Classic Margherita Pizza
Cherry Tomatoes

Master the perfect cheese pull with this beginner-friendly Margherita pizza, featuring a 3-minute blistered crust, fresh basil, and sweet cherry tomatoes.

Ingredients

• 250 g pizza dough ball
• 80 ml tomato sauce
• 100 g shredded mozzarella cheese
• 50 g fresh mozzarella chunks
• 6–8 fresh basil leaves
• 6 cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• to taste flour for dusting

Instructions

1. 1Shape the dough balls

   

   Roll each portion of fermented dough into a smooth, tight ball to build surface tension. This process ensures an even rise and makes the dough much easier to stretch into a thin, uniform base later.

   Tip: Keep your hands lightly floured to prevent sticking, but focus on creating a smooth surface without overworking the dough.
2. 2Flatten the dough

   

   Place the raw dough ball onto a clean, floured surface. Use a wooden rolling pin to gradually flatten the dough from the center outwards, creating an even circular base for your toppings.

   Tip: Avoid pressing too hard with the rolling pin as a light, consistent pressure helps maintain the air bubbles in the dough for a better crust.
3. 3Hand-stretch the base

   

   After rolling the dough into a disk, pick it up and use your fingertips to gently stretch the edges outward. Hand-stretching preserves the internal air structure, ensuring a light, bubbly crust during the quick 3-minute bake.

   Tip: If the dough is resistant and springs back, let it rest for five minutes to allow the gluten to relax before you continue stretching.
4. 4Apply the tomato sauce

   

   Ladle a portion of bright red tomato sauce onto the center of your prepared dough base. Using the back of the metal ladle, spread the sauce in a gentle spiral motion toward the edges, leaving a small border for the crust.

   Tip: Fresh tomato sauce is essential for a classic Margherita; try to use high-quality canned San Marzano tomatoes for the best flavor.
5. 5Add the mozzarella cheese

   

   Evenly distribute a generous layer of shredded white mozzarella cheese over the tomato sauce. Ensure the cheese is spread out to provide a consistent mouthfeel and that iconic cheese pull once baked.

   Tip: For the best melt and flavor, use low-moisture mozzarella or fresh mozzarella that has been patted dry.
6. 6Garnish with fresh basil

   

   Carefully place fresh green basil leaves by hand onto the layer of cheese and sauce. This classic addition provides the essential aromatic element that defines a Margherita pizza.

   Tip: If you prefer the basil to stay bright green, you can add some of the leaves immediately after the pizza comes out of the oven.
7. 7Add the cherry tomatoes

   

   Place fresh, halved cherry tomatoes evenly across the top of the pizza. These provide a burst of sweet, acidic flavor and vibrant color that perfectly complements the rich cheese and aromatic basil base.

   Tip: Cut the cherry tomatoes just before adding them to ensure they retain their juice and freshness during the bake.
8. 8Top with fresh mozzarella

   

   Distribute chunks of fresh white mozzarella over the tomatoes and basil. These larger pieces will melt into creamy, indulgent pools, creating the characteristic look and texture of an authentic Margherita pizza.

   Tip: Tear the mozzarella by hand rather than cutting it with a knife for a more rustic appearance and better melting.
9. 9Bake the pizza

   

   Using a metal pizza peel, carefully slide the assembled pizza into a preheated electric deck oven. Bake for approximately 3 minutes until the crust is golden-brown and the cheese is bubbling and perfectly melted.

   Tip: Ensure the oven is fully preheated for at least 30 minutes to achieve a crisp, well-cooked bottom crust.
10. 10Garnish and season

    

    Immediately after removing the pizza from the oven, sprinkle dried Italian seasonings over the hot crust and toppings. The residual heat will bloom the herbs, providing a fragrant and professional finish.

    Tip: A light sprinkle is enough; too much dried seasoning can overpower the fresh flavors of the tomatoes and basil.

Storing & Reheating Leftovers

Burn It Off

Frequently Asked Questions