Fresh Mozzarella and Basil Pizza

Experience the ultimate homemade pizza night with this Fresh Mozzarella and Basil Pizza recipe, a timeless classic that combines simplicity with gourmet flavor. Featuring a handmade pizza dough that's tender yet perfectly crisp, this recipe is elevated by a rich, garlicky tomato sauce and slices of creamy fresh mozzarella that melt to bubbly perfection in the oven. Topped with fragrant basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil, this pizza embodies the essence of authentic Italian cuisine. Ready in just over an hour, it's perfect for a quick weeknight treat or a weekend indulgence. Serve it straight from the oven for a restaurant-quality experience right at home.

Nutriscore Rating: 63/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:12 mins

Total Time:32 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 3.5 cups All-purpose flour
• 2.25 teaspoons Instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon Sugar
• 1.5 teaspoons Salt
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1.25 cups Warm water
• 1 cup Canned crushed tomatoes
• 2 cloves Garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt (for sauce)
• 8 ounces Fresh mozzarella, sliced
• 10 leaves Fresh basil leaves
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil (for drizzling)

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.

Step 2

Add the olive oil and warm water to the dry ingredients, then mix until a sticky dough forms.

Step 3

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 4

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for 60–90 minutes in a warm place until doubled in size.

Step 5

While the dough rises, prepare the tomato sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the crushed tomatoes, minced garlic, dried oregano, and salt. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, then set aside to cool.

Step 6

Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up.

Step 7

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it in half. Roll one portion into a 12-inch circle on a floured surface.

Step 8

Carefully transfer the dough to a sheet of parchment paper for easy handling.

Step 9

Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

Step 10

Top with slices of fresh mozzarella, spacing them out evenly.

Step 11

Using oven mitts, carefully slide the pizza (with the parchment paper) onto the hot pizza stone or baking sheet.

Step 12

Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Step 13

Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately top with fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with a little olive oil before serving.

Step 14

Repeat the process with the remaining dough and toppings. Slice and serve hot.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1263 grams (1263.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2695

Total Fat 95.10g	122%
Saturated Fat 39.30g	197%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 178mg	59%
Sodium 6377mg	277%
Total Carbohydrate 352.50g	128%
Dietary Fiber 18.10g	65%
Total Sugars 23.20g
Protein 98.60g	197%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1308mg	101%
Iron 24mg	136%
Potassium 1545mg	33%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 32.2%

Protein: 14.8%

Carbs: 53.0%