The BEST Homemade Pizza Dough Recipe
This easy-to-make pizza dough results in a crispy, chewy crust that's perfect for any topping you crave. Whether you're making a classic margherita or loaded with your favorite ingredients, this dough will be your go-to!
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
rise time 1 hour hr
Total Time 1 hour hr 25 minutes mins
Course Main Course, Snack
Cuisine Italian
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast 1 packet
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 ½ cups warm water 110°F or 45°C
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder optional for extra flavor
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano optional
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This ensures that the yeast is activated.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, garlic powder, and oregano (if using).
Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture and olive oil.
Stir until the dough begins to form and come together. If using a stand mixer, use the dough hook attachment to mix on medium speed for about 5 minutes. If mixing by hand, knead on a floured surface for about 7-8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Once the dough is mixed, shape it into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
Divide the dough into two equal portions (for two medium pizzas).
On a floured surface, roll out each portion into your desired pizza shape. You can make it round, square, or rectangular, depending on your pan or pizza stone size.
Step 5: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, make sure it's in the oven while preheating.
If using a baking sheet, lightly grease it with olive oil or line it with parchment paper.
Step 6: Add Toppings and Bake
Transfer the shaped dough to a baking sheet or hot pizza stone.
Add your favorite pizza sauce, cheese, and toppings.
Bake the pizza for about 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy and the cheese is bubbling and melted.
Pro Tips:
✔ Preheat your pizza stone for an even crispier crust. If you don't have one, a baking sheet will work perfectly.
✔ Let the dough rise in a warm place. If it's too cold in your kitchen, try turning on the oven for a few minutes and then turning it off before placing the dough inside to rise.
✔ If you're short on time, you can let the dough rise in the fridge overnight for even better flavor. Just bring it to room temperature before rolling it out.
- Storage: You can store leftover dough in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
- Freezing: You can also freeze the dough. Shape it into balls and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. When ready to use, let it thaw overnight in the fridge.
Keyword easy pizza crust, homemade pizza, pizza dough, pizza dough recipe