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Quick & Easy Sourdough Discard Pizza Dough for a Chewy and Crispy Crust

Close-up of a slice showing the airy, fluffy interior crust of sourdough discard pizza dough topped with cheese.

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Use your sourdough starter leftovers to make this simple, no-waste sourdough discard pizza dough. This recipe creates a flavorful, chewy, and crispy crust perfect for weeknight sourdough pizza without a long rise time.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed starter)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon instant yeast (optional, for extra lift)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup warm water (or slightly more, as needed)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the sourdough discard, flour, instant yeast (if using), salt, and olive oil.
  2. Gradually add the warm water, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. If the dough seems too dry, add water one tablespoon at a time.
  3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5 to 7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. This dough will be slightly stickier than standard dough.
  4. Divide the dough in half for two medium pizzas, or use the whole batch for one large pizza. Shape each piece into a ball.
  5. Let the dough rest, covered with a damp cloth, for at least 15 minutes while you prepare your toppings. This rest period helps relax the gluten.
  6. Preheat your oven and pizza stone (if using) to 475°F (245°C).
  7. On a lightly floured surface or parchment paper, stretch or roll the dough to your desired thickness. For a crispier crust, roll it thinner.
  8. Transfer the dough to a pizza peel or baking sheet. Add your sauce and toppings.
  9. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Notes

  • For a tangier flavor, you can let the mixed dough rest in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before shaping.
  • If you skip the instant yeast, the dough will still work but may need a slightly longer rest time before stretching.
  • Use high heat when baking to achieve the best crispy sourdough discard pizza crust texture.

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