The smell of freshly baked, crispy pizza is magical. Crispy dough, bubbling tomato sauce and stringy mozzarella stretch as you bite into the first piece. Nothing is more comforting than a classic margherita. This is the type of recipe that everyone will enjoy — it’s simple and wholesome, with no need for fancy toppings. Just tomato, basil, and cheese working in harmony.

It’s my go-to recipe for lazy weekends or busy evenings when I need something delicious and easy to make. This recipe doesn’t require you to be an expert chef. If you can bake, stretch and stir, then you are good to go!

Why This Recipe works

• Simple, readily available ingredients are used.
• Preparation and cooking time is minimal.
• The perfect balance between crispy crust and gooey melted cheese.
• It works with store-bought or homemade dough.
• Even beginners can do it — no need for special tools

Does This Recipe Look Healthy?

It’s a great idea! Pizza Margherita has a lighter texture than other pizzas, as it uses fresh ingredients instead of heavy sauces and processed toppings. The tomato base is real tomatoes and the cheese can be changed to suit your taste. You can make it healthier by adding:

• Use whole wheat or multigrains flour to add extra fiber.
• Keep the oil light to get a better taste.
• Controlling portion size — one pizza serves two comfortably.
• Add extra vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to boost your nutrition.

This is a comfort food that’s satisfying without being too heavy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dough (Homemade option)

• All-purpose flour, 2 cups (250g) (or half wheat and half all-purpose).
• Half a teaspoon of salt
• Instant yeast, 1 teaspoon
• Warm water, about 100degF/38degC.
• Olive oil 1 tablespoon

For the Topping

• 1 cup crushed tomatoes, San Marzano or other good canned varieties.
• Finely mince 1 small clove of garlic
• Add a pinch of sugar and salt to balance the acidity
• 125 g fresh mozzarella, torn into pieces
• Fresh basil leaves, as desired
• Extra virgin olive oil is best for the best taste.
• Sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese (optional).
• Freshly ground black Pepper

Optional Swaps:

• If you are short on time, use a pizza base or store-bought dough.
• Low-moisture cheese for less watery results.
• Use tomato puree or passata in place of crushed tomatoes.
• For a little extra flavor, add cherry tomatoes or a pinch dried oregano.

Equipment Required

• Oven (preheated).
• Baking sheet or pizza stone
• Stretching with a rolling pin or your own hands
• Mixing Bowl
• Spoon or spatula
• Parchment Paper or Pizza Peel (optional).
• Pizza cutter or sharp knife

Cooking Time, Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time : 15 Minutes (1 hour if you are making your own dough).
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Servings for 2-3 people

Nutritional Information (approx. Nutritional Facts (approx.

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Fat: 12 g

Easy-to-follow Step-by-Step instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In large bowl, combine flour and salt. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, olive oil, and yeast. Rest it for a couple of minutes, until the mixture is slightly foamy. Pour the yeast mixture gradually into the flour, and stir with a wooden spoon or your hand until the dough begins to come together.

It should be smooth and elastic after kneading for 5-6 minutes on a floured work surface. The dough should not be sticky but soft. Cover it with plastic wrap, or a damp towel, and allow it to rise for 45-60 minutes in a warm place.

Step 2. Prepare the Sauce

As the dough rests prepare the pizza sauce. Mix crushed tomatoes with minced garlic and salt in a bowl. Adjust seasoning according to taste. Sugar helps to mellow the acidity of the tomato while garlic adds depth.

Step 3: Pre-heat the Oven

Pre-heat your oven to 450-500degF (220degC).. Place a baking sheet or pizza stone in the oven for 30 minutes to get a crispy base.

Step 4: Form the Dough

After the dough has risen gently punch it to release the air. It can be rolled or stretched into a circle of 10-12 inches on a lightly-floured surface. Keep the edges slightly thinner to create a beautiful crust.

You can skip the dough part if you are using a ready-made pizza base or a pre-made dough.

