Store-bought pizza dough is a convenient shortcut for homemade pizza, but its potential goes far beyond a basic pie. With a little creativity, you can turn it into gourmet-style meals, snacks, and even desserts. Here are ten clever tricks to transform store-bought pizza dough into something extraordinary.
1. Garlic Knot Bites
Turn pizza dough into soft, buttery garlic knots that are perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
How to Make It:
- Cut the dough into small pieces and roll them into knots.
- Bake at 200°C for 12–15 minutes.
- Toss in melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
2. Cheesy Stuffed Breadsticks
Upgrade your breadsticks by filling them with gooey cheese.
How to Make It:
- Roll out the dough and cut it into strips.
- Place a strip of mozzarella in the center, fold over the dough, and pinch the edges.
- Brush with butter, sprinkle with garlic powder, and bake at 200°C for 10–12 minutes.
3. Savory Breakfast Pastries
Use pizza dough to create easy breakfast hand pies filled with eggs, cheese, and bacon.
How to Make It:
- Roll out the dough and cut it into squares.
- Fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and cooked bacon.
- Fold into a pocket, seal the edges, and bake at 190°C for 15–18 minutes.
4. Crispy Flatbreads
Turn pizza dough into crispy, thin flatbreads that pair well with dips or charcuterie boards.
How to Make It:
- Roll out the dough very thin.
- Brush with olive oil, sprinkle with sea salt and herbs.
- Bake at 220°C for 8–10 minutes until crisp.
5. Sweet Cinnamon Rolls
Transform your pizza dough into soft, gooey cinnamon rolls for an easy dessert.
How to Make It:
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle and brush with melted butter.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar, then roll it up tightly.
- Slice into rolls and bake at 180°C for 20 minutes.
- Drizzle with icing made from powdered sugar and milk.
6. Homemade Calzones
Make individual calzones filled with your favorite ingredients.
How to Make It:
- Roll out small dough circles and fill with cheese, marinara sauce, and toppings.
- Fold over, seal the edges, and bake at 200°C for 15–20 minutes.
7. Pizza Waffles
A waffle iron gives pizza dough a crispy texture and a fun twist.
How to Make It:
- Roll out the dough, place cheese and pepperoni on one side, and fold it over.
- Press in a preheated waffle iron for 5 minutes until golden brown.
8. Baked Pretzels
With a quick baking soda bath, pizza dough can become chewy homemade pretzels.
How to Make It:
- Cut dough into strips and shape into pretzels.
- Dip in boiling water with baking soda for 30 seconds.
- Sprinkle with coarse salt and bake at 220°C for 12–15 minutes.
9. Mini Pot Pies
Use pizza dough as an easy crust for individual savory pot pies.
How to Make It:
- Press dough into muffin tins.
- Fill with a mixture of cooked chicken, vegetables, and creamy sauce.
- Cover with another layer of dough and bake at 190°C for 20 minutes.
10. Dessert Pizza
Create a sweet treat by turning pizza dough into a dessert pizza.
How to Make It:
- Roll out the dough and bake at 200°C for 10 minutes.
- Spread with Nutella or cream cheese.
- Top with fresh fruit, nuts, or chocolate chips.
Store-bought pizza dough is a versatile ingredient that can go far beyond traditional pizza. Try these creative ideas and make the most of this convenient kitchen staple!
