Classic Margherita Pizza Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like home with every bite. The crispy yet tender crust, the sweet tang of tomato sauce, and the creamy melt of mozzarella finished with fragrant basil make it timeless. In our kitchens, this pizza is more than food; it’s a memory of Naples, a reminder of Sunday nights, and a dish that never fails to bring the family together. If you’ve ever wondered how to make your own pizza at home, this recipe will show you just how simple and joyful it can be.
Print
Classic Margherita Pizza Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 pizzas 1x
Description
A simple, authentic Classic Margherita Pizza Recipe with fresh mozzarella, basil, and San Marzano tomatoes.
Ingredients
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 tsp sugar
1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
1 cup warm water (110°F)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup canned San Marzano tomatoes (crushed by hand)
8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese (sliced)
Fresh basil leaves
Extra olive oil for brushing
Instructions
1. Combine yeast, sugar, and warm water. Let sit 5–10 minutes.
2. Mix flour and salt. Add yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir into dough.
3. Knead 8–10 minutes. Let rise 1 hour.
4. Preheat oven to 475°F. Heat stone/pan inside.
5. Punch down dough, divide, roll into a round.
6. Spread tomatoes, add mozzarella, drizzle with oil.
7. Bake 8–10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
8. Top with basil, slice, and serve.
Notes
Pat mozzarella dry if watery.
Substitute San Marzano with quality crushed tomatoes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
Keywords: Classic Margherita Pizza Recipe, Make At Home Pizza, Make Your Own Pizza Ideas, Make Your Own Pizza Recipe, How To Make Your Own Pizza, How To Make A Homemade Pizza, Make Your Own Pizza Toppings, Personal Pan Pizza Ideas, Homemade Pizzas Easy, Simple Homemade Pizza
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Only a handful of ingredients, but a ton of flavor.
- A perfect starting point if you’re exploring make your own pizza ideas.
- No fancy equipment required just love, patience, and a good baking sheet or stone.
- The balance of tangy sauce, creamy cheese, and fresh basil is unbeatable.
Ingredients Needed for This Recipe
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup canned San Marzano tomatoes (crushed by hand)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese (sliced)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Extra olive oil for brushing
How to Make Classic Margherita Pizza
- In a small bowl, combine yeast, sugar, and warm water. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until dough forms.
- Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a pizza stone (or baking sheet) inside while preheating.
- Punch down dough and divide into 2 portions. Roll one portion into a thin round.
- Spread crushed tomatoes evenly, leaving a border. Add slices of mozzarella and drizzle lightly with olive oil.
- Transfer pizza to hot stone or sheet and bake 8–10 minutes until crust is golden and cheese is bubbling.
- Remove from oven, top with fresh basil leaves, slice, and serve hot.
How to Serve Classic Margherita Pizza
Serve fresh from the oven with a drizzle of olive oil. Pair with a simple arugula salad and a glass of Chianti. For personal pan pizza ideas, divide dough into smaller rounds and let everyone add their own toppings.
How to Store Classic Margherita Pizza
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap slices in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Bake in a 375°F oven for 8–10 minutes to restore crispiness.
Tips to Make Classic Margherita Pizza
- Use bread flour for a chewier crust.
- Don’t overload with toppings simplicity is key.
- Always preheat your oven with the stone/pan inside for a crisp bottom.
Helpful Notes for This Recipe
- If fresh mozzarella releases too much water, pat it dry with paper towels before baking.
- Substitute San Marzano with any high-quality crushed tomatoes.
Variation
- Add thinly sliced cherry tomatoes for extra sweetness.
- Try a whole wheat crust for a healthier twist.
- Swap basil for arugula after baking for a peppery note.
FAQs
Can I make this dough ahead of time?
Yes! Refrigerate the dough overnight, then let it come to room temperature before shaping.
Do I need a pizza stone?
Not at all. A heavy baking sheet flipped upside down works perfectly.
Can I make this a personal pizza?
Absolutely! Divide the dough into smaller rounds ideal for make your own pizza toppings nights.
Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like pulling a bubbling Classic Margherita Pizza Recipe out of your own oven. Whether you’re making a large family pie or experimenting with simple homemade pizza versions, this recipe is a true taste of Italy right in your kitchen.
If you loved this, you might also enjoy our creamy Easy Alfredo Pizza Recipe or our fresh and colorful Cold Veggie Pizza.
For more inspiration straight from our kitchen, join us on Facebook for daily updates and follow our Pinterest boards for endless make your own pizza ideas.
From our table to yours buon appetito! ❤️
- Cottage Cheese Crust Pizza: A Comforting, Remarkable Italian Twist - September 8, 2025
- Easy Homemade White Pizza Recipe For Dinner - September 6, 2025
- Homemade Margherita Pizza: A Stunning, Soulful Slice of Tradition - September 4, 2025
