Rhodes Pizza has become a favorite for many who crave a quick and delicious homemade pizza without the hassle of starting from scratch. Known for its perfectly soft crust and rich flavor, this recipe brings a classic frozen convenience to life in our own kitchen.
We love how Rhodes Pizza combines ease and taste, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients and a straightforward method, we can recreate that satisfying pizzeria experience right at home.
Whether you’re a seasoned pizza lover or just looking for a reliable recipe to impress family and friends, this Rhodes Pizza recipe is a game-changer. Let’s dive in and discover how to make this crowd-pleaser with confidence and ease.
Ingredients
To achieve the perfect Rhodes Pizza, we focus on using straightforward, quality ingredients. Each component plays a critical role in delivering that soft crust and rich flavor we love. Below, we break down the essentials into dough, sauce, and toppings for easy reference and preparation.
Dough Ingredients
The foundation of our Rhodes Pizza is a tender and flavorful dough. We use Rhodes Original Frozen Dough for convenience and consistent results. Here’s what we incorporate to prepare and elevate the dough:
- 1 Rhodes Original Frozen Bread Dough Loaf (thawed according to package instructions)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing and preventing stickiness)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for enhanced flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional, for subtle aromatic notes)
Sauce Ingredients
The pizza sauce is where the flavor starts to build, setting the tone for the toppings. We prefer a simple yet robust homemade sauce with fresh ingredients that can be adjusted to taste:
- 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a mild kick)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Toppings and Cheese
Choosing the right toppings and cheese brings the Rhodes Pizza to life. We recommend classic and fresh options to balance flavors and textures perfectly:
| Toppings | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shredded mozzarella | 2 cups | Use whole milk for creaminess |
| Pepperoni slices | 20-25 slices | Or substitute with cooked sausage |
| Sliced mushrooms | 1/2 cup | Fresh and thinly sliced |
| Sliced bell peppers | 1/2 cup | Choose red or green for color |
| Black olives, sliced | 1/4 cup | Optional for a savory touch |
| Fresh basil leaves | A handful | Added after baking for aroma |
By assembling these carefully selected ingredients, we ensure every bite of our Rhodes Pizza delights with its soft crust, flavorful sauce, and perfectly melted cheese topped with fresh and savory toppings.
Equipment Needed
To create an authentic Rhodes Pizza at home, having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation and perfectly cooked results. Here’s what we’ll need to assemble and bake our delicious pizza efficiently:
- Oven
Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature to achieve the ideal crust texture and melted cheese.
- Baking Sheet or Pizza Stone
Use a baking sheet for convenience or a pizza stone for a crispy, evenly cooked crust. If using a stone, preheat it in the oven for at least 30 minutes.
- Mixing Bowls
Large mixing bowls help in combining spices and preparing toppings or dough enhancements.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accuracy in measurements is crucial for consistent flavor and texture, especially when working with herbs and seasoning.
- Rolling Pin
Although Rhodes Original Frozen Dough is soft and convenient, a rolling pin helps us shape the dough uniformly without tearing.
- Pastry Brush
Use this to evenly coat the dough with olive oil or garlic butter to enhance flavor and promote browning.
- Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter
A sharp knife aids in slicing toppings like bell peppers and mushrooms. A pizza cutter speedily slices the baked pizza into perfect portions.
- Cooling Rack
Allow your pizza to cool slightly on a rack to prevent the crust from becoming soggy from trapped steam.
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Oven | Baking pizza | Preheat to 425°F (220°C) |
| Baking Sheet/Pizza Stone | Baking surface | Pizza stone yields crispier crust |
| Mixing Bowls | Mixing ingredients | One bowl for sauce, one for toppings |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Precise ingredient measurement | Essential for dough and sauce |
| Rolling Pin | Shaping dough | Gentle rolling to maintain dough softness |
| Pastry Brush | Applying oil or butter | Enhances crust browning |
| Sharp Knife/Pizza Cutter | Preparing toppings and slicing pizza | Ensures clean cuts |
| Cooling Rack | Cooling pizza post-baking | Keeps crust crispy |
By assembling these essential tools, we set ourselves up for a seamless cooking experience that highlights the rich flavors and soft crust that make Rhodes Pizza so irresistible.
Prep Work
Before diving into assembling our Rhodes Pizza, we need to prepare the three essential components: the dough, sauce, and toppings. Each step ensures our pizza delivers that perfect soft crust and rich flavor.
Preparing the Dough
To achieve the authentic Rhodes Original Frozen Dough texture, we start by thawing the dough properly:
- Remove dough from the freezer.
- Place dough in the refrigerator overnight to thaw slowly.
- Next, let the dough rest at room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes before shaping.