Step 5: Assemble your Pizza

Place the shaped dough on parchment paper or lightly oil a baking sheet. Spread a thin, even layer of tomato paste across the surface. Leave about an inch around the edges to make the crust.

Spread the sauce with small mozzarella pieces. You want small pools of melted mozzarella, not a thick layer. Sprinkle a little Parmesan or black pepper on top, and drizzle olive oil over the top.

Step 6: Bake the Pizza

Place your pizza carefully (on parchment paper or directly on the baking stone or tray) and heat it. Bake the pizza for 10-12 minutes or until it is golden brown. The cheese should be melted and the sauce bubbling.

It’s ready if the kitchen is filled with the aroma of heaven — roasted tomatoes, warm bread and melted cheese.

Step 7: Finish off the Pizza

Top your pizza as soon as it is out with fresh basil. The heat of the pizza will slightly wilt basil, releasing a beautiful aroma. Let it rest for 2 to 3 minutes before cutting so that the cheese can slightly set.

Enjoy your homemade Easy Pizza Margherita straight from the oven by cutting into slices and serving warm.

Tips to the Perfect Pizza Margherita

• Pre-heat your oven to the maximum temperature.
• Balance the cheese and sauce to keep it crisp.
• Pat dry your mozzarella to avoid a watery pizza.
• If the crust is browning too quickly, you can move it to another rack.
• For a perfect slice, let the pizza rest for a few minutes.

Topping Suggestions

Want to raise your margherita just a bit? Here are some toppings to try:

• Cherry tomatoes with balsamic glazing
• After baking, add prosciutto and arugula
• Caramelized onions with goat cheese
• Sauteed baby spinach and mushrooms
• Burrata cheese is added just before serving
• Extra flavor with a drizzle of chili oil or pesto

Recipe Variations

• Whole wheat Version: Replace all or half of the flour in this recipe with whole grain.
• Gluten-Free Pizza: Use a gluten-free pizza base or flour blend.
• Mini Pizzas: Make smaller, individual pizzas for fun serving.
• Cauliflower Crust For a low-carb alternative, replace the dough with a mixture of cauliflower and eggs.
• Flatbread Margherita: Use store-bought naan or flatbread — ready in 10 minutes!

Perfect Drink Pairings

• Enjoy a glass of red wine such as Chianti or Sangiovese
• Sparkling Water with Lemon to add a refreshing twist
• Homemade lemonade or Iced Tea for a family-friendly meal
• Italian soda is a fizzy, sweet pairing

How to store leftovers

Allow your pizza to cool completely before storing.

• Refrigerator : Store the slices in an airtight containers for up to two days.
• Reheat : Warm up in the oven for 5 to 7 minutes at 200degC (400degF) until crisp again. Avoid microwaving as it will soften the crust.
• Freezer : Freeze single slices in bags or foil for up to two weeks. Reheat in a hot, dry oven.

FAQs

1.  Can I make this without yeast?

Baking powder can be substituted for yeast to create a no-rise quick dough. The dough will have a slightly different taste, more like flatbread. It is still delicious.

2. Can I use regular shredded mozzarella instead of fresh?

You can use regular shredded cheese instead of the fresh. Use low-moisture mozzarella if you want a less watery, drier result.

3. Can I make it vegan? 

Don’t overdo the sauce and use well-drained cheese to prevent your crust from becoming soggy. Bake on a heated stone or tray for even heating.

4. Can I prepare the dough in advance?

Yes, you can make it vegan. Stick to the olive oil base and vegan mozzarella or cashews cheese.

5. Can I prepare the dough in advance? 

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. The dough can be stored in the fridge overnight. Let it come to room temperature 30 minutes before baking.

Final Thoughts

This simple pizza margherita recipe shows that good food does not have to be difficult. You can create a pizza with a few fresh ingredients, a little love and some care that will taste like it was made in a rustic Italian home. Every bite is a reminder that simple food can bring joy.

Next time you want comfort food, make it yourself instead of ordering delivery! Share it with your friends and family tonight. Don’t forget about posting your own version. I love seeing your home-made creations!