How to Make New York-Style Pizza at Home (Classic Recipe)
🗽 The Iconic Pizza of New York City
New York-style pizza isn’t just food—it’s part of the city’s identity. Known for its thin, wide slices, slightly crispy edges, and soft center that folds easily, this pizza has become famous around the world.
From late-night street corners to historic pizzerias, NYC pizza is simple, bold, and all about balance.
Read More: Classic American Recipes
🍕 Ingredients (Makes 1 Large Pizza)
Dough
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp instant yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Sauce & Toppings
- ½ cup crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp olive oil
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt (to taste)
- 200g low-moisture mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Fresh basil (optional)
🔥 How to Make New York-Style Pizza
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let rest for 5 minutes.
Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Knead until smooth and elastic.
Cover and let rise for 1–2 hours, until doubled in size.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
Mix crushed tomatoes, olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, and salt.
👉 No cooking needed—NYC sauce is raw and simple.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C) with a pizza stone or baking steel inside.
Stretch the dough gently into a large, thin circle.
Avoid using a rolling pin for authentic texture.
Step 4: Assemble the Pizza
- Spread a thin layer of sauce
- Add mozzarella evenly
- Keep toppings minimal (classic NYC style)
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 8–12 minutes until:
- Crust is lightly charred
- Cheese is bubbling and golden
Remove, rest for 1 minute, then slice.
💡 Pro Tips from NYC Pizzerias
- Use low-moisture mozzarella, not fresh
- Less sauce = better structure
- High heat is essential
- Let dough rest for better stretch
🍽️ How Americans Eat New York Pizza
- Folded in half
- Eaten by hand
- Often paired with soda
- Common as a quick lunch or late-night meal
🧠 Why New York-Style Pizza Is So Popular
It’s fast, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. The thin crust delivers crunch and chew in every bite, making it one of America’s most iconic foods.