Margherita Pizza Recipe
Classic pizza with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and fresh basil.
Was this page helpful?
Help improve this recipe for others.
Send this recipe to your inbox.
We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.
Ingredients
Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Dough
Toppings
Method
Dough Preparation
- 1
Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- 2
Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- 3
Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- 4
Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Assembling and Baking
- 5
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
- 6
Shape the Pizza
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer the rolled dough onto parchment paper.
- 7
Add the Sauce
Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- 8
Add Cheese and Basil
Tear the fresh mozzarella into pieces and distribute evenly over the sauce. Add fresh basil leaves on top.
- 9
Drizzle with Olive Oil
Drizzle olive oil over the pizza for added flavor.
- 10
Bake the Pizza
Carefully transfer the pizza (with the parchment) onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- 11
Cool and Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice and serve hot.