Quick Pizza Dough Recipe

Quick pizza dough is the perfect solution when you’re craving homemade pizza but don’t have hours to wait for yeast to rise. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can enjoy fresh pizza in no time.

This recipe makes a soft, flavorful crust that’s ideal for thin or medium pizzas, ready in under an hour. It’s flexible enough for weeknight dinners yet reliable enough to serve a hungry crowd.

Whether topped with classic marinara and cheese or loaded with veggies and meats, this quick dough is the ultimate base for your favorite pizza creations.

Ingredients List

– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup warm water (110°F / 45°C)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Extra flour for dusting
– Optional: garlic powder, dried oregano, or Italian seasoning for added flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt until well combined. This ensures the yeast distributes evenly in the dough.

Step 2: Add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until the dough begins to come together.

Step 3: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add small amounts of flour if sticky.

Step 4: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rest for 10–15 minutes. This short resting time allows the dough to relax and makes it easier to roll out.

Step 5: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Roll the dough out into your desired pizza shape—circle, rectangle, or rustic style—depending on your pan or stone.

Step 6: Place the rolled dough onto a greased baking sheet or preheated pizza stone. Add your desired toppings like sauce, cheese, and vegetables.

Step 7: Bake for 12–15 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Slice and enjoy warm.

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, serving 4–6 people.

Nutritional Information (approx. per slice, assuming 8 slices)

Calories: 160
Carbs: 30g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 3g

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate leftover dough wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 days.
Freeze dough in a sealed freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
Baked pizza slices can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet or oven.

Pairings/Suggestions

Pair this quick pizza dough with a simple marinara or pesto base.
Serve alongside garlic breadsticks or a fresh Caesar salad for a full meal.
Try topping with buffalo chicken, barbecue sauce, or roasted vegetables for fun flavor twists.

Seasonal Relevance

Perfect for summer gatherings when you want homemade pizza without long prep.
Great for cozy winter nights paired with hot soup or roasted veggies.
Ideal for back-to-school weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast.

Health Benefits

This quick pizza dough recipe uses simple pantry ingredients and avoids unnecessary preservatives found in store-bought crusts. Whole wheat flour can be substituted for added fiber and nutrients. Olive oil provides healthy fats that support heart health, while keeping the dough moist and tender. By customizing toppings, you can create balanced pizzas with lean proteins, vegetables, and reduced cheese for a lighter meal.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Quick to prepare and cook	Crust may not be as airy as yeast dough
Requires simple pantry ingredients	Best eaten fresh for best texture
Versatile with toppings and sauces	Not ideal for thick crust lovers
Kid-friendly and fun to make together	Less traditional flavor than yeast-based dough

Conclusion

This quick pizza dough recipe is the perfect choice when time is short but pizza cravings are strong. With just a handful of ingredients and under an hour, you’ll have a homemade crust ready to be topped and baked. It’s reliable, delicious, and versatile enough for all your favorite toppings.

Whether you’re making a simple cheese pizza for the kids or a gourmet creation with fresh veggies and herbs, this dough delivers satisfying results every time. Keep it in your back pocket for weeknights, parties, or last-minute gatherings—you’ll never need to rely on store-bought crust again.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes! Bread flour gives a slightly chewier crust, which many pizza lovers prefer.

Q2: Can I make this dough without yeast?
You can substitute with baking powder for a flatbread-style crust, but it won’t have the same flavor or texture as yeast dough.

Q3: How do I prevent soggy pizza crust?
Pre-bake the rolled-out crust for 5 minutes before adding sauce and toppings. This creates a barrier and keeps the base crisp.