Homemade Margherita Pizza Recipe (Authentic Neapolitan Style)
Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 25 mins
Servings: 2 pizzas | Cuisine: Italian | Course: Main, Dinner
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This authentic Margherita pizza recipe brings the true taste of Naples to your kitchen. With a crisp, chewy crust, fresh tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, it’s a simple yet classic pizza that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
For the Dough (Neapolitan Style)
- 3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp instant yeast
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (300 ml)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Toppings
- 1 cup canned San Marzano tomatoes (or any quality peeled tomatoes)
- 1–2 cloves garlic (optional)
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 250g fresh mozzarella (preferably mozzarella di bufala or Fior di Latte)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Extra flour or semolina (for dusting)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
- Add warm water gradually while mixing. Stir until a sticky dough forms.
- Add olive oil and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth.
- Cover and let rise for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.
Pro tip: For a more authentic flavor, cold ferment the dough in the fridge for 24–48 hours.
2. Make the Sauce
- Blend the canned tomatoes with garlic and salt using a hand blender or crush by hand for a rustic texture.
- Stir in olive oil. Do not cook the sauce — authentic Margherita pizza uses raw tomato sauce.
3. Shape the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) or as high as it goes. Use a pizza stone or steel if you have one.
- Divide the dough into 2 balls. Roll or stretch each ball on a floured surface to 10–12 inches wide.
4. Assemble the Pizza
- Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the dough.
- Tear the mozzarella into small chunks and scatter evenly.
- Add fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake
- Transfer the pizza onto the hot stone or baking sheet.
- Bake for 7–10 minutes or until the crust is puffed and golden, and cheese is bubbly.
Tips for the Best Margherita Pizza
- Use high heat: It mimics a wood-fired oven.
- Less is more: Don’t overload with cheese or sauce.
- Use fresh ingredients: The simplicity of Margherita pizza means every ingredient matters.
Variations
- Gluten-Free Margherita Pizza: Use a gluten-free pizza base.
- Vegan Margherita: Swap mozzarella with vegan cheese.
- Add-ins: Try a sprinkle of chili flakes or drizzle of balsamic glaze.
FAQs
Q: Can I use store-bought dough?
A: Yes! While homemade gives the best texture, high-quality store-bought dough works too.
Q: What’s the difference between Margherita and cheese pizza?
A: Margherita is more minimalist — it uses fresh mozzarella, raw tomato sauce, and fresh basil, not shredded cheese or cooked sauces.
Q: Can I make this in a regular oven?
A: Absolutely! Just preheat your oven as hot as it goes, and use a pizza stone or steel for best results.
Final Thoughts
Making Margherita pizza at home is easier than you think and tastes far better than delivery. With a few ingredients and the right technique, you’ll enjoy the authentic Italian flavor from your own kitchen.
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