Cheesy Basil Garlic Pizza

Okay, wow—this Cheesy Basil Garlic Pizza is something else. The smell alone had everyone running to the kitchen. One slice? Nope, I had three.

The mix of melty cheese, fresh basil, and garlic is just perfect. It’s cheesy, gooey, and full of flavor. I make it when I want something fast and fancy.

You don’t need a pizza oven. Just a pan, some love, and simple stuff. Trust me, it’s super easy.

Let’s make pizza night extra yummy. This one’s a keeper. You’re gonna be obsessed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: With just a few pantry staples, this pizza becomes an instant hit.
• Cheesy Goodness: The mozzarella provides that perfect melt, making every bite a gooey delight.
• Fresh Basil: Fresh basil brings a pop of color and flavor, taking this pizza to the next level.
• Perfect for Garlic Lovers: If you love garlic, this is the pizza for you! The combination of garlic cloves and cayenne pepper creates a robust flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheese.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this pizza by adding your favorite toppings or making it as garlicky as you like.
• Quick and Easy: No need for fancy kitchen skills—this pizza comes together in no time.

Required Kitchen Tools

To make this Cheesy Basil Garlic Pizza, you’ll need just a few essential kitchen tools. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need:

• Pizza Stone or Baking Sheet: A pizza stone will give you that crisp, perfect crust, but if you don’t have one, a baking sheet works just as well.
• Rolling Pin: For stretching out the dough to your desired size.
• Large Bowl: For mixing the dough (if making it from scratch) or tossing your ingredients.
• Garlic Press (optional): If you want to mince the garlic cloves easily, a garlic press is your friend.
• Grater: For shredding your mozzarella cheese.
• Oven: For baking the pizza until it’s golden brown and bubbly.
• Knife: To slice the fresh basil and any other optional toppings.

Ingredients

Let’s talk about the ingredients that will make this pizza oh-so-delicious. While you can always add your own creative spin, these are the essentials for that classic cheesy, garlicky, and herby pizza experience.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Pizza Dough:

• Deep Dish Pizza Dough: For a thick, satisfying crust, deep-dish pizza dough is the perfect base. If you prefer a thinner crust, feel free to use regular pizza dough.
• Olive Oil: Adds flavor and moisture to the dough, ensuring it bakes up golden and crispy.
• Salt: Essential for flavoring the dough.

Pizza Toppings:

• Garlic Cloves (fresh, large, and chopped): This is where the magic happens. The garlic will infuse the pizza with bold flavor. You can adjust the quantity depending on how garlicky you like your pizza. (Pro tip: five cloves can be intense, so use 3-4 if you’re cautious about garlic strength!)
• Mozzarella Cheese (grated): Fresh mozzarella provides the best melt, and it’s perfect for this cheesy pizza.
• Fresh Basil (thinly sliced): The fresh basil is a key flavor element. It adds a fresh, slightly peppery contrast to the cheesy goodness.
• Cayenne Pepper: A dash of cayenne gives the pizza a subtle kick without overwhelming the other flavors. This ingredient is optional if you prefer a milder taste.

Optional Toppings (for extra flavor):

• Parmesan Cheese: For an added layer of richness, sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese over the pizza.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onions add a touch of sweetness and crunch.
• Tomato Slices: Fresh tomatoes can bring a refreshing, juicy element to balance the cheese and garlic.
• Olives: If you love olives, they’re a great addition to bring a bit of briney flavor to the pizza.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

The first step is to either prepare or roll out your pizza dough. If you’re using pre-made dough, take it out of the fridge 10 minutes before you plan to use it so it can come to room temperature and be easier to handle. If you’re making your dough from scratch, follow the recipe to create a soft, elastic dough.

Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness, and then transfer it to a greased pizza stone or baking sheet.

