Prebaked Pizza Crust

1. 1

   Combine the flour, salt and yeast in a large bowl.

2. 2

   Stir in 2 cups warm water (about 105 degrees F) and 2 tablespoons olive oil with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.

3. 3

   Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place until the dough rises slightly, about 1 hour.

4. 4

   Using lightly floured hands, transfer the dough to a generously floured surface and knead several times until it just starts becoming smooth and elastic, about 1 minute (do not over-knead).

5. 5

   Transfer to a lightly oiled large bowl.

6. 6

   Tightly cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place until almost doubled in size, about 1 hour.

7. 7

   Meanwhile, place a pizza stone or inverted rimmed baking sheet on the lower oven rack and preheat to 500 degrees F.

8. 8

   Brush two rimmed 13-by-18-inch baking sheets (not nonstick) with 3 tablespoons olive oil each.

9. 9

   Place one piece of dough on each baking sheet.

10. 10

    Prepare the pizzas one at a time: Cover the dough with plastic wrap, then press firmly with your hands to fill the baking

11. 11

    Remove the plastic wrap and transfer the baking sheet to the hot pizza stone.

12. 12

    Bake until the crust starts browning, about 10 minutes.

13. 13

    Remove from the oven and carefully loosen the crust from the pan using a spatula.

14. 14

    Top and bake (see recipe indexfor ideas), or let cool, lightly wrap in plastic and set aside up to 8 hours.

15. 15

    Photograph by David Malosh

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.