What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Making homemade pizza dough is easier than you think, and the results are so much better than store-bought. You’ll love how simple and rewarding this recipe is, with just a few basic ingredients.
- Soft and Chewy Texture – The dough bakes up perfectly fluffy with a slight crisp on the edges, just like your favorite pizzeria.
- Endless Topping Options – Customize it with whatever you’re craving, from classic margherita to loaded veggie or meat lovers.
- Fun for the Whole Family – Rolling out the dough and adding toppings is a great way to get everyone involved in the kitchen.
Recipe
Making pizza dough from scratch is a simple and rewarding process that yields delicious results. With just a few basic ingredients and some patience, you can create a flavorful and versatile dough 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 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for kneading
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for greasing
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Stir until a dough forms, then turn it out onto a floured surface. Knead for about 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Grease a large bowl with olive oil and place the dough inside, turning it to coat. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and let them rest for 10 minutes before shaping into pizza crusts.
Notes:
- For a crispier crust, preheat your oven with a pizza stone or baking sheet before baking.
- The dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours or frozen for up to 3 months.
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Clean kitchen towel
Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours (including rising time)
Cuisine: Italian
Serving: Makes 2 medium-sized pizzas
Nutrition
Homemade pizza dough provides a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, making it a versatile base for various toppings. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving (based on one slice).
Calories: 120
Total Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: 0.2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 150mg
Total Carbohydrates: 24g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 0.5g
Protein: 3g
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade pizza with a fresh side salad—it adds crunch and balance to every bite. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette works wonders, but I’ve got more ideas if you want to get creative. Don’t forget a glass of wine; I’ll share my favorite picks that make the meal even better.
Side Salad Ideas
Pizza night’s always better with a fresh side salad, don’t you think? I love pairing my pizza with a simple green salad. Toss together crisp romaine, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. A tangy vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt ties it all together. Sometimes, I’ll add a Caesar salad for something creamy, or a Caprese with juicy tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. If I’m feeling fancy, a kale salad with dried cranberries and walnuts hits the spot. A side salad adds a pop of freshness that balances the rich flavors of the pizza. Perfect combo!
Wine Pairing Tips
Alongside a fresh salad, a good glass of wine can really elevate your pizza night. I love pairing a crisp white like Pinot Grigio with lighter toppings, such as margherita or veggie pizza—it cuts through the richness without overpowering the flavors. For heartier pies, like pepperoni or meat lovers, a medium-bodied red, such as Sangiovese, works wonders. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a sparkling rosé with a prosciutto and arugula pizza—the bubbles and acidity balance the saltiness perfectly. Remember, there’s no wrong choice—just pick what you enjoy! Cheers to delicious pizza and even better sips.
