In Hollywood, where glamor and glitz often overshadow the simpler pleasures of life, few would guess that one of its brightest stars harbors a quiet passion for something as humble as homemade pizza. Ryan Gosling, known for his brooding roles and undeniable charm, is not just a talented actor. Beyond the silver screen, he takes immense joy in an unexpected pastime—cooking. More specifically, crafting the perfect homemade pizza.
For Gosling, the kitchen represents a sanctuary, a place where creativity flourishes just as much as it does in his acting career. When he isn’t consumed by a film set, he’s likely found at home, perfecting his pizza recipe for a cozy night with his family. What makes his pizza so special, though, isn’t just the ingredients—it’s the love and simplicity behind every step.
In this article, we’ll explore the story behind Ryan Gosling’s passion for pizza-making, break down his go-to recipe, and offer you the secrets to making your own Hollywood-worthy pizza at home. So, grab your apron, roll up your sleeves, and prepare to make a pizza that even the Gosling family would approve of.
The Hollywood Star’s Hidden Culinary Passion
Ryan Gosling’s love for cooking might come as a surprise to those who only know him for his captivating roles on screen. But for those close to him, his culinary skills have long been a part of his off-screen charm. While the world sees him mastering roles in films like La La Land or Drive, his friends and family know him as a man who finds solace in the kitchen.
“I’ve always loved the process of cooking,” Ryan says in an interview. “It’s like making a film, in a way. You’ve got the ingredients, but it’s about how you put them together to make something truly special.”
For Ryan, pizza is not just food—it’s a blank canvas. Pizza night in the Gosling household is more than just a meal; it’s an activity. In between reading scripts and preparing for his next big role, he likes to spend time with his family, teaching them how to stretch dough, add sauce, and select the freshest toppings.
So why pizza, you might ask? For Ryan, pizza represents the ultimate comfort food—a dish that’s simple in concept but rich in flavor and endless in possibilities. “It’s communal,” Ryan explains. “You can bring people together with a great pizza. Everyone has their favorite way of making it, and there’s room for everyone to add their own touch.”
The Secret to Ryan Gosling’s Perfect Pizza
What sets Ryan Gosling’s pizza apart from the hundreds of recipes that flood the internet? The answer lies in its simplicity.
“The key to a great pizza is not overcomplicating it,” Ryan insists. He believes that focusing on a few high-quality ingredients is far more important than trying to do too much. “If you’ve got great dough, fresh mozzarella, and a simple sauce, you’re already most of the way there.”
1. Fresh, Handmade Dough
The foundation of any pizza is its dough, and Ryan is adamant about starting from scratch. “Making dough at home isn’t as intimidating as it sounds,” he reassures. “It’s just flour, water, yeast, and time.” While many home cooks might shy away from this step, opting for store-bought dough, Ryan encourages experimentation.
However, for those nights when time is of the essence, he recommends purchasing fresh dough from a local bakery. “Support your local bakers. They’re doing incredible things, and fresh dough makes all the difference.”
2. A Simple, Well-Seasoned Tomato Sauce
For the sauce, Ryan keeps things straightforward. His recipe calls for ripe, fresh tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and a handful of herbs. “There’s no need for sugar or any of those extras,” he says. “The sweetness of the tomatoes, when cooked properly, is all the flavor you need.”
Ryan’s philosophy on sauce is about balance. “It should complement the dough, not overpower it.” He advises using the sauce sparingly, allowing the crust to shine through with every bite.
3. Fresh Mozzarella and Basil: A Classic Duo
When it comes to toppings, Gosling opts for quality over quantity. His go-to combination? Fresh mozzarella and basil. “Mozzarella has that creamy, stretchy texture that’s perfect for pizza, and basil adds a burst of freshness that just ties everything together.”
And for those who like a little more punch in their pizza, Ryan suggests pepperoni as a simple, classic addition. But the beauty of his pizza recipe is that it’s customizable to suit anyone’s taste. “Pizza is about having fun with the flavors,” he says. “If you want to add something wild, go for it. But start with the basics, and then build from there.”
Ryan Gosling’s Step-by-Step Pizza Recipe
Ready to make your own Ryan-approved pizza? Follow these steps to create a pizza that’s sure to impress even the toughest critics.
Ingredients:
- Dough: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup warm water, 1 packet of active dry yeast, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Sauce: 4 ripe tomatoes (or a 14-ounce can of crushed tomatoes), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, pepper, fresh basil, and oregano (to taste)
- Toppings: Fresh mozzarella cheese, fresh basil leaves, pepperoni (optional)
- Extras: Olive oil for drizzling, red chili flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture and olive oil, stirring until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour.
- Make the Sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add the tomatoes (if using fresh, dice them first) and cook down until the sauce thickens (about 20 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, basil, and oregano.
- Shape and Top the Pizza:
- Preheat your oven to its highest setting (usually around 500°F/260°C).
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a round shape, about 12 inches in diameter.
- Spread a thin layer of sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.
- Tear fresh mozzarella into pieces and scatter them over the sauce.
- Add fresh basil leaves and any other toppings you desire, like pepperoni.
- Bake:
- Slide the pizza onto a preheated pizza stone or a baking sheet and bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Finishing Touches:
- Once the pizza is out of the oven, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with red chili flakes for an extra layer of flavor.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Families
Ryan Gosling’s homemade pizza is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The process of making pizza from scratch is a fantastic way to bring the family together. Whether you’re kneading dough, spreading sauce, or selecting toppings, each step offers a chance to bond.
“I love making pizza with my family because it’s hands-on,” Ryan says. “Everyone can get involved. My kids love adding their own toppings, and it’s always fun to see what they come up with.”
Pizza night also offers a creative outlet for individual tastes. With one pizza, you can have multiple combinations—one half could be classic Margherita while the other side is loaded with your favorite meats and veggies.
Ryan’s Final Touch: The Olive Oil Drizzle
One of Ryan’s signature moves is a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving. “It’s a little trick I picked up from a trip to Italy,” he says with a grin. “The olive oil adds a smooth, rich finish to the pizza.”
Additionally, he loves sprinkling red chili flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat. “It’s all about layers of flavor,” he notes. “You want each bite to surprise you.”
Conclusion: A Slice of Comfort from Ryan’s Kitchen
Ryan Gosling’s homemade pizza is more than just a delicious dish; it’s a reflection of his approach to life—simple, thoughtful, and filled with care. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet family night or hosting friends, this pizza recipe is sure to impress.
So, next time you’re in the mood for a homemade meal with a touch of Hollywood flair, try out Ryan’s recipe. You might just discover your own love for pizza-making in the process. After all, if a Hollywood star can find joy in kneading dough, there’s no reason you can’t, too.
Buon Appetito!
