Margherita Pizza with Fresh Basil

Introduction

Margherita pizza with fresh basil is the perfect combination of simplicity and flavor. At Best Bread Machine, we celebrate recipes that are both comforting and easy to make at home—especially for busy moms and families. This classic pizza features a light, chewy crust topped with rich tomato sauce, melted mozzarella, and aromatic fresh basil. It’s everything homemade pizza should be: flavorful, nourishing, and joyful to share.

Whether you’re using homemade dough from your bread machine or a store-bought option, this guide will walk you through every step to creating a perfect Margherita pizza in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Pizza

• Simple ingredients, bold flavor
• Easy to make at home with or without a bread machine
• Kid-approved and family-friendly
• Customizable with minimal effort
• Beautifully fresh, ideal for weeknights or special weekends

Ingredients

For the Dough (Bread Machine Option):

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/4 cups warm water
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast

For the Pizza:

• 1 cup tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• Handful of fresh basil leaves
• Olive oil, for drizzling
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: pinch of oregano or red pepper flakes

Equipment Needed

• Bread machine (optional)
• Pizza stone or baking sheet
• Rolling pin
• Oven (preheated to 475°F/245°C)
• Pizza cutter or sharp knife

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Dough (Bread Machine Method)

Add water, olive oil, salt, sugar, flour, and yeast to your bread machine in the order recommended by the manufacturer. Use the dough setting and let it mix and rise.

2. Preheat the Oven

Place your pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven and preheat to 475°F (245°C). This step ensures a crisp, golden crust.

3. Prepare the Dough

Once the dough is ready, divide it into two equal portions. On a floured surface, roll each out into a 10-12 inch circle. Keep the edges slightly thicker for a soft, chewy crust.

4. Assemble the Pizza

Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Arrange fresh mozzarella slices evenly over the sauce. Drizzle with a little olive oil and a light sprinkle of salt.

5. Bake

Transfer the pizza onto the preheated stone or sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

6. Add Fresh Basil

Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately top with fresh basil leaves. Let it rest for 2-3 minutes before slicing.

Tips for the Best Margherita Pizza

• Use fresh mozzarella: It melts beautifully and adds authentic flavor.
• Don’t overload the sauce: Keep it light to avoid sogginess.
• High heat is key: A very hot oven mimics traditional pizza ovens.
• Add basil after baking: Heat wilts the basil, so add it fresh.
• Try a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra depth.

Dough Variations

• Whole wheat dough: Substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Gluten-free option: Use a reliable gluten-free pizza dough mix.
• Store-bought dough: Saves time without sacrificing flavor.

Sauce Suggestions

• Classic tomato: A simple blend of crushed tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil.
• San Marzano tomatoes: Rich and slightly sweet.
• Pesto base: For a basil-forward twist.

Cheese Alternatives

• Buffalo mozzarella: Creamier and softer
• Shredded mozzarella: Convenient, but less traditional
• Vegan mozzarella: For a dairy-free version

Pairing and Serving Ideas

• Simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Roasted vegetables on the side
• A glass of sparkling water with lemon or light red wine
• Garlic knots made from leftover dough

Kid-Friendly Adaptations

• Make mini pizzas with personalized toppings
• Let kids spread the sauce or place the cheese
• Use cookie cutters for fun shapes

Make-Ahead Tips

• Dough: Can be made ahead and refrigerated up to 48 hours
• Sauce: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days
• Pre-bake crusts: Partially bake crusts for 5 minutes, cool, and freeze for fast weeknight pizza

How to Store and Reheat

• Fridge: Store leftover slices in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Freezer: Freeze whole or sliced pizza in layers with parchment
• Reheat: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes or air-fry until crisp

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this without a bread machine? Yes. Mix the dough by hand or in a stand mixer, then knead and let rise until doubled in size (about 1-2 hours).

Can I use dried basil? Fresh basil is best, but dried basil can be sprinkled after baking in a pinch.

What’s the best way to prevent soggy pizza? Use minimal sauce and preheat your baking surface thoroughly.

The Magic of Homemade Pizza

Making Margherita pizza from scratch is about more than just a meal. It’s about the experience: the aroma of dough baking, the joy of sharing a hot, melty slice, and the pride in serving something made with care. At Best Bread Machine, we believe those small kitchen moments are what make home cooking meaningful.

This recipe lets you bring a touch of Italy into your home with ease and warmth. Whether it’s a quiet dinner or a weekend get-together, Margherita pizza with fresh basil brings everyone to the table.

Conclusion

Margherita pizza is timeless, flavorful, and rewarding. With simple steps and quality ingredients, you can make a pizza that feels special, tastes amazing, and fits seamlessly into your busy life.

From the homemade dough to the vibrant basil, every bite is a reminder that delicious doesn’t have to be complicated.