Margherita Pizza Recipe
Classic pizza topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and fresh basil.
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Ingredients
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Pizza Ingredients
Method
Cooking Instructions
- 1
Prepare the Dough
If using homemade dough, prepare it according to your recipe or package instructions. Allow it to rise if necessary. If using store-bought dough, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- 2
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up.
- 3
Shape the Dough
On a floured surface, stretch or roll out the pizza dough into a 12-inch round. If the dough is resisting, let it rest for a few minutes before continuing.
- 4
Prepare the Baking Surface
Sprinkle cornmeal on a pizza peel or the back of a baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- 5
Transfer the Dough
Carefully transfer the shaped dough onto the cornmeal-dusted peel or baking sheet.
- 6
Add Tomato Sauce
Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving about 1/2 inch around the edges.
- 7
Add Cheese
Tear the fresh mozzarella cheese into small pieces and distribute them evenly over the tomato sauce.
- 8
Season
Drizzle olive oil over the pizza and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- 9
Bake the Pizza
Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- 10
Add Fresh Basil
Remove the pizza from the oven and top with fresh basil leaves. Let it cool for a couple of minutes before slicing.
- 11
Serve
Slice the pizza and serve warm. Enjoy your homemade Margherita pizza!