Go Back
Delicious Margherita Pizza with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves.

Margherita Pizza

A classic Margherita pizza with a fluffy crust, rich tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil, embodying the essence of Italian cuisine.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 2 servings
Calories 690 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Dough

  • ½ cup olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
  • ¾ cup warm water
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

For the Toppings

  • ½ to ¾ cup pizza sauce Use tomato sauce
  • 8 ounces mozzarella cheese (fresh, sliced) Use fresh mozzarella for best flavor
  • ¼ cup basil leaves (fresh) Fresh basil is essential
  • hot honey Optional for serving

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a large bowl, combine yeast and warm water. Whisk until combined then allow to sit for 2 minutes.
  • Add in the salt, olive oil, garlic powder, and sugar. Mix and then add in the flour.
  • Use a spatula to combine the ingredients until no visible flour is left and the dough is sticky.
  • Transfer the dough to a coated bowl with olive oil. Cover with plastic wrap or a tea towel and allow to rise until doubled (about 1 hour).
  • Once the dough has doubled, knead it on a well-floured surface until a smooth ball forms, then let it rest under a tea towel for 5-10 minutes.

Baking

  • Preheat the oven to 500 degrees F and place a pizza stone inside to preheat.
  • Using light pinching motions, work out the dough into a pizza shape (about 10-12 inches across).
  • Remove the pizza stone from the oven and place your dough on it. Spoon about ½ cup of pizza sauce on the dough and spread it evenly.
  • Arrange the sliced mozzarella on top of the pizza.
  • Return the pizza stone and pizza to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bottom is golden.
  • Remove pizza from the oven and top with fresh basil, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt. Slice and serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, drizzle with olive oil after baking and serve with a side salad. Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Keyword Cooking, Homemade Pizza, Italian Cuisine, Margherita Pizza, Pizza Recipe