Pizza Dough Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This pizza dough recipe is simple, fun, and perfect for any occasion. You’ll love how easy it is to make and how delicious it turns out every time.

• Quick and easy: With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up the dough in no time.
• Versatile: Use it for classic pizzas, calzones, or even breadsticks—it’s your canvas!
• Family-friendly: Get everyone involved in the kitchen for a fun, hands-on cooking experience.

Recipe

Making pizza dough at home is simple and rewarding, requiring just a few basic ingredients. The key to a perfect crust lies in the right balance of flour, yeast, and water, with a little patience for the dough to rise properly.

Ingredients:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 ¼ cups warm water (110°F)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve sugar in warm water. Sprinkle yeast over the water and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 7–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough, divide if needed, and roll out to desired thickness.

Notes:

• For a crispier crust, pre-bake the dough for 5 minutes before adding toppings.
• Store unused dough in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze for later use.

Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10–15 minutes (after shaping)
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including rising)
• Servings: 2 medium pizzas

Nutrition

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my homemade pizza with classic sides like garlic knots or a crisp salad, but sometimes I get creative with unexpected combos, like roasted veggies or even a charcuterie board. It’s fun to mix and match flavors, and I’ve found that a simple side can make the meal feel extra special. Let’s talk about some of my favorite pairings, both traditional and a little out-of-the-box!

Classic Side Dishes

When I’m serving up a fresh, homemade pizza, I always think about what’ll make the meal feel complete. Garlic knots are my go-to—soft, buttery, and packed with garlic flavor, they’re perfect for dipping in marinara. A Caprese salad is another favorite, with its fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, drizzled with balsamic. These sides add variety and balance, making the whole meal feel special.

Unique Pairing Ideas

Sometimes, it’s fun to think outside the box and pair pizza with something unexpected. I love experimenting with unique toppings like figs and prosciutto, or even a drizzle of honey for sweet contrast. Try bold flavor combinations, like spicy arugula with creamy burrata, or tangy pickled jalapeños with pineapple. Don’t be afraid to mix textures—crunchy nuts or crispy kale can take your pizza night to the next level!