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The Best Easy Homemade Pizza Dough Recipe (No-Fail!)

Close-up of a thick-crusted slice of homemade pizza showing the airy interior structure and charred tomato topping.

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Make the perfect pizza dough at home using this easy, no-fail recipe. You achieve a soft, chewy, and flavorful crust every time you bake. This recipe works for classic pies or artisan style pizza.

Ingredients

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  • 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1 cup warm water (105°F to 115°F)
  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar in the warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it stand for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
  2. Mix the dough: Add the olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5 to 7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If you use a stand mixer with a dough hook, mix on medium-low speed for 5 minutes.
  4. First rise: Lightly grease a clean bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 60 to 90 minutes, or until it doubles in size.
  5. Shape and top: Punch the dough down gently. Divide it in half for two 12-inch pizzas or keep whole for one large sheet pan pizza. Stretch or roll the dough to your desired thickness. Place on a prepared pizza stone or baking sheet. Add your favorite homemade pizza sauce and toppings.
  6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) with a pizza stone inside, if using. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, rotating halfway through, until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Notes

  • For a crispier crust, bake the dough plain for 5 minutes before adding toppings.
  • You can achieve an artisan pizza texture by letting the dough cold-ferment in the refrigerator for 24 to 72 hours.
  • Use high-quality olive oil for better flavor in your dough.

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