How to Make Margherita Pizza at Home

Ingredients for Margherita Pizza  

Dough:

• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour

• 1 ½ cups (360ml) warm water

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp sugar

• 1 tsp active dry yeast

• 2 tbsp olive oil

Sauce:

• 1 can (400g) San Marzano tomatoes

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• Salt to taste

• Fresh basil leaves, torn

Toppings:

• 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella, sliced

• Fresh basil leaves

• Olive oil

• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions 

1. Prepare the Dough:

• In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy. 

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. 

• Mix until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. 

• Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size. 

2. Prepare the Sauce:

• In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. 

• Add the San Marzano tomatoes, crushing them with your hands or a fork. Simmer for about 15-20 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and stir in torn basil leaves. 

3. Assemble the Pizza:

• Preheat your oven to its highest setting (usually around 500°F/260°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat. 

• Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and let them rest for about 10 minutes. 

• On a floured surface, stretch each dough ball into a thin circle, about 10-12 inches in diameter. 

• Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. 

• Arrange the sliced mozzarella on top and add a few fresh basil leaves. 

4. Bake the Pizza:

• Transfer the pizza to the preheated stone or baking sheet (use a pizza peel or a flat baking sheet dusted with flour for easy transfer). 

• Bake for 7-10 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. 

• Remove from the oven and drizzle with a bit of olive oil. Garnish with more fresh basil leaves if desired. Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. 

5. Serve:

•  Slice and enjoy your homemade Margherita pizza! 🍕👨‍🍳

Buon appetito!