Easy Margherita Pizza
Ingredients
Directions / Instructions
Why You'll Love This Easy Margherita Pizza
This Easy Margherita Pizza proves that simple ingredients can create an incredible meal. A crisp, golden pizza crust is topped with bright tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
The combination of tomato, mozzarella, and basil gives this pizza its classic Italian flavor while keeping the recipe simple enough for a weeknight pizza night. Serve it fresh from the oven with a crisp salad for an easy and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
For the Pizza Dough
- 1 pound pizza dough, homemade or store-bought
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cornmeal or flour, for the baking surface
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or crushed San Marzano tomatoes
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone or steel, place it in the oven while it preheats for at least 30 minutes. A hot baking surface helps create a crisp crust.
2. Prepare the Dough
Allow the pizza dough to come to room temperature for about 20 to 30 minutes. Lightly flour a work surface and stretch or roll the dough into a 12-inch round.
3. Transfer the Dough
Place the dough on a piece of parchment paper or a lightly floured pizza peel. Sprinkle the surface lightly with cornmeal or flour to help prevent sticking.
4. Add the Sauce
Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges for the crust.
5. Add the Cheese
Arrange the fresh mozzarella slices evenly over the sauce. Sprinkle with Parmesan and add a small amount of black pepper and red pepper flakes if desired.
6. Bake
Transfer the pizza to the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 14 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
7. Add Fresh Basil
Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately scatter fresh basil leaves over the top. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil.
8. Slice and Serve
Let the pizza rest for 2 to 3 minutes, then slice and serve hot.
Expert Tips
Preheat your pizza stone or baking steel thoroughly for the crispiest crust. Don't overload the pizza with sauce or cheese because excess moisture can make the crust soggy. Fresh mozzarella contains more moisture than low-moisture mozzarella, so pat it dry with paper towels before using. Add fresh basil after baking to preserve its bright flavor and color.
Storage
Store leftover pizza in an airtight container or wrap individual slices and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot oven, skillet, or air fryer to restore the crisp crust. Avoid microwaving when possible because it can make the crust soft.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Margherita Pizza with a simple green salad, Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, antipasto, garlic bread, or a bowl of tomato soup. Finish with additional basil, Parmesan, crushed red pepper, or a drizzle of olive oil.
Recipe Variations
Add sliced cherry tomatoes, roasted garlic, fresh arugula, olives, mushrooms, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. For extra heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili peppers. You can also use burrata instead of mozzarella for an especially creamy finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
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