Homemade Margherita Pizza
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Nothing beats the simplicity of a Homemade Margherita Pizza—crispy edges, gooey cheese, and fresh herbs on a golden crust. Whether you’re celebrating pizza night or craving a quick homemade lunch, this recipe delivers classic flavor with minimal ingredients and effort. Best of all, it’s ready in about 20 minutes from start to finish!
There’s something so satisfying about making pizza from scratch—and this Margherita Pizza is no exception!
With its golden, crispy crust, simple tomato sauce, melty mozzarella, and fresh mint leaves (yes, mint for a refreshing twist!), this recipe brings together classic flavors with a homemade touch. You’ll be surprised how easy it is to throw together with pantry staples and just a bit of prep.
Whether you use homemade dough or store-bought, this pizza delivers big flavor in every bite—and it’s ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish!
Looking for more homemade pizza ideas? Try these Mini Caprese Pizzas or this BBQ chicken flatbread next!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Recipe Ingredients
You’ll need the following ingredients to make this delicious 10-inch Margherita pizza:
Ingredient Notes
Strong Bread Flour – This gives your crust better structure and chew. If you only have all-purpose flour, it works in a pinch but won’t be as crisp. Weigh it if you can (about 120g per cup) for the best dough consistency.
Instant Yeast – No need to proof—just mix it straight into the dry ingredients. If using active dry yeast, dissolve it in the warm water with a pinch of sugar and let sit 5–10 minutes until bubbly.
Warm Water – Aim for around 110°F—warm to the touch but not hot. Too hot and it can kill the yeast.
Passata or Tomato Sauce – Passata gives a smooth, rich tomato base. If you use canned tomatoes, blitz them until smooth for a similar result. Add a pinch of salt or oregano for extra flavor.
Mozzarella Cheese – Use low-moisture grated mozzarella for a classic pizzeria-style melt, or fresh mozzarella torn into small pieces if you prefer a creamier finish. Pat fresh mozzarella dry before adding it to prevent sogginess.
Fresh Mint Leaves – Traditionally, Margherita pizza uses basil. If using mint, add it after baking so it doesn’t lose its flavor and wilt. Want to keep it classic? Swap in fresh basil instead.
See the recipe card below for exact quantities and instructions.
Recipe Variations
Swap the mint for fresh basil.
Add crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle with chili oil before serving.
Add thinly sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers.
How to Make Homemade Margherita Pizza: Step by Step
Here are quick visual instructions. Be sure to check out the full instructions with exact ingredients in the printable recipe card below.
Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Pour in the warm water and mix everything until a dough forms.
Step 2: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for a few minutes. Roll the dough into a 10-inch round and place it on a pizza pan.
Step 3: Spread the sauce evenly over the dough, then top with mozzarella and mint leaves.
Step 4: Bake for 10 minutes. Enjoy!
Recipe Tips and Tricks
If your dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour while kneading.
For an even crispier base, preheat your baking sheet or pizza stone before placing the pizza on it.
Let the dough rest for 10 minutes before rolling if it’s too elastic to work with.
You can use a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for a more complex cheese layer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes. Bread flour gives a chewier crust, but all-purpose will still make a good pizza.
Do I need to let the dough rise?
This quick dough works without a rise, but resting it for 20–30 minutes can improve texture.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes. Freeze the dough after kneading. Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.
I hope you love this homemade Margherita pizza! Please consider leaving a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating in the recipe card below. Thank you so much!
More Recipe Ideas
Homemade Margherita Pizza
Ingredients
- 1 cup strong bread flour
- 1 tbsp instant yeast
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ⅓ cup passata or tomato sauce
- ½ cup grated mozzarella
- Handful of fresh mint leaves
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425-430°F.
- In a medium bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Pour in the warm water and mix everything until a dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for a few minutes. Roll the dough into a 10-inch round and place it on a pizza pan.
- Spread the sauce evenly over the dough, then top with mozzarella and mint leaves.
- Bake for 10 minutes. Enjoy!
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding sun-dried sliced tomatoes.
Allowing the dough to rise is optional but not essential.
If your dough is too wet or sticky, add a little more flour.
The nutritional details for recipes are estimated using MyFitnessPal and can vary with different products, measurement accuracy, and source reliability. We aim to provide accurate information but cannot guarantee the precise accuracy of the nutritional data