If you love the comforting combination of rich cheese, fragrant basil, and bold garlic, then this Cheesy Basil & Garlic Pizza Recipe is about to become your new favorite! It’s a wonderfully simple yet irresistibly delicious homemade pizza that combines a perfectly tender dough with melt-in-your-mouth mozzarella, tangy Parmesan, and fresh basil, all brightened by the savory punch of garlic. Whether you’re a pizza pro or a kitchen novice, this recipe brings all the classic flavors right to your countertop, promising a warm, cheesy slice of pure happiness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Cheesy Basil & Garlic Pizza Recipe plays its part in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and aroma. From the yeast that makes the crust beautifully airy to the fresh basil that adds brightness, these simple essentials come together to make a standout pizza.
- 1 and 1/3 cups (320ml) warm water (at about 110°F): Vital for activating the yeast and kickstarting the dough’s rise.
- 2 and 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast: The secret behind a light and airy pizza crust.
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar: Helps the yeast awaken and grow for that fluffy texture.
- 3 and 1/2 cups (440g) all-purpose flour: The sturdy base that holds everything together wonderfully.
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil: Adds richness and crispness to the crust.
- 3/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors in the dough and toppings.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle garlic aroma into every bite of the crust.
- 1 and 1/2 cups (150g) shredded mozzarella cheese: Delivers that gooey, stretchy cheese pull we all crave.
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a sharp, nutty contrast to the mozzarella.
- Fresh basil leaves: Adds bursts of fresh, aromatic flavor and beautiful green color.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Provides pungent, earthy depth right on top of the pizza.
- Cornmeal: Sprinkled on the baking surface for a crispy, non-stick bottom crust.
How to Make Cheesy Basil & Garlic Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by awakening the yeast in warm water with a little sugar until it bubbles up beautifully, signaling it’s ready to work its magic. Then, mix the flour with garlic powder and salt before adding in your foamy yeast mixture and olive oil. Knead the dough on a floured surface until it feels smooth and elastic—this creates that perfect chewiness that defines a great pizza crust. Let it rest in a lightly oiled bowl covered with a damp towel for about an hour or until it doubles in size. Watching the dough rise is like a little baking miracle that sets the tone for the rest of the recipe.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Surface
Preheating your oven to a toasty 475°F (245°C) ensures a crispy crust and beautifully melted cheese. Don’t forget to sprinkle your baking sheet or pizza stone generously with cornmeal to prevent sticking and add that irresistible crunch to the bottom of your pizza. This simple step guarantees that your pizza slides off easily when it’s done.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Once risen, gently deflate the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into your favorite shape—roughly 12 to 14 inches wide is ideal. You want it thin enough to crisp but thick enough to support all those delicious toppings. Transfer it carefully to your prepared pan or stone and get ready to assemble the pizza.
Step 4: Assemble Your Pizza
Minced garlic is your first topping layer, scattered evenly to infuse every bite with robust flavor. Then sprinkle half the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses across the dough, followed by torn fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and fragrance. Finish by layering the remaining cheeses on top, promising a gooey, golden finish in the oven. This layered approach balances flavors and textures in every mouthful.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop your pizza into the preheated oven and bake for about 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye out for a golden crust and bubbly, lightly browned cheese—that’s when you know your pizza is ready to make its grand entrance. Pull it out, let it cool just a few minutes, and get ready to enjoy the fruits of your effort.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Before slicing, adorn the pizza with a few extra fresh basil leaves for vibrant aroma and visual appeal. If you like, drizzle a little olive oil on top for an extra layer of richness that brings every flavor to life. Serve warm and watch how this Cheesy Basil & Garlic Pizza Recipe becomes an instant crowd-pleaser.
How to Serve Cheesy Basil & Garlic Pizza Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh, bright basil leaves are the classic finishing touch that add perfume and a pop of green. You can also sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a subtle kick or add a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil for richness. These simple garnishes elevate the pizza without overpowering its fresh flavors.
