How to Make Pizza with Store Bought Dough – A Slice of Homemade Joy
Isn’t pizza just the perfect fit for any occasion? Whether you’re hosting a party, feeding the family on a busy weekday, or just indulging in a little self-care with your favorite movie, a homemade pizza can heighten the experience. But let’s not get intimidated by the thought of making dough from scratch when you can still get those delectable results with store bought dough. So, let’s jump right in and transform that dough into a pizza that would make any Italian grandma proud!
Choosing Your Dough
First things first, let’s talk about the base of our masterpiece – the dough. When you hit the grocery store, you’ll often find a variety of store bought dough options; from classic to whole wheat, and even gluten-free. Selecting the right one is a matter of personal taste and dietary needs. Remember to check the expiration date to ensure freshness!
Prepping Your Dough
Now, let’s get down to business. Prepping your dough is key to a good pizza. Start by bringing your store bought dough to room temperature, which usually takes about 30 minutes. This step is crucial as cold dough will resist stretching and can tear easily. As your dough warms up, preheat your oven to the highest temperature, usually around 475°F (245°C) to 500°F (260°C). A blazing hot oven will give you that crisp crust with a bubbly, melty cheese topping.
Shaping the Pizza
Once your dough is nice and pliable, sprinkle a little flour on your countertop and hands to prevent sticking. Flatten the dough ball into a disk and start pushing out from the center. Let’s keep things easy – don’t worry about getting a perfectly round shape. A rustic, hand-shaped pizza has its own charm. You can use a rolling pin if you like, but your hands are the best tools here. Aim for an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking.
Topping Your Creation
Now, let’s make it rain toppings! Begin with a good spread of sauce – not too much, though, to avoid a soggy base. Next, sprinkle on some cheese. Mozarella is a go-to, but feel free to mix cheeses for a richer taste. After your cheese layer, go wild with your favorite toppings. Think pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, or whatever tickles your taste buds. Just remember, less is more. Overloading your pizza can result in an undercooked mess.
Cooking Your Pizza
Transferring your adorably topped pizza onto a hot pizza stone or a perforated pizza pan will help achieve that coveted crispy bottom. If you don’t have a pizza stone, a well-oiled baking sheet will do the trick. Slide your pizza into the hot oven and bake it until you see the crust turning a gorgeous golden brown and the cheese bubbling with joy, which should take about 10 to 15 minutes.
Finishing Touches
Once out of the oven, let your pizza sit for a few minutes. It’s hard to wait, I know, but this allows the toppings to set and prevents you from burning your mouth. Finishing with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of fresh basil, or a dusting of parmesan can elevate your pizza game. Slice it up, and get ready for some serious “mmm’s” and “ahh’s” from your folks!
Cleaning Up
After enjoying your pizza, cleaning up is a breeze. Simply wash your pizza stone, pan, or baking sheet, wipe down the counters, and bask in the glory of your homemade pizza success – all possible with that time-saving store bought dough!
FAQs About Making Pizza With Store Bought Dough
- Q: How long should I bake my pizza with store bought dough?
- A: The baking time is typically between 10 to 15 minutes in a preheated oven set between 475°F (245°C) and 500°F (260°C). However, this can vary based on dough thickness and toppings, so keep an eye on your pizza.
- Q: Can I make pizza without a pizza stone?
- A: Absolutely! If you don’t have a pizza stone, use a perforated pizza pan or a well-oiled baking sheet for similar crispy results.
- Q: How much sauce and cheese should I use?
- A: Less is more when it comes to sauce and cheese. Start with about 1/3 cup of sauce and a generous sprinkle of cheese, but adjust for personal preference. Too much sauce can result in a soggy base, so be cautious.
- Q: What’s the best way to store leftover pizza?
- A: Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container or wrapped in foil and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Q: Can store bought dough be frozen for later use?
- A: Yes, if you’re not ready to use your dough right away, you can freeze it. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before bringing it to room temperature for use.