2. Prepare the Garlic and Olive Oil Mixture

To infuse the dough with flavor, you’ll need a garlic-infused olive oil mixture. In a small saucepan, heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over low heat. Add your chopped garlic cloves and cook them gently until they become fragrant and slightly golden (about 2-3 minutes). Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can make it taste bitter. Once the garlic is ready, remove it from heat and set it aside to cool slightly.

3. Assemble the Pizza

Brush your pizza dough with the garlic-infused olive oil mixture. Spread it evenly across the surface of the dough, ensuring every part is coated. This will give your crust that delicious garlic flavor from the inside out.

Now it’s time to pile on the cheese! Start by adding a generous layer of grated mozzarella cheese over the garlic oil-covered dough. Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed for a perfect melt.

4. Add Fresh Basil and Seasoning

Scatter the thinly sliced fresh basil leaves over the top of the cheese. The basil will add a refreshing pop of flavor when baked and give the pizza that beautiful, vibrant green color.

Next, season your pizza with a pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, depending on your spice tolerance) and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.

5. Bake the Pizza

This is where the magic happens! Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) to ensure the pizza cooks up with that crispy, golden crust.

Once your oven is preheated, carefully transfer your pizza (on the pizza stone or baking sheet) to the oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and golden, and the edges of the crust are crispy. You can check the pizza’s crust by gently lifting one corner with a spatula — it should have a nice golden-brown color. Keep a close eye on it to make sure the garlic doesn’t burn.

If you like your cheese extra bubbly or browned, leave it in the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, but be careful not to overbake it. The beauty of this pizza is that the combination of the garlic and fresh basil cooks to perfection within a short amount of time, leaving you with an irresistible pie.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once the pizza is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 3-5 minutes before slicing. This rest time will help the cheese firm up just a little bit and make slicing much easier.

Before serving, add an extra handful of fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of color and freshness. If you want a bit more zing, you can also drizzle a tiny bit of olive oil or balsamic glaze over the top. A light dusting of grated Parmesan cheese is also an excellent addition for a little extra richness.

How to Serve Cheesy Basil Garlic Pizza

This pizza can be served in a variety of ways depending on what you’re in the mood for. Here are some ideas for serving your Cheesy Basil Garlic Pizza:

As a Stand-Alone Meal:

• The pizza is already packed with flavor, so serving it as-is is perfect. Pair it with a side salad for a light meal or a hearty soup for a more filling option.

In a Pizza Party Spread:

• If you’re having friends or family over, this pizza pairs perfectly with other gourmet pizzas, a charcuterie board, and a variety of dips. You can make multiple pizzas with different toppings to cater to various tastes.

For Special Occasions:

• Serve this pizza as a unique appetizer at parties or events. It’s elegant, flavorful, and easy to eat with just a napkin, making it a perfect finger food for guests.

Variations for Cheesy Basil Garlic Pizza

While this pizza is delightful on its own, you can always play around with different variations to suit your tastes. Here are a few fun ideas to take your pizza to the next level:

• Add a Protein: If you want to make this pizza more filling, add a protein like grilled chicken, Italian sausage, or bacon. A few slices of prosciutto on top after baking can also add an upscale touch.
• Make it Veggie-Heavy: You can layer on more fresh vegetables like roasted tomatoes, mushrooms, red onions, or bell peppers. This will give the pizza a satisfying, nutritious boost.
• Swap the Mozzarella: For a different cheese experience, try using a combination of mozzarella and provolone, ricotta, or goat cheese. Each offers a unique texture and flavor profile.
• Vegan Version: For a vegan twist, substitute dairy cheese with vegan mozzarella and ensure the pizza dough doesn’t contain dairy (many pizza dough recipes are dairy-free, but it’s always best to check).
• Garlic-Butter Crust: If you’re really into garlic (like I am!), try brushing the pizza crust with a garlic butter mixture before baking for an extra layer of garlic goodness.
• Spicy Touch: To add some heat, sprinkle chili flakes, or even add fresh diced jalapeños or hot peppers on top before baking. The spicy kick will balance perfectly with the rich cheese and garlic.

