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Best Homemade Margherita Pizza

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Best Homemade Margherita Pizza showcases the classic Italian combination of a crisp yet chewy crust, vibrant tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil. Simple ingredients come together to create an authentic pizzeria-style pizza at home.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups bread flour
  • 1 teaspoon instant yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup crushed San Marzano tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the bread flour, yeast, and salt.
  2. Add the warm water and olive oil and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  5. Preheat the oven to 500°F (260°C) or as hot as your oven allows.
  6. Place a pizza stone or baking steel in the oven while it preheats.
  7. In a small bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes, olive oil, and salt.
  8. Punch down the dough and stretch it into a 12-inch round.
  9. Transfer the dough to a pizza peel or parchment paper.
  10. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
  11. Arrange the mozzarella slices evenly across the pizza.
  12. Transfer the pizza to the hot pizza stone and bake for 8–12 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
  13. Remove the pizza from the oven.
  14. Scatter fresh basil leaves over the top.
  15. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil, slice, and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Fresh mozzarella is essential for authentic Margherita flavor and texture.
  • San Marzano tomatoes provide a naturally sweet and balanced sauce.
  • Add basil after baking to preserve its fresh flavor and vibrant color.
  • The dough can be refrigerated for up to 72 hours for deeper flavor development.
  • A pizza stone or baking steel helps create a crisp, pizzeria-style crust.
  • Serve with a green salad, Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, or antipasto.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/best-homemade-margherita-pizza/