Homemade pizza can be surprisingly cheap — with just a few simple ingredients and a little creativity, you’ll savor rich flavor without the high price tag. Most assume you need premium ingredients or a pizza oven, but some of the most flavorful pizzas start with basic, everyday items.

Start with the dough. Skip the store-bought crust. All you need is flour, water, yeast, salt, and a drizzle of olive oil. Knead, proof, and roll out for a budget-friendly foundation. If you’re short on time, you can even use store-bought flatbread or tortillas as a quick crust alternative.

Ditch the canned sauces full of junk. Simmer crushed tomatoes with garlic, salt, dried herbs, and a touch of oil. Let it bubble gently for a short time — it’s superior to store-bought.

Mozzarella is the go-to, but you don’t need much. Just a light layer is enough. If you’re on a tight budget, try using a block of mozzarella and shredding it yourself. Freshly grated melts smoother and saves cash. Toss in some aged parmesan for a flavor boost at low cost.

The best way to cut costs? Get creative with toppings. Swap deli meats for what’s in your fridge. Leftover bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, spinach, or even canned corn make excellent toppings. Protein from leftovers transforms pizza into dinner. A pinch of red pepper or oregano elevates the whole pie.

Bake on a rimmed tray or cast iron pan. Preheat your oven as hot as it will go, around 500 degrees. Cook until crisp and bubbling — 10–15 minutes is perfect.

You can make a different pizza every night. Try classic red sauce, then pesto with greens, then BBQ with chicken. You’ll save money and never get bored.

Home pizza beats takeout every time. Using what’s on hand and vegas108 link a bit of forethought. You can make restaurant-quality pizza at home for a fraction of the cost. Plus, you’ll enjoy the satisfaction of making something delicious from scratch.