Transform Your Pizza Nights with Easy Homemade Dough and Save Big
- Kylee Melo
- Aug 18
- 4 min read
Pizza night is a cherished tradition in many households, bringing family and friends together over delicious slices of cheesy goodness. Have you ever thought about making your own pizza dough at home? Not only is it simpler than you might expect, but it can save you a significant amount of money over time. In this post, we’ll explore how making pizza dough at home can enhance your experience, share a quick and easy recipe, and provide tips to improve your pizza-making skills.
Reasons to Make Pizza Dough at Home
Making pizza dough at home is about more than just saving money; it’s also about enjoying the cooking process and creating something delicious. Store-bought dough can cost anywhere from $3 to $5 per package. If you buy pizza once a week, that adds up to $156 to $260 annually just for dough. Instead, you can make your own for about $5, which yields enough for 3-4 pizzas.
Moreover, homemade pizza dough allows you to tailor it to your dietary needs and taste preferences. You can opt for gluten-free flour, or add herbs and spices to make it unique. This flexibility gives you full control over your pizza, from the crust to the toppings.
Creating pizza at home can be a fun family activity. Involving kids in rolling the dough not only teaches them cooking skills but also creates wonderful memories. There’s something special about pulling a steaming, freshly baked pizza out of the oven that you made together.
The Quick Pizza Dough Recipe
It’s time to dive into a recipe that will elevate your pizza nights. This quick pizza dough is straightforward, requires just a few ingredients, and can be ready in less than an hour. Here’s what you need:
Ingredients
1/2 cup warm water (110°F)
2 teaspoons sugar or honey
2 1/4 teaspoons dry yeast (1 packet)
3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons salt
Directions
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 500°F. If you’re using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
Activate the Yeast: In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes, until it becomes foamy.
Mix in the Ingredients: Add salt and olive oil to the mixture, then gradually add flour, stirring until the dough forms a ball.
Knead the Dough: Transfer to a floured surface, kneading for about 10 minutes. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a kneading hook for about 5 minutes.
Let it Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rise for 30 minutes to an hour, until it has doubled in size.
Divide and Shape: Once risen, divide the dough into 3-4 balls, depending on your pizza size preferences.
Roll Out the Dough: Use your hands or a rolling pin to stretch the dough to about 1/4 inch thick.
Top and Bake: Add your favorite toppings and bake for 7-10 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.
Tips for Perfect Pizza Dough
While the recipe is easy, here are some tips to ensure a great pizza every time:
Make Ahead: Planning a pizza night? Create the dough up to 3 days in advance. Store it covered in the fridge. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to deepen.
Freezing for Later: Have extra dough? Freeze it! Divide the dough into balls and place each in a zip-lock freezer bag. It stays good for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight.
Use the Right Equipment: For a crispy crust, consider using a pizza stone or a perforated pizza pan. A stone absorbs moisture, while a perforated pan enhances airflow, giving you an evenly cooked pizza.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add herbs, garlic powder, or cheese to the dough for a flavor boost. This customization can make your pizza truly unique.
Simplicity is Key: While toppings can be tempting, sometimes less is more. A classic Margherita pizza with fresh tomatoes, plant-based mozzarella, and basil can be incredibly satisfying.
The Financial Benefits of Homemade Pizza Dough
The financial savings of making your pizza dough at home are impressive. If you typically spend $4 on store-bought dough, making it yourself can reduce your cost to about $1 per pizza when factoring in the cost of ingredients.
This means you can save $3 for each pizza you make at home. If you enjoy pizza once a week, that's a savings of about $156 a year!
Additionally, you can choose fresh, organic ingredients, which can often be more affordable than ordering from a restaurant, especially if you prefer high-quality toppings.
Creating Lasting Family Memories
Homemade pizza nights can become a beloved family tradition. Getting everyone involved—whether in making the dough or choosing toppings—can create lasting memories.
Consider setting up a "pizza bar" with various toppings, allowing everyone to create their unique pizza. This fun approach encourages creativity in the kitchen and makes the dining experience special.
Final Thoughts
Making pizza dough at home is easy and enjoyable, offering a rewarding experience that can save you money while bringing your family closer together. With just a few simple ingredients and techniques, you can bake pizzas that rival your favorite pizzeria.
So, why not roll up your sleeves and give it a try? Gather your ingredients and enjoy the fun of making your own pizza dough. You will be pleasantly surprised by how simple it is and how much joy it can bring, including the satisfaction of saving money.
Happy pizza making!
Don't forget to check out the recipe for some amazing pizza sauce, you won't be sorry you tried it. Click here to get the recipe.
How often do you eat pizza?
Weekly
A couple times a month
Too much to admit.