Classic Margherita Pizza Recipe

Nothing brings one back to their roots quite like a Margherita Pizza. This classic Neapolitan dish features a crispy crust, tangy tomato sauce, and fresh mozzarella, making it a household staple. Each bite evokes memories of simpler times spent sharing pizza with loved ones. Now, this beloved dish continues to be made and enjoyed, savoring…
A classic Margherita pizza topped with fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil leaves sits on a white plate. Beside the plate, a small glass jug of olive oil rests on the pristine white surface.
A classic Margherita pizza topped with fresh basil, sliced tomatoes, and mozzarella balls on a white plate. Olive oil, extra mozzarella, a fork, and a napkin are on the table.

Classic Margherita Pizza Recipe

A man in an apron smiling in a kitchen.Carlos Gomez
Classic Neapolitan pizza with a crispy crust, topped with tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Meal Type Dinner
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 746 kcal
Difficulty Medium
Ingredient Cost $10
Shopping Cost$8

Equipment

  • Pizza stone or baking sheet
  • Rolling Pin
  • Mixing Bowl

Ingredients
 
 

  • 1 ½ cups water warm
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 2 cups fresh mozzarella sliced
  • basil leaves Fresh
  • Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling

Instructions
 

  • In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
    1 1/2 cups water, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 packet active dry yeast
  • Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
    4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon salt, 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
  • Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat.
  • Divide the dough into two portions. Roll out each portion on a floured surface to form a pizza base.
  • Transfer the dough to a pizza stone or baking sheet. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the base, then top with slices of fresh mozzarella.
    2 cups fresh mozzarella, 1 cup tomato sauce
  • Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the crust is crispy and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
  • Remove from the oven and top with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Serve hot.
    basil leaves, Extra virgin olive oil

Notes

For an extra crispy crust, bake the pizza on a preheated pizza stone.
Use high-quality mozzarella and fresh basil for the best flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 746kcalCarbohydrates: 107gProtein: 28gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 47mgSodium: 1276mgPotassium: 395mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 680IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 331mgIron: 7mg
Keyword Classic Pizza, Italian Cuisine, Margherita Pizza, Neapolitan Pizza

Ingredient Costs: Cost of Recipe by Ingredient Measurements

Shopping Costs: Cost of Recipe with Brand New Ingredient Purchases

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Nothing brings one back to their roots quite like a Margherita Pizza. This classic Neapolitan dish features a crispy crust, tangy tomato sauce, and fresh mozzarella, making it a household staple. Each bite evokes memories of simpler times spent sharing pizza with loved ones. Now, this beloved dish continues to be made and enjoyed, savoring the taste of home.

A plate of grilled tofu with cherry tomatoes, broccoli, and pine nuts, garnished with a mint leaf, on a bed of green lettuce.
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A woman in an apron smiles while using a tablet in a kitchen. Fresh vegetables, including tomatoes and lettuce, are on the counter.

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