Crafting a Budget-Friendly Sicilian Pizza for $2 or Less

Discover how to create a massive, delicious Sicilian-style pizza without breaking the bank. This recipe delivers on flavor, size, and cost-effectiveness, making it a perfect choice for any pizza enthusiast looking to save some dough.

Key Takeaway:

Learn to make a hearty Sicilian pizza that costs as little as $2 per slice, proving that homemade pizza can be both affordable and satisfying.

---

The Cost-Effective Sicilian Pizza Recipe

Pizza is a beloved indulgence, but it doesn’t have to come at a premium price. This Sicilian-style pizza recipe ensures you get the most out of your ingredients without compromising on taste.

Ingredients:

• Pizza Dough:
• 900g bread flour
• 100g whole wheat flour
• 8g instant yeast
• 780g warm water (95-100°F / 37°C)
• 20g fine sea salt
• 20g extra virgin olive oil
• Pizza Sauce:
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 8 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• Salt, pepper, and sugar to taste
• Pizza Toppings:
• 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese
• Pepperoni slices (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pizza Dough:

• In a stand mixer bowl, combine bread flour, whole wheat flour, and instant yeast.
• In a separate container, dissolve yeast in warm water, then add to the flour mixture.
• Mix on low speed for 10 minutes, adding salt halfway through.
• Gradually add olive oil and continue mixing until fully incorporated.
• Perform slap and fold technique on a lightly floured surface until dough is smooth.
• Transfer dough to an oiled container, cover, and refrigerate for 1-3 days.

1. Make the Pizza Sauce:

• Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
• Sauté chopped garlic and red pepper flakes until fragrant.
• Add crushed tomatoes, simmer for 6-8 minutes until slightly thickened.
• Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar. Let cool.

1. Prepare and Bake the Pizza:

• Preheat oven to its highest setting (500-550°F / 260°C).
• Grease a baking sheet and stretch pizza dough onto it.
• Cover with a second baking sheet and let rise at room temperature for 1.5-2 hours.
• Remove top sheet, spread pizza sauce over dough, then sprinkle with mozzarella.
• Add pepperoni slices if desired, then bake for 20-25 minutes until crust is golden brown and cheese is bubbly.

Cost Breakdown:

• Pizza Dough: The total cost of flour, yeast, water, salt, and olive oil amounts to approximately $1.20.
• Pizza Sauce: Garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, canned tomatoes, and seasonings cost around $0.50.
• Pizza Toppings: Mozzarella cheese (shredded at home) and optional pepperoni add up to about $0.30 per slice.

Total Cost per Slice: Approximately $1.50, making this Sicilian pizza an incredibly affordable option for homemade meals.

---

Taste and Value Combined

This Sicilian pizza recipe not only saves you money but also delivers a satisfying dining experience. With a chewy, flavorful crust, a zesty tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese, each slice embodies the essence of classic Italian cuisine without the hefty price tag.

Final Thoughts:
Enjoy the process of creating and savoring this budget-friendly Sicilian pizza with friends and family. Experiment with toppings and techniques to make it your own while keeping costs low and flavors high.

---

Now that you know how to make a Sicilian pizza for $2 or less per slice, why not give it a try? Share your pizza-making adventures and any tips you have in the comments below. Let’s continue to explore the joy of homemade meals that are both economical and delicious!