1. Prepare the Dough:

• In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and sugar. Whisk to combine the dry ingredients thoroughly. This ensures even distribution and prevents clumps.
• In a separate small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in the warm water. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy. This “proofing” step confirms that the yeast is active and ready to make your dough rise. If using instant yeast, you can skip this step and add it directly to the dry ingredients.
• Add the olive oil and the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients.
• Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until a shaggy dough forms.
• Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. The dough should be tacky but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time. If it’s too dry, add a tiny bit of water. Kneading develops the gluten in the flour, which gives the pizza crust its chewy texture.
• Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.
• Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size. This is the first rise, where the yeast produces carbon dioxide, making the dough light and airy. A warm place helps the yeast to work efficiently.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

• While the dough is rising, prepare the pizza sauce. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• If using fresh garlic, add the minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant but not browned. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.
• Add the tomato sauce, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine all ingredients.
• Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Simmering allows the flavors to meld and deepen, creating a richer, more complex sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water to thin it slightly.
• Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add sugar if the sauce is too acidic or more salt and pepper to taste.
• Remove the sauce from the heat and set aside to cool slightly.

3. Assemble the Upside Down Pizza:

• Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or a similar sized oven-safe skillet with olive oil. This prevents the pizza from sticking and helps with easy removal after baking.
• Pour the pizza sauce evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
• Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese, provolone cheese (if using), and parmesan cheese (if using) evenly over the sauce. The cheese layer will create a barrier between the sauce and toppings and melt beautifully during baking.
• Arrange your desired toppings evenly over the cheese layer. Get creative and layer your favorite combinations! Ensure toppings are spread relatively evenly to ensure consistent cooking and flavor distribution in each slice.
• Punch down the risen pizza dough to release air bubbles.
• On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to fit the size of your baking dish, about 9×13 inches. You can use a rolling pin or gently stretch the dough with your hands.
• Carefully place the dough over the toppings in the baking dish, tucking the edges down around the sides to create a sealed crust. This creates the “upside down” effect and ensures all the delicious flavors are captured.
• Use a fork to poke a few holes in the dough to allow steam to escape during baking and prevent the crust from puffing up too much.

4. Bake the Pizza:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The baking time may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of your crust.
• Let the pizza cool in the baking dish for 5-10 minutes. This allows the pizza to set slightly, making it easier to invert.

5. Invert and Serve:

• Carefully run a knife or spatula around the edges of the pizza to loosen it from the baking dish.
• Place a large serving platter or cutting board over the baking dish.
• Holding the platter and baking dish firmly together, quickly and confidently invert the pizza onto the platter. Be careful as the baking dish will be hot, and some sauce may drip.
• If any toppings stick to the baking dish, gently scrape them off and arrange them back on the pizza.
• Garnish with fresh basil leaves (if desired).
• Slice and serve hot! Enjoy your delicious Upside Down Pizza!