Classic Neapolitan Margherita Pizza with Fresh Basil

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A traditional Neapolitan pizza with a tender crust topped with tangy tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and aromatic basil leaves. This italian-inspired pizza (vegetarian) ready in about 34 minutes pairs 00 flour, warm water, active dry yeast for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 480 calories and feeds 2, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 25 min Cook: 9 min Serves 2 Italian cuisine 480 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups 00 flour, 1 tsp active dry yeast, and 1 tsp salt. Gradually add 3/4 cup warm water and 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, mixing until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.
  2. Step 2: Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C) with a pizza stone inside for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Step 3: Roll out dough on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle. Place on a pizza peel or parchment paper. Spread 1/2 cup crushed San Marzano tomatoes evenly, leaving a 1-inch border.
  4. Step 4: Distribute 125 g sliced fresh mozzarella cheese evenly over the tomato sauce. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt.
  5. Step 5: Bake on the hot stone for 7-9 minutes until the crust is puffed and lightly charred and cheese is melted.
  6. Step 6: Remove from oven, immediately scatter 10 fresh basil leaves on top for fragrance and flavor. Slice and serve hot.

Equipment for this recipe

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Classic Neapolitan Margherita Pizza with Fresh Basil take to make?

Total time is about 34 minutes (25 min prep + 9 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover Classic Neapolitan Margherita Pizza with Fresh Basil?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep 00 flour from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Classic Neapolitan Margherita Pizza with Fresh Basil?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Classic Neapolitan Margherita Pizza with Fresh Basil for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Classic Neapolitan Margherita Pizza with Fresh Basil vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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