Classic Margherita Pizza

Name: Classic Margherita Pizza
Prep time: 00:30:00
Cook time: 00:15:00
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 2 medium (12-inch) pizzas
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic; 1 cup fresh basil leaves; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1 can canned San Marzano tomatoes; 12 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 1/4 cups warm water; 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast; 1 1/2 teaspoons salt

ItalianCheeseDinnerOvenPizza DoughWeeknightLunchHerbsBaking

This classic Margherita pizza celebrates the colors of the Italian flag with its red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and green basil. With a crispy yet chewy homemade crust and minimal toppings that pack maximum flavor, this pizza embodies the essence of Italian cooking: simple, fresh ingredients prepared with care.

Prep Time

30 min

Cook Time

15 min

Serves

2 medium (12-inch) pizzas

Difficulty

easy

Recipe Assistant

Hello! I can help modify this recipe. What changes would you like to make?

Ingredients

Techniques: kneading, stretching dough, baking

Equipment Needed

Large mixing bowl
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Pizza stone or baking sheet
Pizza peel (optional)
Parchment paper
Pizza cutter

This Margherita pizza recipe breaks down the process into manageable steps, from making a perfect dough to creating a simple yet flavorful sauce. While homemade pizza might seem intimidating, this approach makes it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels.

For best results, use the highest quality ingredients you can find, especially the tomatoes and mozzarella. If you don't have time to make dough from scratch, you can substitute store-bought pizza dough and focus on the toppings and baking technique.

Important Allergy Notice: While we strive to provide accurate ingredient information, please be aware that our recipes may contain common allergens such as peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, eggs, wheat, soy, shellfish, and fish. Always check ingredient labels carefully and consult your healthcare provider if you have any food allergies before preparing any recipe from this site.

Classic Margherita Pizza

ItalianCheeseDinnerOvenPizza DoughWeeknightLunchHerbsBaking

Prep Time

30 min

Cook Time

15 min

Serves

2 medium (12-inch) pizzas

Difficulty

easy

Recipe Assistant

Hello! I can help modify this recipe. What changes would you like to make?

Ingredients

Techniques: kneading, stretching dough, baking

Equipment Needed

Large mixing bowl
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Pizza stone or baking sheet
Pizza peel (optional)
Parchment paper
Pizza cutter

Classic Margherita Pizza

Recipe Assistant

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

Step 1: The water should be warm (110°F), not hot, or it will kill the yeast.

Step 2: A wooden spoon works well for this initial mixing.

Step 3: Proper kneading develops gluten, which gives your crust its chewy texture.

Step 4: For a more flavorful dough, you can refrigerate it overnight after this step.

Step 5: Hand-crushing gives a rustic texture that's perfect for pizza sauce.

Step 6: A hot oven is crucial for a crispy crust.

Step 7: For authentic texture, try stretching the dough with your hands rather than using a rolling pin.

Step 8: Less is more with sauce - a thin layer prevents a soggy crust.

Step 9: Patting the mozzarella dry with paper towels helps prevent excess moisture on your pizza.

Step 10: Watch carefully as oven temperatures vary and pizza can go from perfect to burnt quickly.

Step 11: Adding basil after baking preserves its bright flavor and color.

Step 12: A pizza wheel makes slicing easier than a knife.

Classic Margherita Pizza

Recipe Assistant

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

Step 1: The water should be warm (110°F), not hot, or it will kill the yeast.

Step 2: A wooden spoon works well for this initial mixing.

Step 3: Proper kneading develops gluten, which gives your crust its chewy texture.

Step 4: For a more flavorful dough, you can refrigerate it overnight after this step.

Step 5: Hand-crushing gives a rustic texture that's perfect for pizza sauce.

Step 6: A hot oven is crucial for a crispy crust.

Step 7: For authentic texture, try stretching the dough with your hands rather than using a rolling pin.

Step 8: Less is more with sauce - a thin layer prevents a soggy crust.

Step 9: Patting the mozzarella dry with paper towels helps prevent excess moisture on your pizza.

Step 10: Watch carefully as oven temperatures vary and pizza can go from perfect to burnt quickly.

Step 11: Adding basil after baking preserves its bright flavor and color.

Step 12: A pizza wheel makes slicing easier than a knife.