Description
Classic Margherita Pizza is a traditional Italian favorite featuring a thin crust topped with simple tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of olive oil, baked until perfectly blistered and golden.
Ingredients
- 1 lb pizza dough
- 1/2 cup crushed San Marzano tomatoes
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 6–8 fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
- Roll or stretch the pizza dough into a 12-inch circle on a floured surface.
- Spread crushed tomatoes evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Arrange sliced fresh mozzarella over the sauce.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
- Transfer pizza to the hot stone or baking sheet.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from oven and immediately top with fresh basil leaves.
- Slice and serve warm.
Notes
- Use high-quality fresh mozzarella for best texture and flavor.
- A pizza stone helps achieve a crisp crust.
- Add basil after baking to preserve its freshness.
- For extra char, broil for the final 1–2 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian