Step 1

In the evening, combine the sourdough starter and water in a large mixing bowl (I use a fork to mix). Add the flour and salt.

Step 2

Continue mixing, and then finish by hand to fully incorporate the flour. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let rest for 30 minutes at room temperature.

Step 3

After resting, return to the bowl and fold the dough over itself several times, similar to the stretch and fold method, to create a rough ball. The dough is now ready to rise.

Step 4

Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled high-sided 2 qt. dough tub.

Step 5

Cover and let rise overnight at room temperature, about 68 F for 10-12+ hrs. The dough is ready when it has almost doubled in size. If your ambient temperature is warmer /colder than 68 F, the dough will take shorter/longer to rise, respectively. Watch the dough and not the clock. Rise times will be different for every baker. (see Note #1).

Step 6

Coat a non-stick 9×13-inch baking pan with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Use your hands to rub the bottom and sides of the pan.

Step 7

Remove the dough directly into the pan. With oiled fingertips, gently dimple and stretch the dough to reach the corners and sides of the pan- that’s the end goal. If the dough is relaxed, it will naturally spread out. If it’s tight, which is normal after a long rise, the dough will resist. Simply take note of your dough at this stage. Don’t force it. Watch my video for visual instructions.

Step 8

Cover the pan with an inverted baking sheet and rest in a warm spot, such as a proofing box set to 78F or a turned off oven with the light on, for 30 minutes.

Step 9

After 30 minutes has elapsed: return to the pan and dimple the dough again, just like you did before, gently lifting and stretching it as you go. Cover and rest for another 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 450 F now.

Step 10

After the second 30 minutes has elapsed, you’re ready to par-bake the pizza crust.

Step 11

Place the baking pan on the bottom rack. Bake the dough @ 450 F for 15-18 minutes, or until the surface is set and the bottom crust is light golden brown. Use tongs to peek underneath the dough to double check. The bottom crust color depends on the type of pan you’re using; adjust the time or oven rack as needed.

Step 12

Remove the pan from the oven. You are now ready to assemble and bake pizza (see Note #2).

Step 13

Top the par-baked pizza crust with tomato sauce. I spread it all over the surface including the crust. Season with salt and pepper. Add the basil leaves, a fresh grating of Parmesan cheese and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese taking it to the corners and sides for crispy edges. Tuck any remaining cheese cubes into the corners. Bake @ 450 F, middle or top rack this time, until the cheese is melted and broiled in some spots, about 12-15 minutes. You can even stick it under the broiler to really crisp it up.

Step 14

To Make Sourdough Pizza (later): Transfer the par-baked pizza crust to a wire rack to cool. You want to aerate the underside so the crust doesn’t get soggy. Once completely cool, cover tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 6 hours. When ready to bake, return the pizza to the same baking pan (don’t bother cleaning it; any leftover oil is fine), assemble and bake as directed above.