Mozzarella pizza is a beloved classic that combines a perfectly baked crust with the creamy, stretchy goodness of melted mozzarella cheese. This pizza is not only delicious but also provides essential nutrients like protein and calcium from the cheese and beneficial fiber from the crust if you opt for a whole-wheat base. With approximately 300 calories per slice, this pizza makes for a balanced meal that can be easily enjoyed as a family dinner or a crowd-pleasing party treat.
Recipe Overview
- Servings: 4 (8 slices)
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20–25 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup pizza sauce (or marinara sauce)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cornmeal, for dusting
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up. If using store-bought dough, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to make it easier to stretch.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle. For a crispy bottom, sprinkle a bit of cornmeal on the pizza stone or baking sheet before placing the dough on it.
Step 3: Add the Sauce and Seasoning
Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving about an inch around the edges for the crust. Sprinkle a little salt, pepper, and dried oregano over the sauce for added flavor.
Step 4: Top with Mozzarella
Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, making sure it covers the surface evenly. If you enjoy a touch of freshness, add a few basil leaves for extra flavor.
Step 5: Bake the Pizza
Carefully transfer the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. For an extra crispy crust, bake for an additional 2–3 minutes.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Slice and serve hot. For a final touch, drizzle with a little olive oil and garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Tips for a Perfect Mozzarella Pizza
For the best flavor, choose high-quality mozzarella cheese and a pizza sauce with minimal added sugars. Preheating the pizza stone or baking sheet is key to achieving a crispy crust, especially if you prefer thin-crust pizza. Feel free to add toppings like pepperoni, olives, or bell peppers, but avoid overloading the pizza, as this can make it soggy. A few additional seasonings, such as red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning, can also elevate the taste.
Feel free to make small additions or omissions to suit your personal taste.
