Crust:
3 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 ounce cheddar cheese, shredded
1 egg
Pinch garlic powder
Pinch basil

Toppings:
2 tablespoons ketchup (no sugar added)
12 slices pepperoni, about 3/4 ounces
2 ounces cooked, crumbled Italian sausage, about 1/2 cup
1-2 fresh mushrooms, thinly sliced, about 1 ounce
1 ounce red onion, very thinly sliced
2 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
Pinch garlic powder
Pinch basil, optional

Line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper or nonstick foil. In a small bowl, mix the crust ingredients well. Dump the crust mixture into the pan and spread in an even layer with your fingers. Be sure to completely cover the bottom of the pan. Bake at 450º for 5 minutes then turn the oven down to 400º and bake another 4-5 minutes until the crust is nicely browned on the top and bottom. Don't let it get too dark around the edges.

Keep the oven rack in the center position and turn on the broiler. Spread the sauce over the crust and top with about two thirds of the cheese. Arrange the meats, mushrooms and onions over the cheese as desired. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the toppings to help hold them on. Broil the pizza until the toppings are hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 4-5 minutes.

Makes 2 servings

STAGE 2 PIZZA CRUST