If you’re looking for a foolproof way to make delicious homemade pizza, this easy pizza dough recipe is the only one you’ll ever need. With just 6 simple ingredients and a little rise time, you can create a soft, chewy crust that’s crisp on the outside and full of flavor inside. Whether it’s pizza night with the family or a weekend dinner project, this beginner-friendly dough recipe delivers consistent results every time. Say goodbye to store-bought crusts—this is homemade pizza, made simple.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Beginner-friendly – Designed with first-timers in mind.
- Simple pantry ingredients – You likely already have everything.
- Customizable crust – Thin or thick, classic or whole wheat.
- Chewy and flavorful – Better than takeout!
- Make-ahead & freezer friendly – Prep now, bake later.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 1½ teaspoons sugar
- 1 packet (¼ oz) active dry yeast
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or half AP, half white whole wheat)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon olive oil, divided
Instructions
- Activate the yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let sit for 5–10 minutes, or until foamy. - Mix the dough
In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer with dough hook, combine flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Mix until a dough forms. - Knead
Knead on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes (or use the mixer on medium for 5 minutes) until dough is smooth and elastic. If sticky, add a little more flour. - Let it rise
Brush a large bowl with 1 teaspoon olive oil. Add the dough, cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size—about 1 hour. - Shape and bake
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Stretch or roll into a 12–14 inch circle. Add toppings and bake at 500°F for 10–13 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10–13 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Servings: Makes 1 large pizza (serves 3–4)
- Skill Level: Easy
Nutrition Facts (Per Slice, based on 8 slices)
- Calories: 150
- Carbs: 28g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
Without toppings. Nutrition will vary based on ingredients used.
Tips & Variations
- Use bread flour: For a chewier texture.
- Add herbs to the dough: Mix in garlic powder, oregano, or rosemary.
- Don’t have a pizza stone? Use a cast iron skillet or baking sheet dusted with cornmeal.
- Let dough rest in fridge overnight: Improves flavor and texture.
- Freeze for later: Wrap in plastic and freeze for up to 3 months.
FAQs
Can I make this dough ahead of time?
Yes! Refrigerate for up to 2 days after the first rise. Let come to room temperature before shaping.
Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Freeze after the first rise. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bring to room temp before baking.
What if I don’t have a stand mixer?
No problem—mix with a spoon, then knead by hand for 7–8 minutes.
Can I use instant yeast?
Yes. Skip the proofing step and add directly to flour, but warm water is still needed.
Easy Pizza Dough Recipe
Equipment
- – Mixing bowl
- – Dough hook or hands
- – Pizza stone or baking sheet
Ingredients
- – ¾ cup warm water 110°F
- – 1½ tsp sugar
- – 1 packet ¼ oz active dry yeast
- – 2 cups all-purpose flour
- – 1 tsp sea salt
- – 1 tbsp + 1 tsp olive oil
Instructions
- Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5–10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add yeast mixture and 1 tbsp olive oil.
- Knead until smooth and elastic, 5–7 minutes.
- Transfer dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
- Shape into a 14-inch circle on a floured surface.
- Add toppings and bake at 500°F for 10–13 minutes, or until crust is golden.
Notes
– Freezes well for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This easy pizza dough recipe is the perfect starting point for any homemade pizza night. Whether you’re piling on veggies, pepperoni, or keeping it classic with mozzarella and basil, a flavorful crust is the foundation. Once you master this simple recipe, you’ll never need store-bought dough again—and your homemade pizzas will be legendary.