Ina Garten’s Pizza Dough is a simple yet versatile recipe that serves as the perfect base for creating homemade pizzas. With a tender, chewy texture and a crisp crust, this dough is easy to make and works beautifully for various toppings, from classic Margherita to your custom creations.

What is Ina Garten Pizza Dough?

Ina Garten’s Pizza Dough is a classic yeast-based recipe that combines all-purpose flour, water, olive oil, yeast, and salt to create a soft, pliable dough. It can be made ahead, frozen, or refrigerated, making it convenient for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.

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Reasons to Try Ina Garten Pizza Dough

Easy to make: Simple ingredients and steps make it beginner-friendly.
Customizable: Works well with any pizza toppings you love.
Make ahead: Dough can be prepared in advance for convenience.
Perfect texture: Creates a crispy crust with a soft interior.
Versatile: Use it for pizzas, flatbreads, or calzones.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Pizza Dough

1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F)
2 teaspoons sugar
1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
3 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for greasing

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Pizza Dough

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Mix water, sugar, and yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar, then sprinkle the yeast on top. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Mix the dry ingredients: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the flour and salt.

Step 3: Form the Dough

Add the wet ingredients: With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour. Mix until the dough starts to come together.
Knead the dough: Increase the mixer speed to medium and knead for about 5 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If kneading by hand, work the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Prepare a bowl: Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil.
Rest the dough: Form the dough into a ball, place it in the greased bowl, and cover it with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape and Use the Dough

Punch down the dough: Gently punch down the dough to release air.
Divide and shape: Divide the dough into two equal portions if making two pizzas. Roll each portion into a circle or your desired shape on a floured surface.

Step 6: Bake the Pizza

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) with a pizza stone or baking sheet inside.
Assemble and bake: Add your favorite toppings to the dough and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crisp.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Pizza Dough

Classic toppings: Tomato sauce, mozzarella, and fresh basil for a Margherita pizza.
Creative toppings: Add prosciutto, arugula, or roasted vegetables for unique flavors.
Pair with salads: A crisp Caesar or mixed green salad complements pizza beautifully.
Include dipping sauces: Serve with garlic butter, ranch, or marinara on the side.
Enjoy with wine: Pair with a glass of red wine or a cold beer for the ultimate experience.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Pizza Dough

Use warm water: Water that’s too hot can kill the yeast, so aim for 110°F.
Let it rise properly: Give the dough enough time to double in size for the best texture.
Preheat the oven thoroughly: A hot oven ensures a crispy crust.
Dust the surface: Use flour or cornmeal to prevent sticking when rolling the dough.
Don’t overload with toppings: Too many toppings can make the crust soggy.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Pizza Dough

Herb-infused dough: Add dried oregano, garlic powder, or rosemary to the dough for extra flavor.
Whole wheat option: Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste.
Stuffed crust: Fold in cheese around the edges for a stuffed crust pizza.
Gluten-free alternative: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make a gluten-free version.
Flatbread pizzas: Roll the dough thinner for crispy flatbread-style pizzas.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Pizza Dough

Refrigerate the dough: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temperature before using.
Freeze for later: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.

FAQs

Can I make Ina Garten pizza dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Let refrigerated dough come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

What is the best way to freeze pizza dough?

Divide the dough into individual portions, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight and bring it to room temperature before using.

Can I use whole wheat flour in this pizza dough recipe?

Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and a slightly denser texture.

How can I make the pizza crust crispier?

To achieve a crispier crust, preheat a pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven before adding the pizza. Baking at a high temperature (500°F) also helps create a crispy crust.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Pizza Dough is a versatile and easy-to-make recipe that’s perfect for creating homemade pizzas.

Try it today and enjoy a delicious, restaurant-quality pizza at home!

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