Family-Size Pizza Crust
Family-size pizza crust that yields a crispy, chewy base perfect for customizing with your favorite toppings, ideal for gatherings and pizza nights with loved ones.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve yeast in warm water, stirring well.
- Set aside to activate.
- Combine bread flour and salt in a 4-quart mixing bowl.
- Make a well in the center of the flour mixture.
- Add the yeast mixture and olive oil into the well.
- Stir and mix well until a rough dough forms.
- If dough seems dry and stiff, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of warm water.
- Knead the dough on a work surface for 6 to 8 minutes until smooth and soft.
- Lightly flour a large mixing bowl and the dough.
- Place the dough in the bowl.
- Cover with plastic wrap and a kitchen towel; let rise in a warm place for about 1 1/2 hours.
- Punch down the dough after rising and knead lightly.
- Divide the dough in half.
- Roll each piece into a 13 to 14-inch circle, about 1/8-inch thick.
- Place the dough rounds on pizza pans.
- Add desired toppings.
- Bake at 450°F (232°C) for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter crust, use bread flour as it has a higher protein content. If you don't have bread flour, all-purpose flour can be substituted, but the texture may differ slightly. Add herbs like oregano or basil to the dough for extra flavor. Make sure the water is warm, not hot, to properly activate the yeast. For an easy variation, try using this dough recipe for your favorite Easy Pizza Dough.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pizza with a side of Italian Chickpea Salad for a refreshing contrast. Pair it with a light Italian Lemon Ice for dessert to cleanse the palate after the meal. This family-size pizza is perfect for gatherings or movie nights, allowing everyone to customize their toppings as desired.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to keep the crust crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Family-Size Pizza Crust contains roughly 387 calories, with 30g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), protein (61% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1780mg per serving (77% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. After kneading, let it rise, then punch it down and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bring it back to room temperature before rolling out.
What toppings work well with this pizza crust?
This versatile crust pairs well with a variety of toppings. Classic choices include marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, and vegetables. For a unique twist, try using ingredients from Italian recipes like roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts.
How can I make this pizza crust vegan?
To make this pizza crust vegan, simply substitute the olive oil with any neutral plant-based oil and ensure that the toppings you choose are vegan as well. This allows you to enjoy a delicious pizza that fits your dietary preferences.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).