Step 1: Bring the Dough to Room Temperature
This is the most important step! Remove the dough from its tub and place it on a floured surface. Cover it loosely with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour. This allows the gluten to relax, making it easy to stretch without snapping back.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven and Pan
Place a pizza stone, baking steel, or an inverted heavy baking sheet on a middle rack in your oven. Preheat the oven to its highest temperature, typically 475°F to 500°F (245°C to 260°C). A blazing hot surface is essential for a crispy crust.

Step 3: Shape the Dough
Once the dough is relaxed, lightly flour your hands and the work surface. Gently press the dough into a flat disc. Using your knuckles or gently stretching with your hands, work from the center outwards to form a 12-14 inch circle (or rectangle if using a baking sheet). Don’t worry if it’s not perfect—rustic is charming!

Step 4: The Second Rest (Optional but Recommended)
Once shaped, let the dough rest for another 5-10 minutes. This final rest will help prevent the dough from shrinking when you add the toppings.

Step 5: Transfer to a Peel or Pan
If using a pizza stone, dust a pizza peel or the back of another baking sheet with cornmeal or semolina flour. Carefully transfer your shaped dough onto it. If using a regular baking sheet, brush the sheet with olive oil and place the dough directly on it.

Step 6: Add Sauce and Toppings
Spread a thin, even layer of pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges for the crust. Sprinkle with cheese and add your desired toppings. Remember, less is more! Overloading can lead to a soggy pizza.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated stone or baking sheet (or place the prepared baking sheet into the oven). Bake for 10-15 minutes, rotating halfway through, until the crust is golden brown, the cheese is bubbly, and the edges are slightly puffed and charred in spots.

Step 8: Cool and Slice
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for 2-3 minutes. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to slice. Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to slice and serve immediately.