the Dough (Makes 1 x 14-Inch Pizza)

• 2 ¼ cups (280g) all-purpose flour (or bread flour for a chewier crust)
• ¾ cup (180ml) warm water (about 110°F)
• 1 ½ tsp active dry yeast (or 1 tsp instant yeast)
• 1 tsp sugar (boosts yeast activation)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for greasing)

For the Sauce

• 1 cup (240ml) canned crushed tomatoes (San Marzano for richer flavor)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried basil
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Cheese & Toppings

• 1 ½ cups (150g) shredded mozzarella cheese (whole milk for best melt)
• ¼ cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional toppings: pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, onions, sausage

Optional Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Extra Parmesan for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a small bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be expired.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Create a small well in the center.
3. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a rough dough forms.
4. Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl. Cover with a clean towel and let rise for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, salt, oregano, and basil. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Let the sauce cool slightly before spreading it onto the pizza.

Step 3: Shape the Dough

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air bubbles.
2. Transfer it to a floured surface and stretch it into a 14-inch circle. You can use a rolling pin, but hand-stretching preserves more air pockets for a lighter crust.
3. Place the stretched dough onto a pizza stone, baking sheet, or perforated pizza pan. If using a baking sheet, dust it with cornmeal to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Pre-Bake the Crust (Optional but recommended for a crispier base)

1. Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C). Let it heat for at least 30 minutes for even baking.
2. If using a pizza stone, place it inside the oven during preheating.
3. Bake the plain dough for 5 minutes before adding toppings. This prevents a soggy crust.

Step 5: Assemble the Pizza

1. Spread a thin, even layer of sauce over the crust, leaving about ½ inch around the edges.
2. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly, followed by Parmesan. Avoid overloading the cheese, as it may weigh down the crust.
3. Add your favorite toppings, keeping them evenly distributed for balanced flavors.

Step 6: Bake the Pizza

1. Transfer the pizza to the preheated oven. Bake at 500°F (260°C) for 8–12 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the crust is golden brown.
2. If using a pizza stone, slide the pizza directly onto it for an extra crispy bottom.

Step 7: Slice & Serve

1. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it rest for 2 minutes before slicing. This helps set the cheese.
2. Garnish with fresh basil, red pepper flakes, or extra Parmesan if desired.
3. Slice into 8 pieces and enjoy!

This method guarantees a perfectly baked 14-inch pizza with a crisp crust, gooey cheese, and bold flavors.

Nutrition Facts

A 14 inch pizza offers a satisfying balance of carbs, protein, and fat. The exact nutrition depends on toppings and crust type, but here’s an estimate for a classic cheese pizza (8 slices):

For healthier variations, consider using whole wheat crust, light cheese, or lean protein toppings like grilled chicken. If following a keto or gluten-free diet, swap regular dough for almond flour crust or a cauliflower base.

Pro Tips / Variations

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Too Much Topping: Overloading the pizza can make the crust soggy and unevenly cooked. Stick to 3–4 toppings max for best results.
• Skipping Preheating: A hot oven (500°F or higher) is essential for a crispy crust. If using a pizza stone, let it preheat for at least 30 minutes.
• Using Cold Dough: Room-temperature dough stretches more easily and bakes evenly. Let it sit for 30 minutes after refrigeration.

Quick Hacks for Busy Cooks

• Use Store-Bought Dough: If short on time, grab pre-made pizza dough from the grocery store and focus on fresh toppings.
• Pre-Make the Sauce: Pizza sauce lasts up to a week in the fridge or 3 months frozen. Make a batch ahead of time!
• Try a Cast-Iron Skillet: For an ultra-crispy bottom, bake the pizza in a cast-iron skillet instead of a baking sheet.

Flavor Variations & Dietary Swaps

• Thin Crust Lovers: Reduce dough to 1 ¾ cups flour and roll it extra thin before baking.
• Cheese-Stuffed Crust: Before sealing the edges, tuck string cheese or shredded mozzarella into the dough’s perimeter.
• Vegan Version: Replace cheese with cashew-based mozzarella and use roasted veggies for toppings.
• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle hot honey over the pizza just before serving.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Best Side Dishes

A 14 inch pizza pairs well with light, refreshing sides to balance its richness. Some great options include:

• Garlic Knots – Buttery, pull-apart bites for extra carb satisfaction.
• Classic Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine, parmesan, and homemade dressing complement cheesy pizza.
• Roasted Veggies – A tray of zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus adds nutrition without extra carbs.

