The Best Homemade Pizza Dough Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This homemade pizza dough recipe is a game-changer for pizza night, offering a simple way to bring authentic flavor to your kitchen. You’ll love how easy it is to make, using basic ingredients you likely already have on hand. The dough is soft, stretchy, and perfect for creating your favorite pizza styles. Plus, it freezes well, so you can always have fresh dough ready to go. Finally, it’s a fun activity that’s great for cooking with family or friends!

Recipe

Making pizza dough at home is easier than you might think, and the results are far superior to store-bought options. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a delicious, chewy crust that’s perfect for your favorite toppings.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add the olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture.
3. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
6. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
7. Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll out each portion into your desired pizza shape.
8. Add your favorite toppings and bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden brown.

Notes:

• For a crispier crust, preheat a pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven before baking.
• Let the dough rest for 10 minutes after rolling it out to prevent shrinkage.

Equipment:

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Pizza stone or baking sheet

Time:

Prep time: 15 minutes

Rising time: 1-2 hours

Cooking time: 12-15 minutes

Cuisine: Italian

Serving: Makes 2 medium-sized pizzas

Nutrition

This homemade pizza dough recipe provides essential nutrients per serving. Here are the nutritional details:

What To Serve With It

When I make homemade pizza, I love pairing it with simple side dishes like a fresh garden salad or garlic knots to round out the meal. For toppings, I experiment with classics like pepperoni and mushrooms, but occasionally add unique twists like roasted veggies or goat cheese. Mixing and matching keeps it exciting, and I’m always curious to hear what combinations you enjoy!

Side Dishes

Since I love pairing my homemade pizza with something fresh and complementary, I often whip up a simple green salad. It’s light, crisp, and balances the richness of the pizza perfectly. I toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette. Garlic knots are another favorite—soft, buttery, and irresistible. For a heartier option, I’ll roast some veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli, tossing them with olive oil and herbs. Soup, especially a classic tomato or minestrone, is cozy and comforting on colder nights. These sides keep things balanced and make pizza night feel extra special.

Topping Ideas

Alongside choosing the perfect side dishes, deciding on pizza toppings can be just as exciting—it’s where creativity really shines! I love starting with classic combos like pepperoni and mushrooms, then mixing it up with unexpected twists, like caramelized onions or roasted garlic. Fresh basil and mozzarella make a simple Margherita sing, while spicy sausage and honey drizzle add bold flavor. Don’t forget veggies—bell peppers, spinach, or even thinly sliced potatoes work wonders. For a fun twist, try BBQ chicken or a white pizza with ricotta. The best part? There’s no wrong answer, so pile on what you love and dig in!