If you’re searching for the perfect pizza dough recipe, you’ve just found it. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to make the best homemade pizza dough — whether you love a soft, chewy crust or a thin, crispy finish. No need for fancy tools or professional ovens. Just a few ingredients, a bit of technique, and a whole lot of flavor.
Why This Is the Best Pizza Dough Recipe
- Works with both all-purpose and 00 flour
- Perfect for same-day or overnight fermentation
- Easy enough for beginners, with tips from pros
- Customizable: garlic, herbs, or olive oil-infused
Whether you’re making Neapolitan pizza dough recipe or a crispy thin crust, this recipe adapts to your preferences.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| 00 flour or all-purpose | 2 to 2⅓ cups (250-295g) |
| Instant yeast | 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) |
| Warm water (105-115°F) | ¾ cup (175ml) |
| Sugar | 1½ teaspoons |
| Salt | ¾ teaspoon |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons + extra |
| Garlic powder (optional) | ⅛ to ¼ teaspoon |
| Dried herbs (optional) | ¼ teaspoon (basil or oregano) |
Step-by-Step Instructions for pizza dough recipe
1. Activate the Yeast
If you’re using active dry yeast, dissolve it in the warm water with the sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. For instant yeast, you can skip this step and mix directly.
2. Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl:
- Combine 1 cup of flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and optional garlic/herbs.
- Add warm water and olive oil.
- Stir well with a wooden spoon until smooth.
- Gradually add remaining flour until the dough pulls away from the sides.
Tip: The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
3. Knead & Rise
- Lightly flour your hands.
- Knead the dough 3-5 times until smooth.
- Transfer to an oiled bowl. Roll the dough to coat with oil.
- Cover with plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot for 30-60 minutes or until doubled in size.
4. Shape the Pizza
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (215°C).
- Place dough on a floured surface and roll or stretch into a 10-12″ round.
- Fold or pinch the edges for a thicker crust.
- Transfer to a parchment-lined pizza pan.
- Brush the surface and crust with olive oil.
- Poke holes in the center using a fork to prevent bubbles.
5. Add Toppings & Bake
- Spread your favorite sauce (try our 5-minute pizza sauce recipe).
- Add cheese, meats, vegetables, or fresh herbs.
- Bake for 13-15 minutes or until golden and crispy.
Best Flour for pizza dough recipe : 00 vs All-Purpose
If you’re wondering whether to use 00 flour or all-purpose, here’s the difference:
| Flour Type | Texture Outcome |
| 00 Flour | Crisp & elastic crust |
| All-Purpose | Soft & chewy crust |
For Neapolitan pizza dough, 00 flour is ideal. For everyday baking, all-purpose flour does the job beautifully.
Flavor Variations
Make your dough stand out by mixing these into the flour:
- Garlic powder
- Dried oregano or basil
- Grated Parmesan
- Infused olive oils (like rosemary or chili)
Pro Tips for Homemade Pizza Dough Recipe Success
- Use filtered water for better flavor
- Let the dough ferment overnight in the fridge for complex taste
- Use a pizza stone for a crispier bottom
- Always preheat your oven fully
- Brush crust with olive oil and a pinch of salt before baking
Pizza Dough Recipe FAQs
How to store pizza dough?
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for 1 month.
Can I make pizza dough without yeast?
Yes! Try a no yeast pizza base recipe using baking powder. The texture is different but still delicious.
Is bread flour better than all-purpose?
Bread flour has more gluten, which gives a chewier, crisper finish. It works great for thin-crust or grilled pizzas.
Can I make this a gluten-free pizza dough?
Substitute with gluten-free 1:1 baking flour and add a bit of xanthan gum for structure.
Final Thoughts
This ultimate pizza dough recipe delivers every time — crisp, flavorful crust with a soft interior. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, pizza parties, or weekend indulgence.
Don’t just settle for ordinary when you can create the best homemade pizza dough right in your kitchen.
Enjoy every bite, and tag your creations with #PizzaMasterpiece!
