Variations on Pizza Crust at Home

Usually when we think of pizza, we’re very concerned with the toppings, but what about the crust? There are a lot of interesting canvases for your favorite toppings. There are a few traditional crusts to consider, but there are also many different kinds of crust alternatives for simple snacks to succulent dinners to impress friends and family. Instead of ordering in a pie, try making pizzas on your own at home trying our some of these delicious crust ideas.

When you’re talking about crust in most pizzeria restaurants, you’re talking about the trio of classics: hand tossed, thin crust, and deep dish. Hand tossed at home does require you to have the basic skills of hand tossing, but it’s easy enough to learn to do yourself. When most people think of crust, they think hand tossed which is not too thin or thick. It’s usually just right! Thin crust can create that great crunch some people crave. This requires you to roll out the dough so that it bakes fast in the oven. Deep dish is not so much a technique of making crust so much that it requires a special pan in order for you to pile on the toppings. Each of these is easy to order and you can learn how to make them at home. 

Another twist of pizza crust is grilling your pie instead of baking it in an oven. It gives a unique flavor to both the crust and to the toppings. This is easy enough to do on your own home grill. This also requires you to bake the crust ahead of time in an oven. You can either buy prebaked crusts or flatbread if you prefer a crispy crust before putting on the toppings and grilling it until finished. Naan, an Indian flatbread, is also a great crust alternative. This is a great way for friends and family to concoct their own creations. Make it an event for a weekend night and enjoy a different way to enjoy.

Pizzas can basically be made on any type of bread. For lunch or a hearty snack, bagels and English muffins also make a great alternative to a large pizza crust. These options are great when you’re looking to provide a single serving or several small servings. There are even some flat sandwich breads that make excellent crusts for small pizzas. 

Instead of ordering in or sticking a frozen pie in the oven, try making pizza on your own. If you feel adventurous, try a wide range of crust ideas for a new twist. Toppings may be the most direct way to individualize your pie, but different crusts can offer different flavors, less calories, and more fun!