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Homemade Pizza With The Easiest Crust Recipe: Foolproof Rustic Dough

This rustic pizza dough requires just 5 basic ingredients and minimal effort for restaurant-quality pizza at home. Perfect for classic Margherita or creative combinations with a foolproof method that yields golden, crispy crust.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 285

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon sugar (helps yeast activate)

Method
 

Instructions
  1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and optional sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should spring back when gently poked.
  4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
  5. Punch down the dough and divide if desired. Roll out on a floured surface to your preferred thickness. Transfer to a pizza stone or baking sheet, add your favorite toppings.
  6. Bake at 475°F (245°C) for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Notes

For a crispier crust, preheat your pizza stone. Don't overload with toppings. Let dough rest 10 minutes after shaping. Freeze extra dough balls for quick pizza nights.