Description
Indulge in a slice of heaven with this Cheesy Basil & Garlic Pizza. The golden, crispy crust is topped with a blend of melted mozzarella and sharp Parmesan cheese, accented by fresh basil and the irresistible aroma of garlic. Perfect for any pizza lover, this pizza is a delicious balance of savory, herby, and cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
- 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
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.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, and salt.
- Make a well in the center, and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix to form a dough.
- Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Pizza:
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
- Sprinkle a baking sheet or pizza stone with cornmeal to prevent sticking.
- Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into your desired pizza shape (about 12-14 inches in diameter).
- Transfer the rolled dough to the prepared baking sheet or pizza stone.
- Assemble the Pizza:
- Mince the garlic cloves and scatter them evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses across the pizza base.
- Tear fresh basil leaves and scatter them on top of the cheese for added flavor and color.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the pizza.
- Bake the Pizza:
- Transfer the pizza to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and lightly browned.
- Remove the pizza from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves before slicing and serving. Optionally, drizzle a little olive oil on top for extra richness.
Notes
- You can substitute the fresh basil for dried basil if fresh basil is unavailable, but fresh basil adds the most flavor and aroma.
- To make the dough ahead of time, you can refrigerate the dough after the first rise. Just let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
- For a spicier version, consider adding red pepper flakes to the pizza before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (not including dough rising time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Pizza
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian