Margherita Pizza Recipe
Classic pizza topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella
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 and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- 2
Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
- 3
Knead Dough
Mix the ingredients until a dough forms. Transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 4
Let Dough Rise
Place the dough in a 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
- 5
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) to ensure it is hot enough to cook the pizza evenly.
- 6
Shape Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out to your desired thickness, typically about 1/4 inch thick.
- 7
Add Sauce
Transfer the rolled-out dough to a pizza stone or baking sheet. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the surface, 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
Season and Drizzle
Sprinkle with salt and black pepper to taste. Drizzle olive oil over the top for extra flavor.
- 10
Bake Pizza
Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
- 11
Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven, let it cool slightly, slice, and enjoy your homemade Margherita pizza!