The best Margherita Pizza Recipe

ByAchraf Debbouz

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Margherita Pizza is the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. With its crisp crust, fresh tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil, every bite bursts with authentic Italian flavors. The pizza is light yet satisfying, making it an ideal meal for any occasion.

Classic Margherita Pizza Recipe
Print

Classic Margherita Pizza Recipe

Course: Main CourseCuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Easy
Servings

1

large pizza (8 slices)
Prep time

18

minutes
Cooking time

12

minutes
Calories

200

kcal

Ingredients

  • For the Dough:

  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)

  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon sugar

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • For the Sauce:

  • 1 cup canned San Marzano tomatoes (crushed)

  • 1 clove garlic (minced)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • For the Toppings:

  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese (sliced)

  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  • Prepare the Dough:
    * In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy (this means the yeast is activated).
    * In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until the dough comes together.
    * Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour.
    * Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
  • Prepare the Sauce:
    * In a bowl, mix the crushed San Marzano tomatoes with minced garlic and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
    * Set aside to let the flavors meld while the dough rises.
  • Preheat the Oven:
    * Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while preheating for an extra crispy crust.
  • Shape the Pizza:
    *Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into a 12-inch circle for a thin crust (or thicker if preferred).
    *Transfer the dough to a pizza peel (if using a stone) or a lightly oiled baking sheet.
  • Assemble the Pizza:
    * Spread an even layer of the tomato sauce over the dough, leaving about a 1/2-inch border for the crust.
    * Arrange the fresh mozzarella slices evenly over the sauce.
    * Drizzle with olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  • Bake the Pizza:
    * Slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
  • Add Fresh Basil & Serve:
    * Once out of the oven, immediately top the pizza with fresh basil leaves.
    * Let the pizza cool for a minute or two before slicing. Drizzle with a bit more olive oil for added flavor.

Tipps:

  • * For an extra crispy crust, you can pre-bake the dough for 2-3 minutes before adding the toppings.
    * Use fresh mozzarella and high-quality San Marzano tomatoes for the best flavor.
    * If you want to save time, store-bought pizza dough or sauce can be used, though homemade versions add that special touch.
Enjoy Your Meal

Similar Posts