Start by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C). You want it hot enough to give your pizza a delightful crispiness.

On a floured surface, take the pizza dough from Trader Joe’s and shape it. If you like a thicker crust, leave it a bit chunky. For a thinner style, stretch it out with your hands or a rolling pin. I usually opt for a medium thickness, which provides balance – it’s sturdy yet light.

Transfer your dough onto a baking sheet or pizza stone. Spread the Tomato Basil Sauce evenly over the crust. Aim for a thin layer so it doesn’t become overly soggy.

Sprinkle the mozzarella shreds generously over the sauce. Don’t hold back; the more cheese, the merrier! Then, sprinkle the grated Parmesan on top for that extra cheesy finish.

Now comes the creative part. Scatter the pepperoni slices across the pizza. Add the black olives wherever you want a salty kick. Feeling adventurous? Go wild with additional toppings like bell peppers or mushrooms.

If you love Italian herbs, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes and Italian seasoning on top. This simple addition can change the entire flavor dynamic.

To finish, drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the top. This helps the crust turn golden and adds richness.

Slide your pizza into the preheated oven. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Keep an eye on it; you want perfectly melted cheese and a crisp crust.

Finally, let it cool for a couple of minutes. Slice it up and serve! This moment is magical; watching loved ones enjoy your creation is worth every second spent in the kitchen.