30-Minute Margherita Pizza Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 1 large pizza (2–3 servings)
Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This easy Margherita pizza delivers authentic Italian taste in just 30 minutes. With a crispy golden crust, gooey mozzarella, and fragrant basil, it’s the perfect weeknight pizza you can make at home — no fancy oven needed!

🛒 Ingredients

For the Dough (or use store-bought crust):

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp instant yeast
½ tsp sugar
½ tsp salt
¾ cup warm water
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Toppings:

½ cup pizza sauce or crushed San Marzano tomatoes
1 ½ cups fresh mozzarella (sliced or torn)
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Fresh basil leaves
Salt, to taste
Optional: Pinch of chili flakes or black pepper

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough (Skip if using store-bought)

In a bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add warm water and olive oil.
Mix until a soft dough forms, then knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
Cover and let rest for 10 minutes while you prepare the toppings.

2. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up.

3. Shape the Pizza

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a 10–12 inch circle.
Transfer to parchment paper for easy handling.

4. Assemble

Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
Top with mozzarella slices and drizzle lightly with olive oil.
Add a sprinkle of salt (and chili flakes if desired).

5. Bake

Transfer the pizza (with parchment) onto the hot baking sheet or stone.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.

Recommended Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie

6. Finish & Serve

Remove from oven and top with fresh basil leaves.
Drizzle with more olive oil before slicing and serving.

🌿 Tips & Variations

Crispier Crust: Bake directly on a preheated pizza stone.
Extra Flavor: Add minced garlic or a thin layer of pesto before the sauce.
Dairy-Free Option: Use vegan mozzarella or cashew cheese.

❄️ Storage & Reheating

Fridge: Store leftovers up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Reheat: Bake at 375°F for 5 minutes or use an air fryer for best crispness.

Author
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Rabia

Chef & Food Blogger at menuatthetable.com

Rabia has been a chef in Dubai for over eight years and loves exploring different types of food. Through the blog Menu at the Table, Rabia shares the best places to eat in Dubai for every cuisine. Whether you want street food or a fancy restaurant, Rabia helps you find the perfect spot to enjoy delicious meals.