Go Back
Pizza Margherita ingredients: Italian 00 flour, mozzarella, tomato passata, basil, olive oil, yeast, salt, water.

Pizza Margherita (Authentic Italian Recipe)

Pizza Margherita is the queen of Italian pizzas – a simple yet delicious combination of fresh tomato sauce, mozzarella, and basil leaves on a thin, crispy crust. Originating from Naples, this classic pizza is the ultimate expression of Italian cuisine: fresh, authentic, and timeless.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 260

Ingredients
  

  • For the dough:
  • 500 g Italian 00 flour
  • 325 ml warm water
  • 7 g active dry yeast
  • 10 g salt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • For the topping:
  • 250 g mozzarella (preferably fresh mozzarella)
  • 300 g Mutti tomato passata
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt to taste

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl (for dough)
  • Rolling Pin
  • Oven (preheated)
  • Pizza stone or baking tray

Method
 

  1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, then knead until smooth and elastic (about 8–10 minutes).
  3. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 2 hours or until doubled in size.
  4. Preheat the oven to 250°C (480°F). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat.
  5. Divide the dough into 2 portions. Roll out each portion into a thin circle on a floured surface.
  6. Spread tomato passata evenly on the base, season lightly with salt, and drizzle with olive oil.
  7. Add mozzarella pieces and fresh basil leaves.
    Uncooked Pizza Margherita with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and fresh basil before baking.
  8. Bake for 10–12 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
  9. Serve hot with an extra drizzle of olive oil if desired.
    Authentic Pizza Margherita with golden crust, melted mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves.

Notes

  • For the most authentic result, use Italian 00 flour – it gives the crust the perfect texture.
  • Fresh mozzarella releases water: pat it dry with a paper towel before adding.
  • A pizza stone or steel makes the crust much crispier. If you don’t have one, use a preheated baking tray.
  • For a wood-fired flavor, cook at the highest possible oven temperature.