Description
Hello pizza lovers! If you’re here, it’s because you’re curious about making the perfect classic Margherita pizza at home, using a tried-and-true recipe that’s adored by many. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to the kitchen, this recipe is a must-try. Let’s dive in and learn how to make this delicious Margherita pizza step-by-step!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 (12-inch) round of pizza dough
- 3 tbsp tomato sauce (recipe below)
- Olive oil (use a good-quality extra virgin olive oil)
- 4–5 basil leaves, torn into pieces
- 2 ¾ oz fresh mozzarella, broken into chunks
For the tomato sauce:
- 1 can San Marzano whole peeled tomatoes
- Olive oil
- Fine sea salt
Optional substitutions: Use gluten-free dough or dairy-free mozzarella for dietary adjustments.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to the highest temperature possible, usually around 500°F (260°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat for 1 hour.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- For the tomato sauce, drain the canned tomatoes, blend them with a splash of olive oil and salt until smooth.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
- Roll out your pizza dough to a 12-inch round. Make sure it’s even and not too thin.
Step 4: Assemble the Pizza
- Spread 3 tbsp of the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving about a half-inch border. Drizzle a little olive oil over the sauce.
Step 5: Add Toppings
- Scatter torn basil leaves on top and evenly distribute the mozzarella chunks.
Step 6: Bake the Pizza
- Transfer the pizza onto the stone (or baking tray) and bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly, usually 10-12 minutes.
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh basil and mozzarella will significantly enhance the flavor.
- Don’t over-sauce: Keep the tomato sauce light to avoid sogginess.
- Preheat the pizza stone: This ensures a crispy crust and an evenly cooked pizza.