Side Dishes
Pair your pizza with a crisp green salad dressed with a light lemon vinaigrette to balance the cheese’s richness. Roasted vegetables or a bowl of your favorite soup can also make for a comforting, well-rounded meal that complements your homemade pizza beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your pizza on a wooden pizza peel for a rustic, inviting look. Cut it into small squares for a party platter or individual slices artistically topped with microgreens or edible flowers. Presentation is half the fun when sharing this delicious Cheesy Basil & Garlic Pizza Recipe with friends or family!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any pizza left, store it in an airtight container or wrap slices tightly with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. This keeps the pizza fresh for up to three days without losing its wonderful flavors and textures.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover pizza by wrapping individual slices tightly in foil or plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When properly stored, frozen pizza stays delicious for up to two months, making it easy to enjoy your Cheesy Basil & Garlic Pizza Recipe anytime.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat slices in a skillet over medium heat with a lid on for a few minutes to revive crispness, or use a conventional oven set at 375°F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that irresistible crispy crust and melty cheese texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Absolutely! If using fresh yeast, use about three times the amount of active dry yeast and dissolve it similarly in warm water. Just adjust the proofing time as needed since fresh yeast tends to work a bit faster.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Definitely. While mozzarella and Parmesan provide the classic gooey and nutty combination, you can experiment with cheeses like fontina, provolone, or even a sprinkle of goat cheese to add your own twist to the Cheesy Basil & Garlic Pizza Recipe.
How do I prevent the pizza dough from getting soggy?
Ensuring your oven is fully preheated and using cornmeal on your baking surface helps create a crispy base. Also, don’t overload the pizza with too many wet toppings, and allow the pizza to cool slightly before slicing.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight. This slow fermentation boosts flavor. Just bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.
What’s the best way to store fresh basil for later?
Wrap fresh basil leaves in a damp paper towel and place them in a loosely closed plastic bag in the refrigerator. For longer storage, consider freezing chopped basil in ice cube trays with a bit of olive oil.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Basil & Garlic Pizza Recipe is a wonderful way to bring the joy of homemade pizza right into your kitchen with fresh, simple ingredients and an unbeatable flavor combo. Whether enjoyed as a solo treat or shared with loved ones, every bite is a reminder that great food is all about warmth, comfort, and a little bit of love. Give it a try and watch your pizza nights become something extra special!
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Cheesy Basil & Garlic Pizza Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 1 large 12-14 inch pizza
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy Basil & Garlic Pizza is a delightful homemade treat featuring a perfectly airy and light dough infused with garlic flavor, topped with a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, fresh basil leaves, and minced garlic. Baked until golden and bubbly, this pizza combines aromatic herbs and cheesy goodness for a satisfying meal that’s easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 and 1/3 cups (320ml) warm water (at about 110°F) – Activates the yeast for a perfect dough rise
- 2 and 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast – Essential for making the dough airy and light
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar – Helps to activate the yeast and kickstart fermentation
- 3 and 1/2 cups (440g) all-purpose flour – Forms the backbone of the pizza dough
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil – Adds richness to the dough and helps with crisping the crust
- 3/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavor of the dough and balances the toppings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Infuses the dough with a subtle garlic flavor
For the Topping
- 1 and 1/2 cups (150g) shredded mozzarella cheese – Provides gooey, melt-in-your-mouth texture
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a sharp, nutty flavor to the cheese blend
- Fresh basil leaves – Freshens up the pizza and adds an aromatic lift
- 2 garlic cloves, minced – Brings a pungent, earthy depth to the pizza
- Cornmeal – To sprinkle on the baking pan to prevent sticking and create a crispy texture
- Optional: Olive oil for drizzling on top
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is activated.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, and salt to evenly distribute the seasonings throughout the dough.
- Combine Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir to form a rough dough.
- Knead the Dough: On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, which develops the gluten for structure.
- Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 475°F (245°C) to ensure it is sufficiently hot for baking a crispy crust.
- Prepare the Baking Surface: Sprinkle cornmeal on a baking sheet or pizza stone to prevent sticking and enhance the bottom crust crispiness.
- Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release air, transfer to a floured surface, and roll it out into a 12-14 inch circle or desired shape.
- Transfer Dough: Carefully place the rolled dough onto the prepared baking sheet or pizza stone.
- Assemble the Pizza: Evenly scatter the minced garlic cloves over the dough, then sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the base. Tear fresh basil leaves and scatter them atop the cheese.
- Add Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the pizza for a luscious cheesy topping.
- Bake the Pizza: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and lightly browned.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes to set the cheese for better slicing.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and optionally drizzle with a little olive oil for extra richness before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Ensure the water is warmed to about 110°F to avoid killing the yeast or slowing yeast activation.
- Kneading is important for a chewy, elastic crust; avoid under-kneading.
- Letting the dough rise until doubled ensures a light, airy crust.
- You can substitute fresh garlic powder with finely minced fresh garlic in the dough for a stronger garlic flavor.
- Using a pizza stone results in a crisper base but a baking sheet works perfectly as well.
- This recipe serves one large pizza approximately 12-14 inches in size; multiply ingredients for more servings.
- For a more intense basil flavor, add some basil to the dough or brush with pesto post-baking.
- Olive oil drizzle at the end is optional but adds richness and shine to the pizza.
