Thick and chewy pan pizza crust with that desirable yeasty flavor in every bite.

Pan Pizza Crust

1 1/2 cups warm water
2 (1/4-ounce) packages active dry yeast or 5 teaspoons
1/4 cup butter, melted
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup white cornmeal
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
2 teaspoons salt

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, pour in warm water and sprinkle yeast on top. Let stand 10 minutes or until bubbling.
3. While yeast is standing, melt butter and let cool. Once yeast bubbles, stir in butter.
4. In a separate bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, sugar and salt. Stir into the yeast mixture.
5. Turn out on lightly floured surface and knead, adding additional flour as necessary.
6. Put dough into greased bowl; cover, let rise in a warm place about 1 hour or until doubled in size. Punch down to release air and press into a pizza pan.
7. Cover with sauce and desired toppings; bake until browned, about 10 to 15 minutes.

Makes 4 servings.

Note: For a slightly crunchier crust, bake the crust for 3 to 5 minutes before adding toppings.