Pizza Dough Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Making pizza dough from scratch is easier than you think, and the results are so much better than store-bought. You’ll love how soft, chewy, and flavorful this homemade version turns out.
- Simple ingredients – Just flour, water, yeast, and a few pantry staples come together to create the perfect base for your favorite toppings.
- Versatile and fun – Shape it thin for a crispy crust or thick for a fluffy bite, and let your creativity shine with toppings.
- Better than takeout – Freshly baked pizza straight from your oven tastes amazing, and you’ll feel proud knowing you made it yourself.
Recipe
Making pizza dough from scratch is a simple process that yields delicious results. Start by mixing 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast with 1 1/2 cups of warm water and letting it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Add 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size. Once risen, punch down the dough and shape it into your desired pizza crust. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and bake the crust with your favorite toppings for 12-15 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Rise Time: 1 hour
Serving: Makes 2 medium pizzas
Notes: For a crispier crust, pre-bake the dough for 5 minutes before adding toppings. You can also refrigerate the dough overnight for a slower rise, which enhances flavor.
Nutrition
Pizza dough is a versatile base for various toppings, offering a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fat | 2 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
What To Serve With It
When I make pizza, I love getting creative with toppings like fresh veggies, pepperoni, or even pineapple for a sweet twist. Pairing it with a simple side, like a crisp salad or garlic bread, makes the meal feel complete. Let’s explore some fun ideas to take your pizza night to the next level!
Pizza Toppings Ideas
It’s amazing how a few simple toppings can transform a basic pizza into something truly special. I love experimenting with topping combinations, like classic pepperoni and mushrooms or a mix of caramelized onions and goat cheese. Sometimes, I’ll try unusual toppings, like thinly sliced pears with gorgonzola or roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze. The key is balancing flavors and textures—something salty, something sweet, and a bit of crunch. Don’t be afraid to get creative; even leftovers can make great toppings. Remember, it’s your pizza, so pile on what you love and enjoy every bite!
Side Dishes Pairings
Nothing completes a pizza night like the perfect side dishes—they’re the supporting cast that makes the meal feel complete. I love pairing my pizza with side dish suggestions that bring out complementary flavors. A crisp Caesar salad adds freshness, while garlic knots or breadsticks are perfect for dipping into marinara. Roasted veggies, like zucchini or bell peppers, add a healthy twist, and a bowl of creamy tomato soup feels cozy on colder nights. For something fun, try mozzarella sticks or a charcuterie board. These sides elevate the experience, making every bite of pizza even more satisfying.
