Nothing says Italian comfort food like a Margherita pizza recipe. With its vibrant trio of fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil atop a crispy crust, this classic dish is a timeless favorite. Whether you’re hosting a pizza night or craving a taste of Italy, this Margherita pizza recipe is simple, authentic, and ready in under an hour. In this guide, we’ll share a step-by-step recipe, expert tips, and creative twists to make your pizza unforgettable.

What Is a Margherita Pizza?

A Margherita pizza is a Neapolitan classic, featuring a thin crust topped with tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. Named after Queen Margherita of Savoy, its red, white, and green colors reflect the Italian flag. It’s all about simplicity and quality ingredients.

Ingredients

To make one 12-inch pizza, you’ll need:

  • For the Dough:
    • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or 00 flour for authenticity)
    • 1 tsp active dry yeast
    • ½ tsp salt
    • ½ tsp sugar
    • ¾ cup warm water (110°F)
    • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • For the Toppings:
    • ½ cup canned San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
    • 1 cup fresh mozzarella (preferably mozzarella di bufala), sliced or torn
    • 8-10 fresh basil leaves
    • 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
    • Pinch of salt and pepper

Pro Tip: Invest in high-quality San Marzano tomatoes and fresh mozzarella for authentic flavor. If you’re short on time, use store-bought dough.

Step-by-Step:

  1. Prepare the Dough:
    • In a bowl, mix yeast, sugar, and warm water. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
    • Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
    • Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled.
  2. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 475°F (245°C) with a pizza stone or baking sheet inside for at least 45 minutes.
  3. Shape the Dough: On a floured surface, roll or stretch the dough into a 12-inch circle.
  4. Add Toppings: Spread crushed tomatoes evenly, leaving a ½-inch border. Add mozzarella slices, basil leaves, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  5. Bake: Slide the pizza onto the hot stone or sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
  6. Serve: Let cool for 2 minutes, slice, and enjoy!

Yield: One 12-inch pizza
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour for dough rising)
Cook Time: 12 minutes

Tips for the Ultimate Pizza Recipe

Elevate your pizza recipe with these expert tips:

  • Use a Pizza Stone: It ensures a crispy, evenly cooked crust.
  • Don’t Overload Toppings: Keep it light to let the ingredients shine.
  • Fresh Basil Last: Add some basil after baking to preserve its flavor.
  • Experiment with Flour: Try 00 flour for a softer, chewier crust.

For more dough-making tips, check out Serious Eats pizza dough guide.

Creative Twists

  • Spicy Margherita: Drizzle with chili-infused olive oil.
  • Veggie Boost: Add thin slices of zucchini or cherry tomatoes.
  • Herb Infusion: Mix in oregano or thyme with the basil.
  • Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the dough.

Serving Suggestions

Make your pizza night unforgettable with these ideas:

  • Appetizer Pairing: Serve with a Caprese salad or bruschetta.
  • Wine Match: Pair with a light Chianti or Pinot Grigio.
  • Family Style: Set up a topping bar for kids to customize their slices.
  • Dessert: Finish with gelato or tiramisu for an Italian feast.

Conclusion

This Margherita pizza recipe brings the taste of Italy to your kitchen with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Whether you’re a beginner or a pizza pro, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it tonight and share your results in the comments! What’s your secret to the perfect pizza crust?

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