Sicilian Pizza Recipe: How to Make the Perfect Thick-Crust Italian Pizza at Home
Sicilian pizza is one of Italy’s most beloved culinary treasures — a hearty, square-shaped pizza known for its thick, airy crust, rich tomato sauce, and generous cheese topping. Unlike the thin, crisp Neapolitan or New York-style versions, Sicilian pizza offers a deep, satisfying bite with every slice. In this SEO-friendly article, you’ll learn how to make an authentic Sicilian pizza recipe from scratch, along with expert tips to ensure delicious results every time.
What Is Sicilian Pizza?
Originating in Sicily, Italy, Sicilian pizza — also known as sfincione — is a rustic, home-style pizza baked in a rectangular pan. The word sfincione means “thick sponge,” which perfectly describes the pizza’s signature light and fluffy texture. Traditionally, it’s topped with a flavorful tomato sauce, anchovies, onions, herbs, and breadcrumbs. However, modern versions often include mozzarella and other toppings for added richness.
The key to great Sicilian pizza lies in its dough — thick, soft, and slightly chewy, with a crisp, golden crust achieved by baking it in a well-oiled pan.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make authentic Sicilian pizza at home, gather the following ingredients:
For the Dough:
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4 cups all-purpose or bread flour
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1 ½ cups warm water
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2 teaspoons instant yeast
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2 teaspoons sugar
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1 ½ teaspoons salt
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2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
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1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon basil
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Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Optional: pepperoni, anchovies, olives, onions, or basil leaves
How to Make Sicilian Pizza Step-by-Step
Step 1: Make the Dough
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Combine warm water, yeast, and sugar in a bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it starts to foam.
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Add flour, salt, and olive oil, then mix until a soft dough forms.
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Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
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Transfer to a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for about 1–2 hours or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
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In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
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Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
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Simmer for 10–15 minutes to thicken the sauce.
Step 3: Assemble the Pizza
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Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
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Generously oil a rectangular baking pan.
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Press the dough evenly into the pan, pushing it into the corners.
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Spread the sauce evenly over the dough, then add toppings and cheese.
Step 4: Bake the Pizza
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Expert Tips for the Best Sicilian Pizza
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Use bread flour for a chewier, stronger dough structure.
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Let the dough rise twice for better flavor and texture.
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Oil the pan well to achieve a crisp, golden crust.
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Don’t overload toppings — balance is essential for even baking.
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Use high-quality tomatoes and cheese for the most authentic taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Authentic taste: A perfect balance of Italian flavors and textures.
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Homemade comfort: Soft, fluffy crust with a crispy edge.
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Versatile toppings: Customize with your favorite meats, cheeses, and vegetables.
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Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for family dinners, parties, or casual weekends.
Serving and Storage
Serve Sicilian pizza hot, sliced into squares, with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh basil. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to three days and reheated in the oven to restore the crisp texture.
Conclusion
Making Sicilian pizza at home is a rewarding experience that combines the charm of traditional Italian cooking with the comfort of homemade food. With its thick, flavorful crust and rich tomato sauce, this Sicilian pizza recipe delivers authentic taste in every bite. Whether you’re hosting guests or simply craving a hearty Italian meal, this pizza is sure to impress.
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