The quintessential Italian classic, Pizza Margherita is a timeless favorite that never goes out of style. This beloved dish has been delighting taste buds for over a century, and its simple yet elegant combination of fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil continues to inspire chefs and home cooks alike.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the world of Pizza Margherita recipes, showcasing 20 mouthwatering variations that cater to every palate and preference. From classic Neapolitan-style pies to creative twists with fresh ingredients and bold flavors, we’ve got you covered for any occasion – whether it’s a family dinner, a casual gathering with friends, or a romantic evening in.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of Pizza Margherita and discover a universe of flavors and possibilities!
Classic Neapolitan Pizza Margherita
Experience the authentic taste of Naples with this iconic pizza recipe. Fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil come together to create a harmonious flavor profile that has captivated palates for generations.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb high-protein flour
– 625 ml water
– 10 g active dry yeast
– 20 g salt
– 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– 12 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 8-10 fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cups San Marzano tomatoes (crushed)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
3. Gradually add water while kneading the dough for 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Form into a ball and let rest at room temperature for 24 hours.
5. Preheat oven to 550°F (290°C).
6. Roll out the dough to a thickness of 1/8 inch (3 mm) and transfer to a preheated pizza stone or baking sheet.
7. Top with mozzarella slices, followed by crushed tomatoes and chopped basil leaves.
8. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Thin Crust Pizza Margherita
Savor the simplicity of Italy’s iconic pizza with this classic recipe. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be rewarded with a delicate crust and rich flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
3. Gradually add lukewarm water, stirring until dough forms.
4. Knead for 5 minutes, then let rest for 10 minutes.
5. Roll out dough to a thin sheet, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Top with mozzarella cheese and drizzle with olive oil.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
9. Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh basil leaves, and serve.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Deep Dish Pizza Margherita
This recipe puts a unique spin on the classic margherita pizza, using a deep dish crust to add an extra layer of flavor and texture. The result is a rich and satisfying pizza that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. Place dough in a deep dish pizza pan or a 9-inch round cake pan.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, followed by chopped basil leaves.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Gluten-Free Pizza Margherita
This classic Italian-style pizza gets a gluten-free twist, making it accessible to those with dietary restrictions. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy a delicious and authentic-tasting Margherita pizza at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (gluten-free)
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/2 cup tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, olive oil, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Gradually add warm water and mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, then shape into a ball.
5. Roll out the dough to your desired thickness (about 1/4 inch).
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Spread tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
8. Top with mozzarella cheese and fresh basil leaves.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vegan Pizza Margherita
Vegan Pizza Margherita Recipe
A classic Italian-inspired vegan pizza recipe that combines the simplicity of fresh tomatoes and basil with a crispy crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/2 cup vegan mozzarella shreds (such as Daiya or Follow Your Heart)
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced into thin rounds
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, olive oil, salt, and sugar.
3. Gradually add warm water and mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out the dough to desired thickness and place on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
6. Top with vegan mozzarella shreds, tomato slices, and chopped basil leaves.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Whole Wheat Pizza Margherita
This recipe combines the simplicity of a traditional margherita pizza with the nutty flavor and wholesome goodness of whole wheat crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup warm water
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, salt, and yeast.
3. Add olive oil and warm water; mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead for 5 minutes, then let rest for 10 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm).
6. Transfer to a baking sheet or pizza stone.
7. Top with mozzarella cheese and chopped basil leaves.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stuffed Crust Pizza Margherita
Elevate your pizza game with this innovative recipe that combines the classic flavors of a margherita with a creative twist – a stuffed crust!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
4. Place the dough on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
5. Spread the cheese mixture along the edges of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border in the center.
6. Fold the crust over the cheese, creating a stuffed edge.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the crust and sprinkle with salt to taste.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Pizza Margherita
A twist on the classic Italian favorite, this grilled pizza margherita recipe brings a new level of flavor and texture to the table.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tbsp tomato sauce
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic.
3. Place pizza on grill and cook for 2-3 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
4. Spread tomato sauce over pizza, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Top with sliced mozzarella cheese.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from grill and sprinkle with chopped fresh basil.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Mini Pizza Margherita Bites
Simplify your pizza cravings with these bite-sized treats that pack a punch of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of mini pizza crusts (about 12-15 pieces)
– 1 cup of marinara sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the mini pizza crusts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Spread about 1-2 teaspoons of marinara sauce on each crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
5. If desired, add a few chopped basil leaves on top.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Margherita Pizza with Fresh Basil
Classic Margherita Pizza with Fresh Basil Recipe
This iconic Neapolitan-style pizza is a masterclass in simplicity, showcasing the sweet and savory union of fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. In just 15 minutes, you’ll be enjoying a taste of Italy.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 large cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, cored and chopped (or 1 can of San Marzano tomatoes)
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) with a pizza stone or baking sheet inside.
2. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
3. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle or rectangle.
6. Spread garlic, tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and top with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Margherita Pizza with Balsamic Glaze
Classic Margherita Pizza with Balsamic Glaze Recipe
This beloved Italian dish is elevated by the addition of a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, adding depth and complexity to the traditional flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 cup San Marzano tomatoes, crushed by hand
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
– Balsamic glaze (recipe below)
Balsamic Glaze:
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise for 1 hour.
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a circle or rectangle.
7. Top the dough with crushed tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and chopped basil (if using).
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
9. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the pizza before serving.
Baking Time: 15-20 minutes
Margherita Pizza with Garlic Infused Olive Oil
Discover the simplicity of Italy’s iconic pizza with a twist – garlic infused olive oil adds a savory depth to this classic recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) pizza dough
– 1 cup (240ml) garlic infused olive oil
– 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tbsp (30g) chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6mm).
3. Brush the garlic infused olive oil evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with mozzarella cheese and basil leaves.
5. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Margherita Pizza with Cherry Tomatoes
This iconic Italian dish gets a sweet twist with the addition of juicy cherry tomatoes. The combination of flavors and textures is a match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 12 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. Arrange the cherry tomatoes on one half of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around them.
4. Top with mozzarella cheese slices and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press edges to seal.
7. Place the pizza on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Margherita Pizza with Buffalo Mozzarella
A timeless Italian favorite, this simple yet elegant pizza combines the creamiest buffalo mozzarella cheese with the sweetest San Marzano tomatoes and a sprinkle of fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 oz buffalo mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 cups San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt, to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil, for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Brush the dough with a little olive oil and spread the crushed tomatoes evenly, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Arrange the sliced mozzarella cheese on top of the tomatoes.
5. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves over the mozzarella.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Margherita Pizza with Pesto Drizzle
Classic Italian flavors combine in this simple yet impressive pizza recipe, featuring a creamy pesto drizzle on top of a flavorful margherita base.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) pizza dough
– 2 cups (250g) San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
– 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1 tsp (5ml) olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
– Pesto drizzle ingredients:
+ 1/4 cup (60g) pesto sauce
+ 2 tbsp (30g) extra virgin olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread crushed tomatoes, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with sliced mozzarella cheese.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
7. Allow pizza to cool slightly before drizzling with pesto sauce mixed with extra virgin olive oil.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Margherita Pizza with Arugula Topping
A classic Italian favorite gets a peppery twist with this simple and delicious recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh arugula leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a circle or rectangle.
7. Top with mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and arugula leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Margherita Pizza with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This classic Italian pizza gets a sweet and savory boost from the addition of sun-dried tomatoes, adding depth and complexity to this beloved dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread sun-dried tomatoes evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Arrange mozzarella slices on top of tomatoes.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the pizza and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Margherita Pizza with Roasted Garlic
Elevate the classic margherita pizza with the deep, buttery flavor of roasted garlic. This simple yet impressive recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 3 cloves garlic, peeled and separated into individual bulbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast garlic: Toss garlic bulbs with olive oil on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
3. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness. Place on a baking sheet.
4. Spread tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Top with roasted garlic, mozzarella cheese, salt, and pepper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden and cheese is melted.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Margherita Pizza with Artichoke Hearts
This recipe combines the classic Italian flavors of Margherita pizza with the savory taste of artichoke hearts, creating a unique and delicious twist on a classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 12 oz can of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread the chopped artichoke hearts evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with mozzarella cheese slices.
5. Drizzle olive oil and sprinkle minced garlic over the pizza.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Margherita Pizza with a Twist of Chili Flakes
Classic Margherita pizza gets a spicy kick from the addition of chili flakes, adding a depth of flavor to this timeless favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
– Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until dough forms.
4. Knead for 5-7 minutes.
5. Roll out dough to desired thickness. Place on baking sheet or pizza stone.
6. Top with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and chili flakes.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and top with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your pizza game with these 20 delicious Margherita recipes! From classic Neapolitan styles to innovative twists, we’ve got you covered for every occasion. Whether you’re a fan of thin crusts, deep dishes, or gluten-free options, there’s a recipe here that suits your taste buds. Plus, discover unique variations featuring fresh basil, balsamic glaze, garlic infused olive oil, and more! With this diverse collection of Margherita recipes, you’ll never run out of creative ways to top off your pizza night.
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