Classic Margherita Pizza
What Started it all:
pizza
This classic Margherita pizza recipe is simple yet delicious, featuring a crispy crust, fresh tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. Perfect for a delightful homemade meal that serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 4 pre-made pizza doughs (or homemade if you prefer)
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.
- Roll out each of the four pizza doughs on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer the doughs to parchment paper or a lightly floured pizza peel if using a pizza stone.
- Evenly spread 1/2 cup of tomato sauce onto each pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the tomato sauce on each pizza. Season each pizza with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon of dried oregano, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
- Carefully transfer the pizzas to the oven. If using a pizza stone, slide the pizzas off the peel onto the stone. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Once the pizzas are out of the oven, immediately top each with 1/2 cup of fresh basil leaves. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over each pizza for added flavor.
- Slice each pizza into 4-6 pieces and serve hot.
Enjoy your homemade Margherita pizzas with family or friends! This simple yet flavorful recipe brings the classic taste of Italy to your kitchen, making for a delightful and satisfying meal. Buon appetito!