Pizza Margherita, with its simple yet delicious combination of tomato, mozzarella, and fresh basil, is a timeless classic of Italian cuisine. Whether you're craving an authentic slice of Italy or simply want a quick meal that’s full of flavor, Pizza Margherita is the perfect choice. It’s a dish that reflects the beauty of Italian culinary simplicity—fresh ingredients, carefully combined, to create something magical.
In this article, we’ll walk you through an easy and quick recipe for making Pizza Margherita at home, perfect for those nights when you want to enjoy a delicious homemade pizza but don’t have time for complex preparations.
What is Pizza Margherita?
Pizza Margherita is one of the most famous types of pizza in the world and is considered a symbol of Italian cuisine. The pizza was named after Queen Margherita of Savoy when she visited Naples in the late 1800s. The colors of the pizza—red from the tomato sauce, white from the mozzarella cheese, and green from the basil leaves—represent the Italian flag, making it a national treasure.
While you can find variations all over the world, the traditional Neapolitan Pizza Margherita features a thin, soft crust with high-quality mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fresh basil, topped off with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Ingredients for Pizza Margherita
You don’t need much to make an authentic Pizza Margherita at home. Here are the simple ingredients you’ll need:
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1 pizza dough ball (store-bought or homemade)
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200g tomato sauce (preferably San Marzano tomatoes)
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200g fresh mozzarella cheese (or mozzarella di bufala, if you prefer)
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Fresh basil leaves
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Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
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Salt, to taste
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Freshly cracked black pepper (optional)
Optional:
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A small ball of burrata cheese (for an extra creamy touch)
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A drizzle of balsamic glaze (for a touch of sweetness)
How to Make Pizza Margherita in 15 Minutes
Making Pizza Margherita at home is easier than you think, and you don’t need to be an expert in the kitchen to get it just right. Here's how to make this delicious pizza in 15 minutes!
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
The first step to making a great pizza is preheating your oven. Set it to 475°F (245°C) and let it heat up while you prepare the ingredients. If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it heats up for a crispy crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Pizza Dough
If you're using store-bought pizza dough, simply roll it out on a floured surface to your desired size. For a more authentic Italian pizza, roll the dough thin so it bakes quickly and gets that crispiness in the crust.
If you’re using homemade pizza dough, stretch and shape it into a round or oval shape. Make sure the edges are slightly thicker for a nice, soft crust.
Step 3: Spread the Tomato Sauce
Once your dough is rolled out, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the surface, leaving the edges bare for the crust. You don’t want to overpower the delicate flavors of the mozzarella with too much sauce.
Tip: Use San Marzano tomatoes for the most authentic taste, or choose a simple tomato sauce made from fresh tomatoes for a homemade touch.
Step 4: Add the Mozzarella
Tear the mozzarella cheese into pieces and scatter it evenly over the pizza. The cheese should melt beautifully into the sauce, creating a creamy texture that contrasts perfectly with the tangy tomato sauce.
Step 5: Bake the Pizza
Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated oven (use a pizza peel if you have one). Bake the pizza for about 8-10 minutes or until the crust is golden and crispy and the cheese has melted to a bubbly, delicious golden brown.
Tip: If you have a pizza stone, place the pizza directly on it for the crispiest crust.
Step 6: Add Fresh Basil and Olive Oil
Once the pizza is out of the oven, immediately top it with fresh basil leaves and drizzle with a little bit of extra virgin olive oil for added flavor. The heat from the pizza will gently wilt the basil, releasing its aromatic flavor into the pizza.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Slice your Pizza Margherita into wedges and serve hot. For an added touch, sprinkle with freshly cracked black pepper and a pinch of sea salt for extra flavor.
Why Pizza Margherita is So Loved
Pizza Margherita is loved worldwide for its simple ingredients and balanced flavors. The fresh mozzarella adds a creamy, milky texture, while the tomato sauce provides a tangy base that’s full of sweetness. The basil adds an herbaceous, fragrant punch, and the extra virgin olive oil brings everything together with a rich, velvety finish.
What makes this pizza even more beloved is its versatility. You can enjoy it as a quick lunch, light dinner, or even as an appetizer at a gathering. Plus, it’s a dish that anyone can customize—add a few toppings like mushrooms, anchovies, or prosciutto, or keep it classic for the ultimate Italian experience.
The History Behind Pizza Margherita
Pizza Margherita has an interesting backstory. Legend has it that in 1889, when Queen Margherita of Savoy visited Naples, a local pizzaiolo (pizza maker) named Raffaele Esposito created the pizza to honor her. The pizza was made with ingredients representing the colors of the Italian flag: red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and green basil. The Queen loved it, and the dish was named in her honor.
Since then, Pizza Margherita has become a symbol of Italian pride and culinary tradition. It’s a favorite not only in Italy but around the world, and it remains one of the most ordered pizzas on the planet.
Why Pizza Margherita is Perfect for Busy Days
Pizza Margherita is the perfect dish for busy days when you want something fresh, simple, and homemade. The 15-minute prep time and minimal ingredients make it an easy meal that’s still packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining friends, Pizza Margherita delivers the perfect combination of convenience and deliciousness.
It’s also a great way to get the whole family involved in the kitchen—kids will love helping top the pizza with mozzarella and basil, making it a fun activity as well as a meal!
Conclusion: Easy, Classic, and Always Delicious
Making Pizza Margherita at home is an incredibly rewarding experience that’s quick, easy, and full of authentic Italian flavors. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a classic pizza that rivals anything you’d find in a pizzeria. So the next time you’re craving pizza, give this recipe a try—it’s bound to become your go-to pizza recipe!