Homemade Margherita Pizza – Easy 20-Minute Recipe for Busy Nights!
There’s something truly special about making homemade Margherita pizza from scratch. With its crisp yet chewy crust, simple tomato base, melted mozzarella, and fresh herbs, Margherita pizza proves that you don’t need complicated ingredients to create something incredibly satisfying. This easy homemade pizza recipe comes together in just 20 minutes total, making it perfect for busy weeknights, quick lunches, or casual family dinners.
If you’ve ever thought homemade pizza sounded intimidating, this recipe will completely change your mind. There’s no long rise time, no fancy equipment, and no complicated techniques. Just a bowl, a pan, a hot oven, and a few pantry staples. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, feeding your family, or teaching kids how to make pizza at home, this Margherita pizza recipe is a simple and delicious place to start.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Margherita Pizza
This recipe is designed to be approachable, flexible, and fast—without sacrificing flavor.
- Ready in 20 minutes from start to finish
- No mixer required—everything is mixed by hand
- Minimal ingredients you likely already have
- Perfect size for one 10-inch pizza
- Customizable with extra toppings or store-bought dough
- Kid-friendly and beginner-friendly
Margherita pizza is also a great reminder that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most comforting. A warm slice fresh from the oven, stretchy mozzarella, and fragrant herbs make this pizza a timeless classic.
What Is Margherita Pizza?
Margherita pizza is a traditional Italian pizza that highlights fresh, simple ingredients rather than heavy toppings. Classic versions include:
- Tomato sauce or passata
- Mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
This homemade version keeps that spirit but adapts it for convenience and everyday cooking. Fresh mint is used instead of basil, adding a light, refreshing twist while still staying true to the simplicity Margherita pizza is known for.
Homemade Margherita Pizza Recipe
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
20 minutes
Yield
1 (10-inch) pizza
Ingredients
For the Pizza Dough:
- 1 cup strong bread flour
- 1 tablespoon instant yeast
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup warm water
For the Toppings:
- ⅓ cup passata or tomato sauce
- ½ cup grated mozzarella cheese
- A handful of fresh mint leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Pizza Dough
Start by adding the strong bread flour to a medium mixing bowl. Stir in the instant yeast and salt, making sure everything is evenly combined.
Pour in 1 cup of warm water along with the olive oil. Using a spoon or your hands, mix everything together until a rough dough begins to form. Once it comes together, lightly knead the dough in the bowl or on a floured surface for a few minutes until smooth.
This dough does not require a long kneading time—just enough to bring it together into a soft, workable ball.
2. Shape the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Using your hands or a rolling pin, roll the dough into a large round shape.
Place the dough onto a 10-inch round pizza pan, gently pressing it out toward the edges to form an even base. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly round—rustic pizzas are part of the charm.
3. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F. A hot oven is key to getting a crisp pizza crust in a short amount of time.
If you have a pizza stone, you can preheat it in the oven and carefully transfer the dough to it for an even crispier base—but a regular pizza pan works perfectly for this recipe.
4. Add the Toppings
Spread the passata or tomato sauce evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.
Sprinkle the grated mozzarella evenly over the sauce, then scatter the fresh mint leaves on top.
This minimalist approach allows each ingredient to shine without overpowering the pizza.
5. Bake the Pizza
Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Every oven is slightly different, so keep an eye on the pizza during the last couple of minutes.
6. Slice and Enjoy
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy your homemade Margherita pizza fresh from the oven.
Tips for the Best Homemade Pizza
Use Homemade or Store-Bought Dough
While homemade dough gives the best flavor and texture, store-bought pizza dough works perfectly if you’re short on time.
Adjust Dough Consistency
If your dough feels too wet or sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour until it becomes easier to handle.
Let the Dough Rise (Optional)
You can let the dough rest or rise for 20–30 minutes if you have time, but it’s not essential for this recipe.
Add Extra Flavor
Thinly sliced sun-dried tomatoes make an excellent addition for a deeper, richer tomato flavor.
Variations and Add-Ins
This homemade Margherita pizza is delicious as written, but it’s also easy to customize.
Extra Cheese
- Fresh mozzarella slices
- Burrata added after baking
- A sprinkle of parmesan for extra depth
Additional Toppings
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Cherry tomatoes
- Caramelized onions
- Olives
Herb Swaps
- Basil instead of mint
- Oregano or thyme
- Arugula added after baking
Serving Ideas
Homemade Margherita pizza pairs well with simple sides:
- Fresh green salad with balsamic dressing
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread or breadsticks
- Sparkling water or lemonade
It also makes a great lunch option or casual dinner when paired with soup or a light appetizer.
Storing and Reheating
Storage
Store leftover pizza slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating
- Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 5–7 minutes
- Or warm in a skillet over medium heat for a crisp base
Avoid microwaving if possible, as it makes the crust tough and too chewy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes. Bread flour gives a chewier texture, but all-purpose flour works well if that’s what you have.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes. Wrap the dough tightly and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. This recipe scales easily if you’re making pizza for more people.
Final Thoughts
This homemade Margherita pizza recipe proves that homemade doesn’t have to mean complicated. With just a handful of ingredients and 20 minutes, you can create a warm, comforting pizza that rivals anything from a restaurant.
Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy lunch, or a fun cooking activity with kids, this pizza is sure to become a regular favorite. Simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable—this is homemade pizza at its best.
If you try this recipe, don’t forget to save it for later and share it with anyone who loves easy, homemade comfort food.