Leftover Ideas

If you have leftover slices, try reheating them in a skillet instead of a microwave for a crispier bite. You can also:

• Make a Pizza Sandwich: Fold a slice in half with extra toppings inside and grill it.
• Pizza Scramble: Chop leftovers and mix them into scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast.
• Air Fryer Revival: Reheat at 350°F for 4–5 minutes to restore crispiness.

Perfect Drinks to Pair

The right beverage elevates your pizza experience. Consider these pairings:

•  Sparkling Water with Citrus
•  Iced Herbal Tea (e.g., Mint, Hibiscus, or Chamomile)
• Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Cider
•  Ginger Beer
•  Non-Alcoholic Wine or Grape Juice
•  Lemonade or Limeade
•  Coconut Water
•  Non-Alcoholic Craft Sodas (e.g., Root Beer, Ginger Ale, or Artisanal Flavors)
•  Matcha Latte (Iced or Hot)
•  Chai Latte (Iced or Hot)
•  Non-Alcoholic Beer.

With the right sides and drinks, your 14 inch pizza meal becomes a restaurant-worthy feast!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Making a 14 inch pizza at home is easier than you think, and the results are far better than takeout. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

• Easy and Foolproof: No need for special equipment—just a baking sheet or pizza stone.
• Crispy Yet Chewy Crust: The dough method ensures a crisp bottom with a light, airy interior.
• Customizable for Any Diet: Swap ingredients to make it vegan, gluten-free, or high-protein.
• Better Than Delivery: Fresh ingredients, balanced flavors, and a perfect cheese pull every time.
• Quick to Make: With a little planning, you can have pizza ready in under an hour.

If you love a good slice of pizza, this recipe will become a go-to for weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, or whenever cravings strike.

FAQ

How big is a 14 inch pizza?

A 14 inch pizza has a diameter of 14 inches and an area of 154 square inches. It’s larger than a 12-inch pizza and typically serves 2–4 people, depending on appetite. The size makes it ideal for sharing without being too overwhelming.

Is a 14 inch pizza enough for 2 people?

Yes, a 14-inch pizza is usually enough for 2 people with large appetites or 3–4 people if paired with side dishes. Since most pizzas are cut into 8 slices, each person can comfortably have 2–4 slices, depending on hunger levels.

How big is a New Yorker pizza?

A New Yorker pizza is typically 16 to 18 inches in diameter, making it significantly larger than a 14 inch pizza. It is known for its thin, foldable crust and oversized slices, designed to be eaten on the go. Some New York-style pizzerias even serve 20-inch pizzas.

How many people does a 14 inch pan pizza feed?

A 14 inch pan pizza, which has a thicker, doughier crust, is more filling than a thin-crust pizza. It can comfortably serve 3–5 people, depending on slice size and additional side dishes. Since deep-dish and pan-style pizzas are heavier, even smaller portions can be satisfying.

If you love experimenting with pizza flavors, consider trying something unique like a pickle pizza. The combination of tangy pickles and creamy cheese might sound unusual, but it’s surprisingly delicious! For a creative twist, check out this Pickle Pie Pizza Recipe and see how you can incorporate bold flavors into your homemade pies.

Additionally, perfecting your 14 inch pizza starts with mastering the dough. A well-fermented dough enhances both texture and flavor, giving you that crispy-yet-chewy bite. If you want expert tips on kneading and proofing, this [dough-making guide](External Source) offers step-by-step insights from professional bakers. And when it comes to cheese selection, not all varieties melt the same way—some create a better stretch, while others add richness. To pick the best cheese for your pizza, check out this [cheese selection guide](External Source) and discover which blends work best for your homemade masterpiece.

This ensures your homemade 14 inch pizza is not only delicious but also crafted with the best ingredients and techniques!

A 14 inch pizza is the perfect size for a homemade pizza night, offering just the right balance between crispy crust, gooey cheese, and flavorful toppings. Whether you prefer a classic Margherita, a meat-lover’s feast, or a veggie-loaded pie, this recipe ensures a perfectly baked pizza every time.

Now that you have the tools to make a delicious, restaurant-quality pizza, it’s time to roll out the dough and get baking! Have a favorite topping combination? Let us know—we’d love to hear how your pizza turned out!