This classic Margherita Pizza recipe features a thin, crispy crust topped with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves. The simplicity of the ingredients allows each flavor to shine, creating a delicious and visually appealing pizza that is perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through making an authentic Margherita Pizza at home.
Appliances and Special Utensils
- Pizza stone or baking sheet
- Oven
- Rolling pin
- Pizza peel (optional, for transferring pizza to stone)
- Mixing bowl
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 ball of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 2-3 ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp dried oregano (optional)
- Cornmeal or flour (for dusting)
Instructions
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up as well.
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Prepare Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a thin circle, about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer the rolled-out dough to a pizza peel or baking sheet dusted with cornmeal or flour.
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Add Sauce: Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.
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Layer Cheese and Tomatoes: Arrange the sliced fresh mozzarella evenly over the sauce. Then, place the tomato slices on top of the cheese.
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Season and Drizzle: Sprinkle the sea salt and dried oregano (if using) over the top. Drizzle the olive oil over the pizza.
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Bake Pizza: Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated pizza stone or leave it on the baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
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Add Basil: Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately scatter fresh basil leaves on top.
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Slice and Serve: Let the pizza cool for a couple of minutes, then slice and serve. Enjoy your homemade Margherita Pizza!