The Best Homemade Margherita Pizza Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Margherita pizza recipe is perfect for anyone looking to make a classic favorite at home, using simple, fresh ingredients. It’s easy to follow and guarantees a delicious result every time.
• Fresh and Flavorful: With ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, every bite bursts with authentic Italian taste.
• Quick and Easy: You don’t need to be a pro to make this pizza—it’s ready in under 30 minutes!
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or tweak the recipe to make it your own.
Recipe
Margherita pizza is a classic Italian dish known for its simplicity and fresh flavors. This homemade version captures the essence of traditional Margherita pizza with a crispy crust, tangy tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil.
Ingredients:
- 1 ball of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce (preferably San Marzano)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C) with a pizza stone or baking sheet inside.
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle.
- Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
- Arrange the mozzarella slices on top of the sauce.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, drizzle with olive oil, and top with fresh basil leaves.
- Slice and serve immediately.
Notes:
- For a crispier crust, preheat the pizza stone for at least 30 minutes.
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Equipment:
- Pizza stone or baking sheet
- Rolling pin
- Pizza peel (optional)
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 12 minutes
Cuisine: Italian
Serving: 2–4 people
Nutrition
Nutritional values per serving of Margherita Pizza:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 285 |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 20mg |
| Sodium | 640mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 35g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 3g |
| Protein | 12g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade Margherita pizza with a fresh salad for a balanced meal—it adds crunch and brightness to every bite. Warm, buttery garlic bread is another favorite of mine, and it’s perfect for dipping into leftover pizza sauce. These combos make dinner feel complete and satisfying every time.
Fresh Salad Pairing
When I’m serving up a homemade Margherita pizza, I love to add a fresh salad to the mix—it just feels right. A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette balances the pizza’s richness. Sometimes I’ll toss in some shaved Parmesan or toasted pine nuts for extra crunch. The crisp, cool veggies contrast perfectly with the warm, cheesy pizza, making each bite more satisfying. It’s an easy way to round out the meal without overpowering the flavors. Plus, it makes me feel like I’m dining at a cozy Italian trattoria, right at home.
Garlic Bread Combo
Though a Margherita pizza is already a crowd-pleaser, adding garlic bread into the mix takes the meal to the next level. I love serving warm, buttery garlic bread alongside pizza—it’s the perfect companion for dipping into leftover marinara or enjoying on its own. When I make it, I use fresh garlic, parsley, and a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra flavor. It’s easy to prepare while the pizza bakes, and the smell alone will have everyone gathering around the table. Pairing these two creates a meal that’s hearty, satisfying, and sure to leave everyone asking for seconds.