- Lightly flour your work surface and a rolling pin.
- Roll out the dough evenly to your desired thickness.
- Brush a thin layer of olive oil over the dough surface to enhance browning and add subtle richness.
- Sprinkle garlic powder and Italian herbs evenly to infuse flavor into the crust.
Pro tip: Avoid pressing dough too thin to maintain its signature soft yet chewy texture.
Preparing the Sauce
Our sauce combines simplicity and flavor. Here’s how we bring it to life:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Canned crushed tomatoes | 1 cup | For fresh tomato base |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | Adds richness |
| Minced garlic | 1 clove | Enhances savory aroma |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon | Classic Italian herb |
| Dried basil | 1 teaspoon | Adds depth of flavor |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Balances acidity |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon | Adds mild heat |
- Stir ingredients together until well combined.
- Let the sauce rest for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Remember, this homemade sauce is customizable. We can tweak herbs or garlic quantities according to our taste preferences.
Preparing the Toppings
Fresh and balanced toppings make or break our Rhodes Pizza experience. Here’s our go-to topping prep:
- Slice pepperoni evenly for uniform cooking.
- Clean and thinly slice mushrooms and bell peppers to ensure even baking.
- Drain black olives well to avoid excess moisture.
- Grate shredded mozzarella cheese freshly for optimal meltiness.
- Chop fresh basil to sprinkle after baking to preserve freshness and aroma.
By organizing and preparing our toppings ahead of time, we streamline assembly and achieve a harmonious burst of flavors with every bite.
Directions
Let’s walk through the essential steps to create the perfect Rhodes Pizza. Following each stage carefully ensures a soft crust, rich sauce, and delicious toppings come together flawlessly.
Shaping the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for baking.
- Remove the Rhodes Original Frozen Dough from the refrigerator and let it thaw completely at room temperature, approximately 2 hours.
- Lightly flour your work surface to prevent sticking.
- Using a rolling pin, roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle or rectangle, depending on your baking sheet or pizza stone shape.
- Transfer the rolled dough onto a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Brush the dough surface generously with olive oil mixed with 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder and 1 teaspoon Italian herbs. This infuses the crust with extra flavor and prevents sogginess.
Adding Sauce and Toppings
- Spread a thin, even layer of your homemade sauce over the dough, leaving about 1/2 inch border around the edges.
- Distribute shredded mozzarella cheese evenly across the sauced dough.
- Add your choice of toppings such as:
| Toppings | Suggested Amount | Prep Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Pepperoni | 20-25 slices | Lay evenly for balanced flavor |
| Mushrooms | 1 cup sliced | Slice thin for even cooking |
| Bell Peppers | 1/2 cup thin strips | Use a mix of colors for visual appeal |
| Black Olives | 1/4 cup sliced | Drain well to prevent excess moisture |
- Avoid overcrowding toppings to ensure proper cooking and to keep the crust crisp.
- Reserve fresh basil leaves to add after baking for a burst of aromatic freshness.
Baking the Pizza
- Place your prepared pizza in the oven on the middle rack.
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12 to 15 minutes or until:
- The crust turns golden brown and firm to touch.
- The mozzarella cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Carefully remove the pizza from the oven.
- Immediately garnish with fresh basil leaves for an authentic finish.
- Let the pizza cool on a wire rack for about 5 minutes before slicing to set the toppings and make serving easier.
By following these detailed directions, our Rhodes Pizza promises to deliver a satisfying slice every time—soft crust, vibrant toppings, and that homemade charm.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing our Rhodes Pizza in advance saves valuable time and enhances convenience without compromising freshness or flavor. Follow these steps to master the make-ahead process and enjoy a quick meal whenever you crave homemade pizza.
1. Prepare and Store the Dough
- Thaw the Rhodes Original Frozen Dough as directed until pliable.
- Shape and roll the dough into the desired pizza size.
- Brush the dough lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder and Italian herbs, locking in aroma and flavor.
- Place the dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza stone.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or use an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 2 weeks.
2. Make and Refrigerate the Sauce
- Prepare the sauce by combining crushed tomatoes, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
- Let the sauce rest for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors.
- Transfer to an airtight jar or container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the sauce in portioned bags for up to 3 months.
3. Prep Toppings Ahead of Time
- Wash and slice all fresh vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, and black olives.
- Arrange toppings in sealed containers or zip-top bags.
- Refrigerate all prepared toppings for up to 3 days.
