Classic Neapolitan Margherita Pizza with Fresh Basil

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · 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.

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.

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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