Description
This Cheesy Basil and Garlic Pizza is a crave-worthy, easy dinner or quick lunch idea that’s bursting with rich, melted mozzarella, roasted garlic aroma, and the fresh herbal brightness of basil. It’s a fast, no-fuss recipe that still delivers pizzeria-quality flavor—perfect for weeknight meals, casual gatherings, or even as a comforting snack. Whether you’re hunting for new dinner ideas or a quick fix for your pizza craving, this easy recipe checks all the boxes with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor.
Ingredients
1 ball pizza dough (10–12 inch size)
1 1/4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
3 tablespoons garlic-infused olive oil or 2 cloves garlic finely minced + 3 tablespoons olive oil
6 to 8 fresh basil leaves
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Pinch sea salt
Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Cornmeal or flour for dusting surface
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C), placing a pizza stone or inverted baking sheet inside.
2. Lightly flour a surface and stretch dough to a 10–12 inch round, leaving edges slightly thicker.
3. Combine garlic and olive oil, letting it infuse for 5–10 minutes (or sauté for smoother flavor).
4. Place shaped dough on a floured pizza peel. Brush garlic oil over the surface generously.
5. Sprinkle sea salt, then top evenly with mozzarella, basil leaves, and Parmesan if using.
6. Bake for 9–12 minutes until crust is golden and cheese is bubbling with brown spots.
7. Let the pizza rest for 2–3 minutes after baking before slicing.
8. Slice, garnish with more basil if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
Use a hot oven and preheated stone or pan to achieve a crisp bottom.
Avoid overloading with cheese to prevent sogginess in the center.
Let the pizza cool slightly before slicing to preserve its shape.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 25mg