Storing Cheesy Basil Garlic Pizza

If by some miracle you have leftovers, storing this pizza is easy. You’ll want to make sure it stays fresh and delicious. Here’s how:

Refrigeration:

• Place the leftover pizza slices in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat the pizza in the oven or on a skillet to restore its crispiness. You can also pop it in the microwave, but the crust may not be as crispy.

Freezing:

• You can freeze the pizza slices for up to 3 months. To do this, wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then foil, and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat from frozen in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until hot and crispy.

Nutrition

While pizza can sometimes get a bad rap for being indulgent, this Cheesy Basil Garlic Pizza has plenty of ingredients to balance out the richness, like the fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil. Plus, mozzarella provides a good source of protein and calcium.

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per slice (assuming the pizza is cut into 8 slices):

Nutrient	Per Slice
Calories	~300 kcal
Protein	15 g
Fat	18 g
Carbohydrates	30 g
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	3 g
Sodium	450 mg

Of course, if you add extra toppings like meats or vegetables, these values may vary.

Cheesy Basil Garlic Pizza FAQs

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought pizza dough works perfectly fine. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before you roll it out for the best results. You can find some great options in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores. For a gluten-free version, look for gluten-free pizza dough or try a cauliflower crust for a lighter alternative.

What type of mozzarella is best for this pizza?

Fresh mozzarella is the go-to for this recipe because it melts beautifully and has a mild, creamy flavor that pairs well with the garlic and basil. However, if fresh mozzarella isn’t available, pre-shredded mozzarella works too. Just be sure to drain off any excess moisture from fresh mozzarella before adding it to the pizza to avoid a soggy crust.

Can I make the garlic oil in advance?

Yes, you can make the garlic-infused olive oil ahead of time! Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently before brushing it on the pizza dough to bring the flavors back to life.

How do I prevent the pizza from getting soggy?

To keep your pizza crust crispy, avoid overloading it with too many wet toppings. If you’re adding tomatoes, for example, lightly pat them dry before placing them on the pizza. Also, pre-baking the crust for a few minutes before adding the toppings can help ensure it doesn’t get soggy.

Can I add other herbs to the pizza?

Definitely! While basil is the star of this pizza, feel free to experiment with other herbs like oregano, thyme, or even rosemary. These will add unique flavor profiles and complement the garlic and mozzarella beautifully. Just be mindful not to overpower the basil, as it’s the main flavor that ties everything together.

Can I make this pizza vegan?

Yes, you can make a vegan version of this pizza! Simply swap the mozzarella cheese for a plant-based cheese alternative and ensure your pizza dough is dairy-free. You can also use vegan butter or oil for the garlic-infused oil if needed.

What else can I serve with Cheesy Basil Garlic Pizza?

If you want to serve this pizza with something extra, here are some great ideas:

• A light salad: A simple mixed green salad or an Italian-style arugula salad dressed with olive oil, lemon, and balsamic vinegar pairs perfectly with this pizza.
• Garlic bread: For the ultimate garlic lover, a side of garlic bread with extra herbs is a no-brainer.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers make great accompaniments.
• Drinks: Pair with a nice glass of red wine, like Chianti or a light Pinot Noir, or opt for a chilled sparkling water with a splash of lemon.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Basil Garlic Pizza is everything you want in a pizza: crispy, cheesy, and full of bold flavors. It’s a simple yet indulgent meal that brings a little bit of Italy right into your kitchen. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a special gathering, it’s bound to be a crowd favorite. So next time you’re craving pizza, skip the delivery and make this deliciously cheesy, garlicky pizza yourself!

I hope you’ve enjoyed this recipe and feel inspired to give it a try. Don’t forget to experiment with different toppings, cheeses, and spices to make it your own. And if you do make it, let me know how it turned out! Happy baking, and may every slice be full of flavor!