Cheesy Basil & Garlic Pizza Recipe

If you are searching for a mouthwatering, comforting dish that brings the fresh flavors of garden basil and fragrant garlic together with a luscious cheese blend, the Cheesy Basil & Garlic Pizza Recipe is exactly what you need. This pizza is a harmonious trio of crisp crust, creamy melted cheese, and vibrant basil, all wrapped in the irresistible aroma of garlic. It’s perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying a cozy night in, combining simplicity with gourmet charm in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cheesy Basil & Garlic Pizza Recipe requires simple ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Each plays a crucial role in creating perfect dough, rich flavor, and that inviting golden crust you crave.

• 1 and 1/3 cups warm water (at about 110°F): Essential to activate the yeast so your dough rises beautifully.
• 2 and 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast: This is what gives your dough that light and airy texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar: Helps kickstart the yeast fermentation for a lively dough.
• 3 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of your dough, providing structure and chewiness.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness to the dough and creates a wonderfully crisp crust.
• 3/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and enhances both dough and toppings.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the dough itself with a subtle, irresistible garlic aroma.
• 1 and 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Brings that gooey, stretchy cheese pull everyone loves.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty character that complements the mozzarella perfectly.
• Fresh basil leaves: Bursts of herbal freshness and beautiful green color on each slice.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Delivers a pungent, earthy depth spread across the pizza.
• Cornmeal: Sprinkled on the baking surface to prevent sticking and give a crispy, rustic finish to the crust.

How to Make Cheesy Basil & Garlic Pizza Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by combining the warm water, yeast, and sugar in a small bowl. Let this sit for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy—this lively foam means your yeast is active and ready to work its magic. This foundation sets the stage for a tender, airy crust.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your flour, garlic powder, and salt. The garlic powder subtly infuses the dough with savory flavor that shines through the final pizza.

Step 3: Bring the Dough Together

Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the yeast mixture, along with the olive oil. Stir gently until it begins to form a cohesive dough. The olive oil not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the crust and create a golden finish.

Step 4: Knead Until Smooth

Turn your dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5 to 7 minutes. This process develops the gluten, giving your dough the elasticity needed for a chewy, satisfying bite.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour. You’ll know it’s ready when it doubles in size, fluffy and full of promise.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

While your dough rises, preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). Sprinkle cornmeal on your baking sheet or pizza stone to prevent sticking and add a rustic crunch to the crust.

Step 7: Shape the Dough

Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface until it reaches about 12 to 14 inches in diameter. This size is perfect for sharing and ensures a crust that’s just right—crispy on the edges, soft in the middle.

Step 8: Assemble with Care

Transfer the rolled-out dough to your prepared baking surface. Then, evenly scatter the minced garlic over the dough for bursts of pungent flavor. Next, sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the surface, followed by torn fresh basil leaves. Finish by generously layering the remaining cheese, ensuring every slice gets that creamy, cheesy goodness.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Slide your pizza into the hot oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the crust is golden and the cheese bubbles with browned edges. This is the moment when all those simple ingredients transform into something truly magical.

Step 10: Final Touches

Once out of the oven, let your pizza cool for a few minutes. Then garnish with more fresh basil leaves and, if you like, a delicate drizzle of olive oil for an extra layer of richness and shine.

How to Serve Cheesy Basil & Garlic Pizza Recipe

Garnishes

Adding fresh basil leaves after baking keeps their vibrant flavor and color alive, creating a fresh contrast to the melted cheese. A light drizzle of olive oil enhances the richness and adds a glossy finish that makes each slice irresistible.

Side Dishes

This pizza pairs beautifully with a crisp mixed green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette, balancing the cheese’s richness. For a heartier meal, roasted garlic and herb potatoes or a simple antipasto platter complement the Italian-inspired flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving individual slices on wooden platters with little bowls of chili flakes, extra Parmesan, and olive oil so guests can personalize their bites. For a more festive touch, you can also add cherry tomatoes or arugula after baking for extra freshness and a pop of color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in foil or store in an airtight container. Keep your pizza in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This prevents the crust from becoming soggy and keeps the cheese fresh.

Freezing

You can freeze baked pizza slices by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. This method preserves flavor and texture for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To bring your pizza back to life, reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes, or on a stovetop in a non-stick pan over medium heat to keep the crust crisp and melt the cheese perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder in the dough?

While you can substitute fresh garlic for garlic powder, garlic powder is ideal in the dough because it disperses flavor evenly without adding moisture that could affect the dough’s texture.

What if I don’t have cornmeal for the baking sheet?

If you don’t have cornmeal, you can use flour to dust your baking surface. Just keep in mind that cornmeal adds a subtle crunch and prevents sticking more effectively.

How thick should I roll out the dough?

Rolling the dough to about 12 to 14 inches diameter typically results in a medium thickness crust that’s crispy on the edges and soft inside, but feel free to adjust based on your preference.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator. This slow fermentation enhances flavor and texture, making your Cheesy Basil & Garlic Pizza Recipe even more delicious.

Is it possible to make this pizza gluten-free?

Yes, but you will need to use a gluten-free flour blend designed for pizza dough and adjust your liquid ratios as per the flour instructions to get a similar texture and taste.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Basil & Garlic Pizza Recipe is one of those special dishes that feels both indulgent and fresh, capturing the comforting warmth of homemade pizza with a vibrant twist. I really hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy every cheesy, garlicky, basil-filled bite as much as I do. It’s a beautiful way to bring friends and family together around an irresistibly delicious meal.

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