Making pizza at home can be a rewarding experience. The aroma filling your kitchen, the joy of customizing toppings, and the satisfaction of biting into a homemade slice are hard to beat. However, let’s be honest, sometimes time is short, or the thought of making dough from scratch seems a bit daunting. That’s where ready-made dough comes in. But is it a viable option? Can you truly create a delicious pizza using pre-made dough? The answer, thankfully, is a resounding yes! This article will delve into the world of ready-made pizza dough, exploring its pros and cons, different types available, tips for using it effectively, and even some recipes to get you started.
The Appeal of Ready-Made Pizza Dough
The primary advantage of ready-made pizza dough is, without a doubt, its convenience. It eliminates the time-consuming process of gathering ingredients, measuring, mixing, kneading, and waiting for the dough to rise. For busy individuals or those new to baking, this can be a game-changer. It allows you to enjoy homemade pizza without the extensive effort typically involved. Ready-made dough offers consistency, a significant benefit for those who may not yet have mastered the art of dough making. You can expect a fairly similar result each time, making it easier to experiment with toppings and baking techniques. This consistency can also be helpful when entertaining guests, as you can be confident in the quality of your pizza.
Types of Ready-Made Pizza Dough Available
The ready-made pizza dough market is diverse, offering a range of options to suit different preferences and dietary needs. Understanding the various types available is crucial to selecting the best one for your desired outcome.
Refrigerated Dough
Refrigerated dough is perhaps the most common type of ready-made pizza dough. It is typically found in the refrigerated section of grocery stores, often near the dairy products or pre-made meals. This type of dough is usually made with all-purpose flour, yeast, water, oil, and salt. It has a relatively short shelf life and requires refrigeration at all times. Refrigerated dough is known for its convenience and ease of use. It generally requires minimal preparation and bakes into a soft, chewy crust. It’s versatile and works well for various pizza styles, from thin-crust to deep-dish.
Frozen Dough
Frozen pizza dough offers a longer shelf life than refrigerated dough. It can be stored in the freezer for several months, making it a convenient option for those who want to have dough on hand for impromptu pizza nights. Frozen dough requires thawing before use, which can take several hours in the refrigerator or a shorter time at room temperature. Once thawed, it behaves similarly to refrigerated dough and can be stretched and shaped as desired. Some frozen dough brands offer different flavors or styles, such as whole wheat or gluten-free.
Canned Dough
Canned pizza dough is another convenient option, often found in the same aisle as baking supplies. It is typically packaged in a pressurized can, which needs to be opened carefully to avoid any sudden bursts. Canned dough is known for its speed and ease of use, but it may not always deliver the same quality as refrigerated or frozen dough. The texture can sometimes be a bit denser or more processed-tasting. However, it’s a good option when you’re really pressed for time.
Specialty Dough (Gluten-Free, Whole Wheat, etc.)
In addition to the standard options, there are also specialty ready-made pizza doughs available to cater to specific dietary needs and preferences. These include gluten-free dough, whole wheat dough, and even vegan dough. Gluten-free dough is made with alternative flours, such as rice flour, tapioca starch, or almond flour. Whole wheat dough incorporates whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and higher fiber content. These specialty doughs offer a way to enjoy pizza without compromising your dietary restrictions or preferences.
Tips for Using Ready-Made Pizza Dough Effectively
While ready-made dough offers convenience, there are certain techniques to ensure a delicious and satisfying pizza. Proper handling, preparation, and baking are crucial to maximizing the potential of your dough. Here are some tips to help you succeed:
Thawing and Proofing (If Applicable)
If using frozen dough, thawing it properly is essential. The best method is to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the dough to thaw slowly and evenly, preventing it from becoming sticky or overly soft. If you need to thaw it quickly, you can place it in a sealed bag in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. Once thawed, or if using refrigerated dough, allow the dough to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour before stretching. This will make it more pliable and easier to work with. Letting the dough proof (rise slightly) at room temperature enhances its texture and flavor.
Stretching and Shaping the Dough
When stretching the dough, avoid using a rolling pin, as this can compress the dough and result in a tough crust. Instead, gently stretch the dough with your hands, starting from the center and working your way outwards. You can also use the “toss” method, where you rotate the dough in the air to stretch it. However, this requires practice and can be messy! Aim for a consistent thickness, avoiding overly thin spots that might tear during baking.
