Thick Crust Pizza Dough

Prep: 70 min Cook: 15 min Cuisine: Italian

Thick crust pizza dough with a soft interior and crispy exterior, perfect for hearty homemade pizzas. Suitable for casual gatherings and pizza lovers alike.

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Ingredients

  • 2 pkg. powdered yeast
  • 2/3 c. plus 4 Tbsp. warm water
  • 3 c. flour (all-purpose)
  • 1/2 c. Crisco oil
  • 1 tsp. salt

Instructions

  1. Dissolve yeast in warm water.
  2. Mix all ingredients together until combined.
  3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes.
  4. Put dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover.
  5. Let rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
  6. Bake the pizza at 425°F for 15 to 20 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, use warm water between 100°F to 110°F when dissolving the yeast, as this helps activate it effectively. If you don’t have Crisco oil, substitute with olive oil for a richer flavor. Kneading the dough well develops gluten, giving your crust a perfect chewy texture. Letting the dough rise in a warm place ensures a better rise.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the pizza with a side of Insalata Di Fagiolini (String Bean Salad) for a refreshing contrast. Consider pairing it with Bettie Mccright'S Italian Family Spaghetti Sauce for a complete Italian meal experience. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauces, such as garlic butter or marinara, to enhance the flavor.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover pizza dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the leftover pizza for about 10 minutes or until heated through. For a crispier crust, you can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Thick Crust Pizza Dough contains roughly 655 calories, with 19g protein, 137g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (46% of the Daily Value) and protein (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 490mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).

655 kcal 33% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 18.6g 37% DV
Total Fat 1.8g 2% DV
Carbs 137.4g 50% DV
Fiber 4.9g 17% DV
Sugar 0.5g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 490.1mg 21% DV
Potassium 192.7mg 4% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Calcium 37.3mg 3% DV
Iron 8.4mg 46% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Wheat/Gluten

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 freeze the pizza dough?

Yes, you can freeze the pizza dough. After kneading, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and allow it to rise before baking.

How can I make the crust crispier?

To achieve a crispier crust, preheat your pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven before placing the dough on it. Additionally, consider brushing the crust with olive oil before baking, as this helps create a golden, crispy texture.

What toppings go well with this thick crust pizza?

This thick crust pizza is versatile and pairs well with a variety of toppings. Classic options include pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, and bell peppers. For a unique twist, try topping with roasted vegetables or a drizzle of pesto, which complements the dough beautifully.

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).

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