4. Assembly Tips on Baking Day
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Preheat oven | Heat to 425°F (220°C) for an evenly cooked crust and toppings. |
| Unwrap dough | Remove plastic and let dough come to room temperature for 10 min. |
| Spread sauce | Apply a thin even layer to avoid soggy crust. |
| Add toppings | Distribute evenly for balanced flavor and cooking. |
| Bake | 12-15 minutes until crust is golden and cheese bubbles. |
| Garnish | Add fresh basil after baking for vibrant aroma and taste. |
“Planning ahead with these make-ahead steps lets us enjoy the perfect Rhodes Pizza anytime without the last-minute rush.”
By adopting this make-ahead strategy, we streamline pizza night preparation, ensuring each slice delivers crispy crust, rich sauce, and deliciously fresh toppings.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Rhodes Pizza experience, thoughtful serving suggestions can transform each slice into a delightful feast. Here are some ideas to serve our homemade pizza in style and with complementary flavors:
Pairing Beverages
We recommend pairing the Rhodes Pizza with beverages that balance its rich, savory profile.
| Beverage Type | Specific Suggestions | Flavor Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wine | Chianti, Pinot Noir, or a light Merlot | Fruity, medium-bodied |
| Beer | Pale Ale, Amber Lager, or a classic Pilsner | Crisp and refreshing |
| Non-Alcoholic | Sparkling water with lemon, iced tea, or a citrus soda | Light and palate-cleansing |
Suggested Side Dishes
Including sides can round out the meal and provide textural contrast:
- Fresh Garden Salad with a tangy vinaigrette enhances the pizza’s richness with refreshing crispness.
- Garlic Breadsticks brushed with herbs and butter echo the pizza’s Italian flavors.
- Roasted Vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers add a smoky, tender element.
Serving Tips for Best Enjoyment
- Allow the pizza to cool for 3-5 minutes after baking. This resting period ensures the cheese sets slightly, making each slice easier to handle and savor.
- Use a sharp pizza cutter to create clean, consistent slices that maintain their toppings.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving to boost aroma and flavor.
Presentation Ideas
- Serve the pizza on a wooden board or pizza stone for rustic charm.
- Offer small bowls of crushed red pepper flakes, grated Parmesan, and garlic-infused olive oil alongside for personalization.
- Pair with a simple herb-infused olive oil dipping sauce for a gourmet touch.
By integrating these serving suggestions with our Rhodes Pizza recipe, we can create a memorable meal that delights all senses and impresses family or guests alike.
Conclusion
Rhodes Pizza offers a fantastic way to enjoy homemade pizza without the hassle of starting from scratch. With its soft crust and customizable toppings, it fits perfectly into busy lifestyles while still delivering great flavor.
By following our tips and make-ahead strategies, you can have a delicious pizza ready whenever cravings hit. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, Rhodes Pizza brings convenience and taste together effortlessly.
Let’s keep experimenting with flavors and enjoy the simple joy of crafting pizza that everyone will love.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rhodes Pizza, and why is it popular for homemade meals?
Rhodes Pizza uses frozen Rhodes Original Dough to create a soft, flavorful crust quickly. It’s popular for its ease, allowing homemade pizza without starting dough from scratch, perfect for busy nights or gatherings.
What are the key ingredients for making Rhodes Pizza?
The main ingredients are Rhodes Original Frozen Dough, olive oil, garlic powder, Italian herbs for the dough; canned crushed tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, dried herbs for the sauce; and classic toppings like mozzarella, pepperoni, mushrooms, peppers, and olives.
How do I prepare the dough for Rhodes Pizza?
Thaw the frozen dough, then roll it out on a floured surface. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle garlic powder and Italian herbs before adding sauce and toppings.
What is the best way to make the pizza sauce?
Combine canned crushed tomatoes, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let it rest briefly to blend flavors before spreading on the dough.
Can I prepare Rhodes Pizza ingredients ahead of time?
Yes, you can shape and season the dough, store it refrigerated or frozen. Sauce can be made up to five days in advance or frozen. Toppings can be prepped and stored in the fridge.
What oven temperature should I use to bake Rhodes Pizza?
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) for best results, baking the pizza for about 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
What equipment do I need to make Rhodes Pizza at home?
You’ll need an oven, baking sheet or pizza stone, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, rolling pin, pastry brush, sharp knife or pizza cutter, and a cooling rack.
How can I ensure my Rhodes Pizza has a crispy crust?
Use a pizza stone or preheated baking sheet for even heat. Avoid overloading toppings and bake at 425°F for 12-15 minutes to get a golden, crispy crust.
What serving suggestions complement Rhodes Pizza?
Pair with beverages like Chianti or Pale Ale. Serve with fresh garden salad, garlic breadsticks, fresh basil garnish, olive oil drizzle, and present on a wooden board with dipping sauces.
How should I store leftover Rhodes Pizza?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or a skillet to maintain crust crispiness and melty cheese.