Quick and Easy Homemade Margherita Pizza RECIPE

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Craving a slice of Italy? This homemade Margherita pizza is your answer!

With just a few simple ingredients and a fast recipe, you can bring the vibrant flavors of a classic Italian pizzeria into your kitchen.

homemade margherita pizza

This one’s all about balance; sweet tomatoes, creamy mozzarella and bright basil all layered over a thin crust that gets perfectly golden in a hot oven. It’s pizza night without the fuss and way better than delivery.

Whether you’re feeding the family or making something low-key for yourself, this recipe keeps things easy without cutting corners. Just a few fresh ingredients and you’re good to go.

And if you’re the type who likes to keep a go-to pizza recipe in your back pocket, this one’s it. Fast, flavorful and totally satisfying.

Why I Love This Pizza?

I love making this Margherita pizza because it combines simplicity with rich flavor.

The fresh ingredients: ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil, create a harmonious taste that transports me straight to Italy.

It’s a delightful way to enjoy a homemade meal that’s both satisfying and requires little effort:

  • Quick to make: ready in about 30 minutes
  • Fresh ingredients: basil, tomatoes and mozzarella
  • Crispy crust: thin and golden with every bite
  • Customizable: make it your way with homemade or store-bought dough
  • Light but satisfying: rich flavor without feeling heavy
  • Perfect for any night: casual or a little fancy

It’s pizza that hits the spot without being over the top.

Pro Tips for the Best Margherita Pizza

  1. Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fresh basil to enhance flavor.​

2. Preheat Your Oven: Ensure your oven is hot (around 475°F/245°C) to achieve a crispy crust.​

3. Don’t Overload Toppings: Keep it simple to allow each ingredient to shine.​

4. Add Basil After Baking: This preserves its fresh flavor and vibrant color.​

5. Drizzle Olive Oil: A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil before serving adds richness.

Ingredient Substitutions

Don’t stress if you’re missing something. This pizza’s flexible and still tastes amazing with a few swaps.

  • Mozzarella: use shredded if you don’t have fresh
  • Tomato sauce: store-bought works if you’re short on time
  • Basil: swap for arugula after baking for a peppery kick
  • Crust: try naan, pita or a pre-made pizza base for speed
  • Dairy-free: use vegan cheese or skip it altogether
  • Olive oil: a garlic-infused version adds extra flavor

Use what you’ve got and keep it simple.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Leftover pizza? Lucky you. Here’s how to keep it tasting fresh.

Storage:
Place slices in an airtight container or wrap in foil. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating:
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a crisp crust or pop in the oven at 375°F for about 5–7 minutes. Microwave works too but the crust won’t stay crisp.

Freezing:
Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen in the oven until hot and crispy.

how to do Homemade Margherita Pizza

Yield: 2

Homemade Margherita Pizza

margherita pizza tomato sauce

Bring the taste of Italy to your home with this easy Margherita pizza recipe. Featuring a crisp crust, fresh tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, it's a delightful meal that's quick to prepare and sure to impress.

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 pre-made pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup roasted tomato sauce
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up.
  2. Prepare the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness. Transfer it to a baking sheet or pizza peel dusted with flour.
  3. Add Sauce: Spread the crushed tomatoes and the homemade roasted tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
  4. Layer the Cheese: Arrange the mozzarella slices on top of the sauce. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and oregano if using.
  5. Bake the Pizza: Carefully slide the pizza into the oven (or onto the hot pizza stone) and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
  6. Finish with Basil: Once out of the oven, scatter fresh basil leaves over the top. Let it cool for a minute before slicing.
  7. Serve: Enjoy your homemade Margherita pizza hot, drizzled with extra olive oil if desired.

Nutrition Information:


Amount Per Serving: Calories: 280Total Fat: 12gCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 32g

Did you make this recipe?

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Give It a Try!

If you’re looking for a delicious and straightforward way to enjoy homemade pizza, this Margherita recipe is a must-try.

Its combination of fresh ingredients and ease of preparation makes it a favorite in my kitchen.

Give it a try and you won’t be disappointed!

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Angelica. Woman smiling in sunglasses, holding a festive drink outdoors on a sunny day.

Hi, I'm Angelica

Hi, I’m Angelica. I love experimenting in the kitchen… not as a chef, just as someone who adores creating and sharing joy through food. I'm the creator + editor of all the recipes found in Pepper Basil.

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