Easy Margherita Pizza with Homemade Crust

Creating the perfect pizza at home is an art, and our Easy Margherita Pizza with Homemade Crust recipe is the masterpiece you’ve been searching for. Picture this: a golden, crispy crust that’s both chewy and airy, topped with vibrant red tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, fragrant basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil. It’s a taste of Italy right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
• Fresh basil leaves
• 1 tablespoon olive oil, for drizzling
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, olive oil, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and stir until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, then place it in a greased bowl. Cover and let it rise for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
4. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Punch down the dough and divide it in half. Roll out each half into a 12-inch circle on a floured surface.
5. Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza stone. Spread marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Arrange the fresh mozzarella slices on top of the sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and drizzle with olive oil.
9. Slice, serve, and enjoy your homemade Margherita pizza!

Preparation Time: 2 hours

Yield: 2 medium pizzas

A classic Margherita pizza with a homemade crust, topped with marinara sauce, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Nutritional Information: Calories: 320 | Fat: 14g | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 12g

Make tonight pizza night with our Easy Margherita Pizza with Homemade Crust recipe. Your taste buds will thank you, and your family and friends will be asking for seconds. Buon appetito!