Pizza Dough Recipe Instant Yeast

This pizza dough recipe with instant yeast makes it easy to create soft, chewy, and flavorful crusts in less than an hour.
It’s the perfect base for any topping — from classic Margherita to loaded pepperoni — with no proofing needed.
Quick, simple, and fail-proof, it turns pizza night into a homemade success story every time.

Ingredients List

– 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
– ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus more for brushing)
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
– ½ teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
– Cornmeal for dusting (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and instant yeast. Unlike active yeast, instant yeast doesn’t need proofing—just stir it in directly. Let it sit for 2–3 minutes to dissolve slightly.

Step 2: Add olive oil, salt, and about 1½ cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon or dough hook until the mixture starts to come together.

Step 3: Gradually add the remaining ½ cup of flour, mixing until the dough begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl. If it feels sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour—just a tablespoon at a time.

Step 4: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. This step develops gluten, giving the crust its classic chewy texture.

Step 5: Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a towel and let rest for 10–15 minutes while you prepare your pizza toppings. The instant yeast allows a quick rise—just enough to relax the dough.

Step 6: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it inside to heat up; if not, a baking sheet works fine.

Step 7: Roll out the dough into your desired shape—round or rectangular—on a lightly floured or cornmeal-dusted surface. Aim for about ¼ inch thickness for a classic crust.

Step 8: Transfer the rolled dough onto parchment paper or a prepared baking tray. Brush lightly with olive oil and add your favorite sauce, cheese, and toppings.

Step 9: Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly. Remove from the oven and cool for 2–3 minutes before slicing.

Step 10: Serve immediately and enjoy your freshly baked, homemade pizza with perfectly chewy and crisp edges.

Cook Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Rest Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings

Makes 1 large pizza or 2 medium pizzas (serves 3–4 people)

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

Calories: 180
Carbs: 30g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 4g

Storage Instructions

Store leftover dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.
Once baked, store leftover pizza slices in the fridge for 2–3 days and reheat in the oven for best texture.

Pairings/Suggestions

Pair your homemade pizza with a crisp Caesar salad or garlic knots for a full meal.
Add a drizzle of olive oil or chili flakes on top for an extra kick.
It also pairs beautifully with sparkling water, lemonade, or a glass of red wine for dinner.

Seasonal Relevance

This instant yeast pizza dough recipe works year-round for pizza nights, parties, or casual dinners.
In summer, top it with fresh tomatoes and basil for a light Margherita pizza.
In winter, load it with cheese, sausage, or roasted vegetables for a hearty, comforting meal.

Health Benefits

Homemade pizza dough is a healthier alternative to store-bought crusts, as it avoids preservatives and excess sodium.
Using olive oil adds healthy fats that support heart health, and you can choose whole wheat flour for extra fiber.
Controlling the ingredients lets you balance indulgence with nutrition—especially when topped with vegetables and lean proteins.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Quick and easy to prepare	Best served fresh
No proofing needed	Requires kneading time
Customizable for any toppings	Can over-rise if left too long
Soft yet crisp texture	Needs precise oven temperature

Conclusion

This pizza dough recipe with instant yeast delivers delicious, chewy crusts in under an hour. With no waiting for long rises, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous pizza cravings. The instant yeast ensures reliability and flavor every time, while simple pantry ingredients make it accessible to everyone.

Whether you prefer classic pepperoni, veggie-loaded, or barbecue chicken pizza, this versatile dough holds up beautifully under any topping combination. Once you’ve tried this no-fail recipe, you’ll never go back to store-bought crusts again.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. Just thaw and bring to room temperature before rolling out.

Q2: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
Absolutely. Substitute half the flour with whole wheat for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber, though the crust may be slightly denser.

Q3: What’s the best way to get a crispy crust?
Preheat a pizza stone or baking steel before baking, and use parchment paper to transfer the pizza for an evenly crisp bottom.