Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 10 mins
Rest Time 1 hr
Total Time 1 hr 25 mins
Cooking Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian
Courses: Dinner, Lunch, Snacks
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cooking Temp: 250  C
Servings: 2
Best Season: All Seasons
Description

Learn how to make the perfect Margherita Pizza at home with this step-by-step guide. Featuring a crispy yet chewy homemade pizza crust, tangy tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and aromatic basil, this classic Neapolitan-style pizza is simple yet bursting with flavor. Ideal for pizza nights or casual gatherings, this recipe delivers authentic Italian taste in every bite.

Ingredients
    For the Dough:
  • 300 g (2 1/2 cups) all-purpose flour ((or 00 flour for authentic texture))
  • 200 ml (3/4 cup + 1 tbsp) warm water ((about 40°C/105°F))
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp dry yeast (or 1/2 tsp instant yeast)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • For the Sauce:
  • 250 g (1 cup) canned San Marzano tomatoes ((or any high-quality canned tomatoes))
  • 1 clove garlic (minced)
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano (optional)
  • For the Toppings:
  • 150 g (5 oz) fresh mozzarella ((preferably mozzarella di bufala, sliced and drained))
  • 5 fresh 5-6 basil leaves
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
    Prepare the Dough
  1. 1
    In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
  2. Make the Tomato Sauce
  3. 2
    Blend the canned tomatoes until smooth. In a small pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add the blended tomatoes, salt, pepper, and oregano. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until slightly thickened. Set aside.
  4. Preheat and Shape the Pizza
  5. 3
    Preheat your oven to 250°C (480°F) for at least 30 minutes. If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven during preheating. Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll or stretch it into a 10-12 inch circle. Place the shaped dough onto a pizza peel or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  6. Assemble the Pizza
  7. 4
    Spread a thin layer of prepared tomato sauce over the pizza dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Arrange the mozzarella slices evenly on top. Add fresh basil leaves and drizzle with olive oil.
  8. Bake the Pizza
  9. 5
    Transfer the pizza to the preheated oven (or onto the pizza stone) and bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes before slicing.
Note
  • Flour Choice: Use "00" flour for an authentic Neapolitan-style crust.
  • Yeast Alternatives: Instant yeast can be mixed directly into the flour, while active dry yeast requires activation in water.
  • Baking Surface: A pizza stone yields the best results, but a preheated baking sheet works well too.
  • Mozzarella Tip: If using fresh mozzarella, drain excess moisture before placing it on the pizza to avoid a soggy crust.
  • Storage: Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for best results.
Keywords: Authentic, Homemade, Italian, Classic, Easy
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/margherita-pizza-recipe/