Easy Pizza Dough Recipe

Hey I’m John and today I’m showing you how to make an easy, versatile pizza dough so let’s get started.

Ingredients & First Steps

First off, in the bowl of your stand mixer (or a big bowl if you’re making this by hand) add ¾ cup of warm water (about 100–110 °F). If it’s a cold day and your bowl is ice-cold, run it under some hot water, swish it around, and dump it out; that way the yeast will stay nice and happy.

To the warm water add one ¼-oz packet (7 g) active dry yeast—not instant yeast. Our yeast needs a little food to wake up, so add 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (honey or brown sugar work too). Give this a mix and set it aside for 5–7 minutes until you see a nice foamy head on top. No foam? Start over with fresh yeast.

Flour Choices

Time to add the flour: 2 cups (240 g). Today I’m using all-purpose, but you have options:

• Bread flour for a chewier crust
• Double-zero flour for a thinner, crisp pizza with good chew

Bread flour has more protein (gluten), giving that chewy characteristic.

Seasoning the Dough

Add ¾ teaspoon salt, 2 teaspoons sugar (total 3 tsp in the recipe), and 1 tablespoon olive oil. If you want extra flavor, try 1 teaspoon dried herbs (rosemary, oregano, Italian seasoning) or ½ teaspoon garlic or onion powder—totally optional.

Mixing & Kneading

Mix on low for about 1 minute until the dough comes together, then increase to medium-low for 5 minutes until it forms a ball with some elasticity. By hand: stir with a wooden spoon until shaggy, then knead on a floured counter for 5–7 minutes. If the dough is too wet, sprinkle in a tablespoon or two of flour; if too dry, add warm water a tablespoon at a time.

First Rise

Lightly oil a large bowl, transfer the dough, turn to coat, cover with a damp cloth or plastic, and let rise in a warm spot about 1 hour until doubled.

Shaping the Dough

Preheat your oven to 450 °F. Punch the dough down and stretch it into a circle (no need for a rolling pin). Keep a thicker edge for the crust or tuck in cheese for stuffed crust. Transfer to a floured or cornmeal-dusted baking sheet or preheated stone.

Topping & Baking

Spread a thin layer of sauce, leaving a border. Top with mozzarella and any favorite cheeses or toppings. Bake 12–15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbling.

Enjoy

Slice and serve—crisp, chewy, and perfect for any topping you love.