Pizza Dough Recipe

Make the perfect homemade pizza dough with this easy recipe! Learn how to make pizza dough that’s soft, elastic, and versatile, using simple ingredients like flour, yeast, and olive oil. Perfect for thin or thick crusts, this foolproof dough is ready in just one hour and can be customized with your favorite toppings. Ideal for family pizza nights or make-ahead meals!

Ingredients

• 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (equal to 1 packet; see notes)
• ¾ cup warm water (105-115° F)
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose or bread flour (250-290 g), plus up to ⅓ cup as needed
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing bowl and crust

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast:

• In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently to dissolve. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.

1. Mix the Dough:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the salt, garlic powder, and half of the flour. Stir to blend.
• Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix well with a wooden spoon, gradually adding the remaining flour until a soft, elastic dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky and pull away from the sides of the bowl.

1. Knead the Dough:

• Dust your hands with flour and knead the dough directly in the bowl for 3-5 minutes. If the dough is overly sticky, sprinkle small amounts of flour as needed (up to ⅓ cup additional flour). The dough is ready when it springs back slowly when poked.

1. Let the Dough Rise:

• Lightly grease a large glass bowl with olive oil, using a pastry brush to coat the bottom and sides evenly. Place the dough ball into the bowl, turning it to coat with oil.
• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for 30-60 minutes, or until it doubles in size. For an overnight option, allow the dough to rise in the refrigerator.

1. Prepare for Use:

• Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down and knead it 5 times to smooth it out. Reshape the dough into a ball for immediate use or store for later (see notes).

1. Bake Your Pizza:

• Preheat your oven to 450° F. Roll out the dough, add your favorite toppings, and bake for 13-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
• Versatile: Perfect for thin or thick crust pizzas and adaptable for various toppings.
• Foolproof: Step-by-step instructions ensure great results every time.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: The dough can be refrigerated overnight for convenience.

Tips

• Measure Carefully: Use a kitchen scale for accurate flour measurement.
• Optimal Rising Environment: If your kitchen is cool, place the dough in a slightly warm oven (turned off) to rise.
• Stretching the Dough: Avoid overworking the dough to prevent tearing.
• Crispier Crust: Preheat a pizza stone or baking sheet for a crispier base.

Variations and Substitutions

• Flour Options: Substitute up to half the flour with whole wheat for a nuttier flavor.
• Herb-Infused Dough: Add 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs or oregano for an extra flavor boost.
• Garlic Lovers: Increase the garlic powder to ½ teaspoon for a more pronounced taste.

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, dissolve active dry yeast in warm water with sugar and let it sit for 10 minutes until foamy before using.

How long can I store the dough?
The dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Do I need a stand mixer?
No, this recipe is designed to be mixed and kneaded by hand.

Serving and Suggestions

• Serving Size: This recipe makes enough dough for one large pizza or two smaller personal pizzas.
• Pairings: Serve with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or dipping sauces like marinara or ranch.
• Leftover Ideas: Transform leftover pizza into a breakfast option by topping it with eggs before reheating.