Making Margherita pizza at home is easier than you think, and the results are far better than takeout. With a simple dough, fresh ingredients, and a hot oven, you can create a crisp yet chewy crust topped with flavorful tomato sauce, melted mozzarella, and fresh mint leaves. Whether you’re making a quick dinner or serving it as part of a pizza night, this recipe delivers great flavor in minimal time.
Why This Margherita Pizza Stands Out
This homemade version is perfect for anyone who loves classic pizza flavors but wants something fresh and easy to prepare. The simple dough comes together in minutes, requiring only a brief knead before rolling it out. Baking at a high temperature ensures the crust crisps up while the toppings remain vibrant. Unlike store-bought options, this pizza gives you control over every ingredient, making it as light or cheesy as you prefer.
Tips for the Best Homemade Margherita Pizza
Making a great homemade pizza is all about technique. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Flour Matters – Using strong bread flour helps create a crisp, chewy crust.
- Rising is Optional – Letting the dough rise improves texture, but if you’re short on time, you can roll it out immediately.
- Keep the Sauce Simple – A smooth tomato passata or basic tomato sauce works best. Avoid chunky sauces that may make the crust soggy.
- Bake at a High Temperature – A hot oven ensures a crispy base and perfectly melted cheese. If you have a pizza stone, preheat it for even better results.
- Customize to Your Taste – Traditional Margherita pizza is simple, but you can add sun-dried tomatoes or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.
What to Eat with Margherita Pizza
Pair this pizza with simple sides for a well-rounded meal:
- Side Salad – A fresh green salad with olive oil and balsamic dressing complements the pizza’s flavors.
- Roasted Vegetables – Serve alongside roasted carrots, bell peppers, or eggplant for a satisfying meal.
- Garlic Bread – If you love a heartier meal, a slice of garlic swirl bread pairs well with the fresh flavors.
How to Store and Reheat
Homemade pizza is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers store well. Keep any extra slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place slices in a hot oven or toaster oven at 375°F for about 5-7 minutes to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soft and chewy. If freezing, wrap individual slices in foil and store them for up to one month.
Margherita Pizza
Ingredients
- 1 cup bread flour
- 1 tablespoon instant yeast
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ⅓ cup passata or tomato sauce
- ½ cup grated mozzarella
- Handful of fresh mint leaves
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix the flour, yeast, and salt. Gradually pour in warm water and mix until a dough forms. Knead for a few minutes until smooth.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface, roll it into a 10-inch round, and place it on a pizza pan.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F. Spread passata evenly over the dough, then top with mozzarella and mint leaves.
- Bake for 10 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted.
- Slice and serve immediately.