Name: Homemade Margherita Pizza with Fresh Basil and San Marzano Tomatoes Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 (28-ounce) can whole San Marzano tomatoes; 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling; 2 small garlic cloves; ½ teaspoon sea salt; Cornmeal, for stretching the dough; 1 pound Pizza Dough, store-bought or homemade; 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, torn or thinly sliced; Fresh basil leaves; Red pepper flakes, for sprinkling

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 56 reviews

If you are craving a pie that sings with fresh flavors and simple ingredients, the Homemade Margherita Pizza with Fresh Basil and San Marzano Tomatoes Recipe is your perfect companion. This pizza is an absolute celebration of quality — where the sweetness of San Marzano tomatoes meets the creamy softness of fresh mozzarella, all brightened by the aromatic punch of fresh basil. It’s a dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests, proving that sometimes less really is more in the most delicious way.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows pizza-making ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. At the bottom left, there is a round ball of dough dusted with flour on a brown plate. To the right, fresh green basil leaves and a round ball of white mozzarella sit on a white plate lined with brown paper. Above the dough, a clear glass bottle with olive oil and a cork stopper is placed. At the top left, a can of whole peeled tomatoes with red tomato balls inside is open. Nearby, three peeled garlic cloves and one partial garlic bulb lie next to a small white bowl filled with red pepper flakes. To the right, a brown bowl holds a mound of yellow cornmeal with a metal scoop inside. A striped red and white cloth is partially visible at the bottom right. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for just a handful of essential ingredients that each play a starring role for authenticity and balance. Every component boosts the pizza’s signature texture, taste, and vibrant color, ensuring a homemade pizza experience that rivals any pizzeria.

28-ounce can whole San Marzano tomatoes: A must-have for a rich, naturally sweet tomato sauce with a perfect tang.
2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil: Adds depth and a silky finish to the sauce and final drizzle.
2 small garlic cloves: Infuses the sauce with a gentle, savory warmth.
½ teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the freshness.
Cornmeal: Used for dusting the baking sheet to give the pizza base a slight crisp and prevent sticking.
1 pound pizza dough: Choose homemade or store-bought for a soft, chewy crust that holds all the toppings beautifully.
8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese: Torn or sliced, it melts into creamy pools that contrast delightfully with the sauce.
Fresh basil leaves: The star herb that brightens every slice with its vibrant aroma and color.
Red pepper flakes: Optional but highly recommended for a subtle kick to awaken the palate.

How to Make Homemade Margherita Pizza with Fresh Basil and San Marzano Tomatoes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

Start by blending the whole San Marzano tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, and sea salt in a food processor until the mixture is smooth and luscious. This sauce is the heartbeat of your pizza — simple but packed with fresh, deep flavor.

Step 2: Shape the Dough

Dust your baking sheet generously with cornmeal to prevent sticking and give a hint of crunch to the crust edges. Stretch your pizza dough into a large oval shape right on the baking sheet. The dough’s texture lends the perfect airy chew after baking.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza

Spread about half a cup of your homemade tomato sauce evenly over the stretched dough, leaving a one-inch border to create a lovely crust edge. Next, scatter torn or sliced fresh mozzarella pieces across the sauce, preparing for that irresistible melt.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Slide the assembled pizza into a 500°F oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the crust turns golden brown and crisp while the mozzarella bubbles and softens into creamy deliciousness. The high heat quickly finishes the pizza for that authentic pizzeria texture.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Basil and Olive Oil

Once out of the oven, immediately top your pizza with vibrant fresh basil leaves. Add a pinch or two of red pepper flakes for warmth if you like, and finish by drizzling extra virgin olive oil over the entire pie for that final glossy touch that bursts with flavor.

How to Serve Homemade Margherita Pizza with Fresh Basil and San Marzano Tomatoes Recipe

The image shows a pizza cut into six slices laid on parchment paper over a white marbled surface. The pizza has a golden-brown crust with a layer of melted light yellow cheese that looks stretchy. There are patches of red tomato sauce visible through the cheese, and fresh bright green basil leaves are scattered on top of each slice and around the pizza. A woman's hand is lifting one slice, slightly stretching the cheese from the rest of the pizza. The background includes a beige and red striped cloth partially in view. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh basil is the signature garnish here, lending the pizza its signature fresh aroma and taste a little extra bright. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan or a scattering of microgreens if you want to add a delicate crunch and savory edge.

Side Dishes

Pair this pizza with a crisp green salad tossed in a light lemon vinaigrette or simple garlic-roasted vegetables to complement the richness and keep things balanced. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon also makes a refreshing accompaniment.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this Margherita pizza on a rustic wooden paddle or slate platter for a bit of artisanal charm. Slice it into sharing-friendly pieces and place small ramekins of extra chili flakes and olive oil nearby, inviting everyone to customize each slice to their liking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Margherita pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To preserve the fresh basil flavor, it’s best to add the leaves fresh after reheating.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked pizza slices by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. For best texture, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat slices in a hot oven or toaster oven at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes to bring back the crispy crust and melty cheese. Avoid microwaving, which can make the crust soggy and compromise that delightful texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular canned tomatoes instead of San Marzano?

While you can, San Marzano tomatoes have a unique sweetness and low acidity that really elevates the sauce’s flavor, making them well worth seeking out for an authentic taste.

Is it necessary to use fresh mozzarella for this recipe?

Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully and offers creaminess that pre-shredded versions often lack, so it’s highly recommended to maintain the dish’s signature texture and flavor balance.

Can I make the pizza dough from scratch?

Absolutely! Homemade dough can add a personal touch. Just make sure it’s well rested and stretched properly to get that perfect chewy crust.

How important is the high oven temperature?

Very important! Baking at 500°F mimics traditional pizza ovens, giving you a crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese in just minutes.

Can I add other toppings to this Margherita pizza?

The classic Margherita shines in its simplicity, but if you want, add a few extras like olives or mushrooms sparingly so the fresh basil and tomato flavor still stand out.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about crafting a Homemade Margherita Pizza with Fresh Basil and San Marzano Tomatoes Recipe from scratch — it not only fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas but brings joy to every bite shared. Don’t hesitate to dive in and savor the vibrant freshness and classic simplicity that make this pizza a timeless favorite. You’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again!