Grandma's Homemade Pizza ala 'Da Boys'

2 (.25 ounce) packages fast-rising dry yeast

1 teaspoon white sugar

2 1/2 cups warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C), divided

1/3 cup olive oil

1 tablespoon salt

1 pinch garlic powder, or to taste

5 cups all-purpose flour, or more if needed

2 tablespoons butter, melted

1 tablespoon dried oregano, or to taste

2 tablespoons ricotta cheese (optional)

1 (29 ounce) can tomato puree (such as Contadina® Tomato Puree)

1 teaspoon onion powder, or to taste

1 pinch garlic powder, or to taste

1 teaspoon salt, or to taste

1 teaspoon ground black pepper, or to taste

1 teaspoon white sugar, or to taste

1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil, divided

3 Italian sausage links, casings removed

1 pinch dried oregano, or to taste (optional)

1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes, or to taste (optional)

1 1/2 teaspoons melted butter, divided

1 cup shredded pizza cheese blend, or as needed

24 slices pepperoni sausage, or as needed

3/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, or as needed

3 dashes Louisiana-style hot sauce, or to taste

What You Need