Pizza Margherita Recipe –  in Just 4 Easy Steps

There’s nothing quite like the taste of an authentic Italian Pizza Margherita—a golden, crisp crust topped with a simple yet flavorful tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil. This easy homemade pizza recipe is perfect for beginners and pizza lovers alike. With just a few basic ingredients and 4 foolproof steps, you’ll be enjoying a slice of Italy right from your own kitchen. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner, a fun weekend cooking project, or a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings, this classic Pizza Margherita recipe is always a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Beginner-Friendly – Only 4 simple steps with easy-to-find ingredients.
  
• Authentic Taste – Inspired by traditional Neapolitan flavors.
  
• Quick & Versatile – Ready in under 40 minutes; perfect for weeknight dinners.
  
• Customizable – Add your favorite toppings or keep it classic with mozzarella and basil.
  
• Diet-Friendly – Vegetarian, egg-free, nut-free, and low in sugar.
  

Margherita Pizza Recipe

Guiseppe

Servings

4

Prep Time

25 minutes

Cook Time

10 minutes

Calories

315

Cuisine

Italian

Category

Main Dish, Pizza

Learn how to make authentic Pizza Margherita at home in just 4 easy steps! A foolproof, vegetarian pizza recipe with fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato sauce.

This Pizza Margherita recipe combines a soft, homemade pizza dough, fresh tomato-basil sauce, melty mozzarella, and fragrant basil leaves for a true Italian classic. With a light, crispy crust and perfectly balanced toppings, this pizza makes an easy dinner option that’s both comforting and impressive.

Ingredients

For the Base:

• 300g strong bread flour
• 1 tsp instant yeast (from a sachet or tub)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
• 200ml warm water
• For the Tomato Sauce:
• 100ml passata
• 1 garlic clove, crushed
• Handful of fresh basil (or 1 tsp dried)
• Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Topping:

• 125g fresh mozzarella, sliced
• Handful of grated or shaved Parmesan (or vegetarian alternative)
• Handful of cherry tomatoes, halved

To Finish:

• Fresh basil leaves (optional)
• Extra olive oil, for drizzling

Directions

1. Step 1 – Make the Dough Base
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt.
3. Add warm water and olive oil, stirring with a wooden spoon until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead on a floured surface for 5 minutes until smooth. Cover with a tea towel and rest. (Optional: let it rise for a fluffier crust.)
5. Step 2 – Prepare the Sauce
6. Mix passata, crushed garlic, and basil in a small bowl.
7. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside while shaping the dough.
8. Step 3 – Shape the Dough
9. Divide dough into 2 equal balls.
10. Roll out each ball into thin rounds (about 25cm across).
11. Place onto floured baking sheets.
12. Step 4 – Assemble & Bake
13. Preheat oven to 240°C / 220°C fan / gas mark 8.
14. Spread sauce evenly over each pizza base.
15. Top with mozzarella, Parmesan, and cherry tomatoes.
16. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 8–10 minutes until crisp.
17. Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.