Homemade Margherita Pizza
Experience the authentic taste of Italy with this classic Margherita pizza featuring a crispy crust, tangy tomato sauce, and creamy fresh mozzarella.
Ingredients
- •1 lb (450g) store-bought or homemade pizza dough
- •1/2 cup (120ml) crushed San Marzano tomatoes
- •8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced or torn into pieces
- •1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- •2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- •1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- •1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) with a pizza stone or inverted baking sheet inside for at least 30 minutes.
- 2
On a lightly floured surface, stretch or roll the dough into a 12-inch circle.
- 3
Transfer the dough onto a piece of parchment paper or a floured pizza peel.
- 4
Spread the crushed tomatoes evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border for the crust.
- 5
Sprinkle the salt and oregano over the sauce, then arrange the mozzarella pieces on top.
- 6
Slide the pizza onto the preheated stone or baking sheet and bake for 8 to 12 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and slightly charred.
- 7
Remove from the oven, immediately top with fresh basil leaves, and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil before serving.
💡 Chef tips
- For a crispier crust, ensure your oven is fully preheated for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- If using fresh mozzarella balls in water, pat them dry with paper towels before adding to the pizza to prevent a soggy crust.
- You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and keep it in the refrigerator, bringing it to room temperature before stretching.
✅ How it should turn out
The finished pizza should have a blistered, golden-brown crust, melted and slightly browned mozzarella, and a fresh, aromatic scent of basil and sweet tomatoes.