Margherita Pizza Recipe
Make Margherita Pizza Recipe in just 1h 40m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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 Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm water (about 110°F/43°C), sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
- 2
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution of salt.
- 3
Combine Ingredients
Once the yeast is frothy, add it to the flour mixture along with olive oil. Mix until a dough begins to form.
- 4
Knead Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 5
First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Pizza Assembly
- 6
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up.
- 7
Shape Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll or stretch it out to your desired thickness, about 12 inches in diameter.
- 8
Add Sauce
Transfer the shaped dough onto a piece of parchment paper. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- 9
Add Cheese
Tear the fresh mozzarella into pieces and distribute them evenly over the sauce.
- 10
Add Basil and Oil
Tear the fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them over the pizza. Drizzle olive oil over the top and season with salt to taste.
- 11
Bake Pizza
Using a pizza peel or the back of a baking sheet, carefully transfer the pizza (with the parchment paper) onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
- 12
Cool and Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice and serve hot.