Preparing the Baking Surface
The baking surface you use can significantly impact the final result. A pizza stone is ideal for creating a crispy crust, as it retains heat and distributes it evenly. If you don’t have a pizza stone, a baking sheet will work just fine. Preheat the pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven for at least 30 minutes before baking. This will ensure that the crust cooks evenly and becomes nice and crispy. You can also use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the pizza from sticking.
Topping the Pizza
When adding toppings, be careful not to overload the pizza. Too many toppings can make the crust soggy and prevent it from cooking properly. Start with a thin layer of sauce, followed by cheese, and then your desired toppings. Choose high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Consider using fresh herbs, ripe tomatoes, and flavorful cheeses.
Baking Time and Temperature
Bake the pizza in a preheated oven at a high temperature, typically between 450°F and 500°F (232°C and 260°C). The exact baking time will depend on the thickness of the crust and the type of oven you are using. Generally, it will take about 12-15 minutes for the crust to become golden brown and the cheese to melt and bubble. Keep a close eye on the pizza while it’s baking to prevent it from burning. If the crust is browning too quickly, you can lower the oven temperature slightly.
Letting it Rest
Once the pizza is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and prevents it from sliding off the pizza. Cooling also makes it easier to handle and prevents you from burning your mouth!
Enhancing Ready-Made Dough: Simple Tricks
While ready-made dough is convenient on its own, there are ways to elevate its flavor and texture.
Adding Flavor to the Dough
Consider brushing the crust with garlic-infused olive oil before adding toppings. This adds a delicious layer of flavor and helps the crust crisp up nicely. You can also sprinkle dried herbs, such as oregano, basil, or rosemary, onto the dough before baking. Adding a pinch of salt to the dough before stretching can also enhance its flavor.
Improving Texture
For a crispier crust, try par-baking the dough before adding toppings. Par-baking involves baking the dough for a few minutes until it is slightly firm but not fully cooked. This helps to prevent the crust from becoming soggy when you add the toppings. You can also use a pizza stone or baking steel, as mentioned earlier, to improve the crust’s crispness.
Experimenting with Flour
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try adding a small amount of semolina flour or cornmeal to the bottom of the pizza before baking. This will give the crust a slightly gritty texture and a more rustic flavor.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful preparation, you might encounter some common problems when using ready-made pizza dough. Here are some solutions:
Dough is Too Sticky
If the dough is too sticky to handle, lightly dust your hands and the work surface with flour. Avoid adding too much flour, as this can make the dough tough.
Dough Tears Easily
If the dough tears easily when stretching, it may not have been allowed to come to room temperature sufficiently. Give it more time to rest and relax before stretching.
Crust is Soggy
A soggy crust is often caused by overloading the pizza with toppings. Use a lighter hand when adding toppings, and consider par-baking the dough.
Crust is Too Tough
A tough crust can be caused by overworking the dough or using a rolling pin to stretch it. Gently stretch the dough with your hands, and avoid adding too much flour.
Recipes Using Ready-Made Pizza Dough
Here are a couple of simple recipes to get you started with ready-made pizza dough:
Classic Margherita Pizza
Ingredients:
* 1 package ready-made pizza dough
* 1/2 cup tomato sauce
* 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
* Fresh basil leaves
* Olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 475°F (246°C).
2. Stretch the dough into a 12-inch circle and place it on a preheated pizza stone or baking sheet.
3. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough.
4. Arrange the mozzarella slices on top of the sauce.
5. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and top with fresh basil leaves.
8. Drizzle with olive oil and slice.
Pepperoni and Mushroom Pizza
Ingredients:
* 1 package ready-made pizza dough
* 1/2 cup pizza sauce
* 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
* 4 ounces pepperoni slices
* 4 ounces sliced mushrooms
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* Olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 475°F (246°C).
2. Stretch the dough into a 12-inch circle and place it on a preheated pizza stone or baking sheet.
3. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough.
4. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
5. Arrange the pepperoni slices and mushrooms on top of the cheese.
6. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
7. Drizzle with olive oil.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove from oven, slice, and serve.
Conclusion
Ready-made pizza dough is a fantastic option for anyone looking to enjoy homemade pizza without the hassle of making dough from scratch. With a wide variety of types available, from refrigerated to frozen to specialty options, there’s a dough to suit every preference and dietary need. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this article, you can consistently create delicious, restaurant-quality pizzas using ready-made dough. So, go ahead, experiment with different toppings and flavors, and enjoy the satisfaction of a homemade pizza made easy! Ready-made dough is a convenient gateway to creative cooking.