Preheat your oven to the hottest temperature it’ll go to (usually 450–500°F / 230–260°C). A hot oven makes a crisp crust, which is the whole vibe here.

Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface. Don’t stress if it’s not perfect—character is better than symmetry, right?

Brush a thin layer of olive oil around the crust edge to help it crisp and prevent sogginess.

Spread a generous layer of tomato sauce over the dough. Don’t drown it; you want a saucy-but-not-soup situation.

Scatter mozzarella evenly across the surface. It will melt into a cheesy blanket, which is exactly what you want.

Top with peppers, red onion, cherry tomatoes, olives, and corn if you’re using it. Think colorful and balanced—vitamins meet flavor.

Bake on a pizza stone or a lined baking sheet for 12–15 minutes, until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

Finish with fresh basil, a light sprinkle of salt, and a crack of black pepper. Slice and serve hot.