This sourdough discard pizza dough recipe creates a chewy, flavorful crust with crisp edges and the perfect homemade texture. It’s an easy way to use up extra sourdough starter while making delicious pizzas for weeknight dinners or pizza night gatherings.
182gramswarm water (3/4 cup)- warmed to between 105-110 degrees F
345gramssourdough discard (1.5 cups)
28gramsolive oil (2 tablespoons)
7gramskosher salt (1 teaspoon)
343gramsbread flour (4 cups)
Instructions
Activate the yeast. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the yeast, sugar, and warm water (105–110°F). Give it a quick stir with a spatula, then let it sit for 10–15 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy and bubbly. This means the yeast is active and ready to use.9 grams active dry yeast (1 tablespoon), 8 grams granulated sugar (2 teaspoons), 182 grams warm water (3/4 cup)
Add olive oil and sourdough discard. Pour in the olive oil and sourdough discard, then mix again until everything is well combined and smooth.28 grams olive oil (2 tablespoons), 345 grams sourdough discard (1.5 cups)
Add flour to reach the desired consistency. Begin by adding about half of the bread flour along with the kosher salt to the mixer. Mix on low speed, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl. Gradually add the remaining flour until the dough comes together. It should be slightly tacky, but soft, smooth, and easy to handle.343 grams bread flour (4 cups), 7 grams kosher salt (1 teaspoon)
Let the dough rise. Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil, then remove the dough from the mixer and shape it into a smooth ball. Place it in the bowl, smooth side up, and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Set it in a warm spot and let it rise until doubled in size. Timing can vary depending on your kitchen temperature and environment.
Use dough for pizza crusts. Once the dough has risen, divide it into portions and shape it into your desired pizza bases. This recipe yields about three medium-sized pizzas, perfect for customizing with your favorite toppings.
Prepare for baking. Transfer the dough to prepared pans or pizza stones, then gently stretch it out with your hands or use a rolling pin to shape it evenly. Add your favorite pizza sauce, cheese, and toppings before baking.
Bake pizza. Preheat the oven to 500°F (or use a grill) and bake the pizzas until fully cooked, with the bottoms lightly browned and the tops a deep golden color. Baking time will vary depending on your oven or grill, so keep an eye on them as they finish.
Notes
If you’re looking at this recipe, you probably already have a sourdough starter. But if not, you can follow my simple instructions in my Sourdough Starter Basics post.
Want to make this dough ahead of time? Lightly drizzle the dough with olive oil, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to use it. When you’re ready to bake, simply let it come to room temperature before rolling it out for an easy, stress-free pizza night.
Head to our Best Pizza Toppings for plenty of ideas for sauces and toppings to make the best pizza!