If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to make homemade pizza, then store-bought pizza dough is your answer. With the right techniques, you can use store bought pizza dough to make delicious and satisfying pizzas that the whole family will love.
Whether you prefer a classic Margherita pizza or a more elaborate one with all your favorite toppings, store-bought pizza dough is an excellent starting point for all your pizza adventures. In this article, we’ll cover some basic tips and techniques for using store-bought pizza dough so that you can whip up a homemade pizza in no time.
Preparing Store Bought Pizza Dough at Home
Preparing store-bought pizza dough at home requires a few simple steps to ensure that your pizza turns out perfect every time. Firstly, take the dough out of the fridge and allow it to rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This will make it easier to roll out and prevent the dough from shrinking back when you try to shape it. Once the dough has warmed up, dust your work surface generously with flour and transfer the dough onto it.
Using your hands or a rolling pin, stretch and shape the dough to your desired thickness. Be mindful not to over-stretch the dough, as this could cause it to tear or become too thin in some areas. Once your dough is the right thickness, you’re ready to add your toppings and bake it in the oven. Following these simple steps will help you get the most out of your store-bought pizza dough and create delicious homemade pizza.
Tips for Handling Store Bought Pizza Dough
When working with store bought pizza dough, it is important to handle it carefully to avoid tearing or stretching it too thin. Before you start shaping the dough, ensure that it has been brought to room temperature by leaving it out of the refrigerator for about an hour. This makes the dough more pliable and easier to work with.
As you begin shaping the dough, be gentle and avoid using too much force. Use your fingertips to press down on the dough, beginning at the center and working your way outwards. If the dough begins to resist and shrink back, let it rest for a few minutes and try again. You can also use a rolling pin to shape the dough, but be careful not to flatten it too much. When you are finished shaping the dough, let it rest for a few minutes before adding the toppings to allow it to rise slightly. By following these tips, you can create the perfect pizza crust using store bought pizza dough.
Creative Pizza Toppings for Store Bought Dough
When it comes to using store bought pizza dough, the possibilities are endless for creative toppings. Instead of sticking to traditional pepperoni and cheese, try experimenting with different flavor combinations to elevate your pizza game.
One idea is to use seasonal produce as toppings. For example, in the summer months, try fresh sliced tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella for a classic margherita pizza. In the fall, use butternut squash, kale, and goat cheese for a comforting and flavorful pizza. You can also try unexpected ingredients such as figs, prosciutto, and arugula for a sweet and savory twist. Don’t be afraid to mix and match flavors to create your own unique pizza masterpiece.
Making Perfect Crust with Store Bought Pizza Dough
Making perfect crust with store bought pizza dough is not as difficult as you might think. There are a few key things to keep in mind that will help you achieve a crispy and delicious crust every time. First, make sure to let the dough come to room temperature before using it. This will make it easier to work with and help it rise properly during baking.
Once the dough is at room temperature, knead it a few times to ensure it is smooth and pliable. Next, roll it out to the desired shape and size, being careful not to stretch it too thin in any one area. Finally, preheat your oven and bake the crust on a pizza stone or baking sheet for the recommended amount of time. By following these simple steps, you can easily make perfect crust with store bought pizza dough.
Baking Store Bought Pizza Dough in Different Settings
Baking store-bought pizza dough in different settings can be a fun and creative way to experiment with different tastes and textures. Depending on the oven you use, you may need to make adjustments to your baking time and temperature. For example, if you are baking in a conventional oven, preheat it to 425°F, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface, add your toppings, and bake for 10 to 15 minutes or until golden brown.
With a grill or outdoor pizza oven, you can achieve a smoky flavor that is unmatched by a conventional oven. To use a grill, preheat it on high for 10 to 15 minutes before placing the pizza dough directly on the grates. Add your toppings, close the lid, and cook for 5 to 10 minutes or until the dough is crispy and the cheese is melted. Whatever settings you choose, be sure to properly gauge the heat and time to ensure that your pizza dough comes out just right.
Storing Store Bought Pizza Dough for Later Use
It is not uncommon to purchase more pizza dough than you need for a single pizza. If you find yourself with extra store-bought pizza dough, storing it for later use is ideal.
The best way to store store-bought pizza dough is by tightly wrapping it in plastic wrap. Make sure that there is no air inside the wrap. You can also place the wrapped pizza dough inside a resealable plastic bag to prevent any air from getting in. Store the dough in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to use the dough, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight if it had been frozen. And, leave it out at room temperature until it reaches room temperature before you start to stretch it. Storage options give you the flexibility and ease of using store-bought pizza dough at any time without worrying about waste.
Variations on Classic Pizza Recipes Using Store Bought Dough
When it comes to using store bought pizza dough, the options for customization are endless. Here are a few variations on classic pizza recipes using store bought dough that you can try:
1. BBQ Chicken Pizza: Top the dough with BBQ sauce, cooked and shredded chicken, sliced red onion, and mozzarella cheese. Bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
2. Greek Pizza: Brush the dough with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder. Top with sliced tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and oregano. Bake as usual.
3. Pesto and Goat Cheese Pizza: Spread a generous amount of pesto over the dough and crumble goat cheese on top. Bake until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted.
With store bought pizza dough, you’ll have the flexibility and convenience of making pizza to your liking in minutes.
The Conclusion
Using store-bought pizza dough can be a convenient and time-saving solution for those who want to make pizza at home without the hassle of making dough from scratch. With so many variations of pizza toppings and techniques, the possibilities are endless when it comes to using store-bought pizza dough. The dough can be easily manipulated to suit personal preferences, whether it involves creating thin crispy crusts or thick and chewy ones.
In summary, store-bought pizza doughs are versatile and easy to use, making them a popular choice for home cooks. With a few simple ingredients and techniques, they can be transformed into delicious homemade pizzas. By experimenting with different toppings and cooking methods, anyone can create their own unique pizza masterpiece using store-bought pizza dough.