🍕 Authentic Sicilian Pizza Recipe: A Thick-Crust Slice of Italian Heaven
If you’re a lover of bold, rustic, deeply satisfying pizza, let me introduce you to your new obsession: Sicilian pizza. This isn’t your average thin-crust slice. Oh no. This is a thick, fluffy, golden-edged square of doughy goodness topped with a vibrant tomato sauce and a generous sprinkle of cheese. It’s comfort food, Italian-style.
I’ve been making this Sicilian pizza recipe at home for years, after falling in love with the version my Nonna used to make every Sunday. Over time, I’ve tweaked and tested until I landed on a version that’s easy, authentic, and insanely delicious. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this pizza delivers.
In this post, I’ll walk you through every step, from dough to toppings, and share pro tips to make sure your pizza turns out perfectly golden and mouthwatering.
🧲 Ingredients for Homemade Sicilian Pizza
✨ Dough:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 4 cups (500g) |
| Warm water (110°F) | 1 1/3 cups (320ml) |
| Active dry yeast | 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) |
| Sugar | 1 tbsp |
| Olive oil | 1/4 cup (60ml) |
| Salt | 2 tsp |
✨ Toppings:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Crushed San Marzano tomatoes | 1 can (14 oz/400g) |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Dried oregano | 1 tsp |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
| Mozzarella cheese | 2 cups (shredded) |
| Pecorino Romano (optional) | 1/2 cup (grated) |
| Olive oil | Drizzle |
| Fresh basil (optional) | A few leaves |
❤️ Step-by-Step: How to Make Sicilian Pizza at Home
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–7 minutes until foamy.
- Add olive oil and salt. Gradually add flour while mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead for 8–10 minutes on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
- Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1.5 to 2 hours, until doubled.
Pro Tip: For an extra-flavorful dough, let it rise slowly in the fridge overnight.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In a small saucepan, heat a drizzle of olive oil.
- Add garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15–20 minutes. Let cool slightly.
Step 3: Stretch the Dough
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking sheet or Sicilian pizza pan generously with olive oil.
- Press the dough into the pan, stretching gently to the edges.
- Let it rest for 15 minutes, then press again if it springs back.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C).
- Spread the sauce evenly over the dough.
- Top with mozzarella and Pecorino Romano.
- Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the bottom is crisp and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
🪡 Tips & Tricks for the Best Sicilian Pizza
- Use good tomatoes. San Marzano or a high-quality Italian brand makes all the difference.
- Olive oil is key. Don’t skip the generous drizzle in the pan — it helps crisp the bottom.
- Cheese matters. Blend mozzarella with Pecorino or Parmigiano for a richer flavor.
- Let the dough rest. Don’t rush the rise or the pan stretching. Patience = pillowy crust.
🫣 Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought dough? Yes! While homemade is best, high-quality store dough works in a pinch. Let it come to room temp before using.
What makes Sicilian pizza different? The thick, focaccia-like crust and rectangular shape. It’s baked in a pan with olive oil, which crisps the bottom.
Can I make it ahead? Absolutely. Bake, cool, and refrigerate. Reheat at 375°F (190°C) until warm and crisp.
Can I freeze it? Yes. Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen for best results.
🌟 Final Thoughts: A Pizza That Hits Different
This Sicilian pizza recipe is more than just a meal — it’s a whole experience. The aroma as it bakes, the crunch of the bottom, the gooey cheese pull, the punchy tomato sauce… it hits every craving.
Once you make it, you’ll understand why this style of pizza has a cult following. Whether you keep it classic or play with toppings (anchovies, anyone?), it’s the kind of dish that feels like home.
See Also: Best Pizza Bagel Recipe – Quick, Cheesy & Ready in Minutes! 🍕🔥
