Neapolitan pizza Recipe is the ultimate expression of simplicity and tradition, crafted with just a few high-quality ingredients. Known for its thin, soft crust with a slight char, rich San Marzano tomato sauce, and fresh mozzarella, this Italian classic delivers bold, authentic flavors in every bite.
While traditional Neapolitan pizza is baked in a wood-fired oven, you can easily replicate its signature taste and texture at home with the right techniques. In this guide, you’ll learn how to prepare the perfect dough, create a flavorful sauce, and bake your pizza to perfection—even in a standard kitchen oven. Whether you’re a pizza enthusiast or making it for the first time, this step-by-step recipe will bring the taste of Naples right to your table!
Table of Contents
How to Make Authentic Neapolitan Pizza at Home
Why You’ll Love Neapolitan Pizza Recipe
- Uses simple, high-quality ingredients for authentic flavor.
- The dough is light, airy, and slightly chewy with a perfect crisp.
- No special oven needed—adapted for home kitchens.
- Quick and easy to prepare once the dough is ready.
- Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a fun cooking experience.
Ingredients of Neapolitan Pizza Recipe
Main Ingredients
- Pizza dough
- San Marzano tomatoes
- Fresh mozzarella (preferably buffalo mozzarella)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Sea salt
Optional Garnishes
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Red pepper flakes
- Oregano
Equipment
- Pizza stone or baking steel
- Mixing bowls
- Dough scraper
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Kitchen scale
Utensils
- Wooden pizza peel or baking sheet
- Large spoon or ladle for spreading sauce
- Sharp knife for cutting toppings
- Pizza cutter
Variations for Neapolitan Pizza Recipe
- Classic Margherita – Stick to tomato sauce, mozzarella, basil, and olive oil.
- White Neapolitan Pizza – Replace the tomato sauce with a mix of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
- Spicy Version – Add red pepper flakes and a drizzle of chili-infused olive oil.
- Meat Lover’s – Top with thinly sliced prosciutto or spicy salami.
- Vegetarian – Add sliced mushrooms, roasted peppers, or zucchini for extra flavor.
How to Make Neapolitan Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
On a clean, floured surface, stretch the pizza dough into a thin, round shape using your hands. Avoid using a rolling pin to maintain the airy texture. Let it rest for a few minutes.
Step 2: Add the Sauce
Spread a thin layer of San Marzano tomato sauce onto the dough using a ladle or spoon. Leave about half an inch of space around the edges for the crust.
Step 3: Add Toppings
Tear fresh mozzarella into small pieces and scatter evenly over the sauce. Add a few fresh basil leaves for flavor. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil on top.
Step 4: Bake the Pizza
Preheat your oven to the highest setting (at least 500°F). Place the pizza on a preheated pizza stone or baking steel and bake for 6-8 minutes until the crust is golden with slight charring.
Tips and Tricks
- Use 00 flour for an authentic, soft, yet crispy dough.
- Let the dough rest for at least 24 hours in the fridge for better texture.
- If you don’t have a pizza stone, use an upside-down baking sheet.
- Avoid overloading with toppings to maintain the perfect balance of flavors.
How to Serve
- Enjoy fresh out of the oven with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
- Pair with a simple arugula salad and a glass of red wine for a true Italian experience.
- Slice into even portions and serve with a side of garlic butter dip for extra flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Dough: Can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Sauce: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
- Leftovers: Wrap slices in foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
FAQs
Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of 00 flour?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly chewier. 00 flour gives the best results.
Do I need a pizza oven to make Neapolitan pizza?
No, a regular oven at the highest temperature works well with a pizza stone.
How do I prevent my pizza from sticking to the stone?
Dust your pizza peel or baking sheet with flour or cornmeal before placing the dough on it.
Conclusion
Making Neapolitan pizza at home is easier than you think. With simple ingredients and a few key techniques, you can enjoy restaurant-quality pizza anytime. Try this recipe and experience the authentic taste of Italy.
If you’re a fan of authentic Italian flavors, making Neapolitan pizza at home is a must-try experience. With its perfectly charred crust, rich tomato sauce, and fresh mozzarella, this recipe brings the taste of Naples right to your kitchen. For a well-rounded meal, pair your pizza with a hearty Smoked Turkey Breast for a protein-packed side or try something indulgent like this creamy Philly Cheesesteak Pasta for a comforting and satisfying dinner. Whether you’re hosting a pizza night or just craving something delicious, these dishes are sure to impress!
Neapolitan pizza is more than just a meal—it’s a piece of Italian culinary history. Originating from Naples, Italy, this pizza is known for its thin, soft crust with a signature charred edge, achieved through high-temperature baking. The dough follows strict guidelines set by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN), ensuring authenticity in every bite. A key ingredient in this recipe is San Marzano tomatoes, prized for their natural sweetness and low acidity, making them the perfect base for a rich and flavorful sauce. Whether you’re a pizza enthusiast or a home cook looking to master this classic dish, understanding its roots adds even more appreciation to every slice!
Neapolitan Pizza Recipe
Ingredients
Pizza Dough
- 2 cups 00 flour finely milled
- 3/4 cup water lukewarm
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
Toppings
- 1/2 cup San Marzano tomatoes blended into sauce
- 4 ounces fresh mozzarella torn into pieces
- 5 leaves fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- On a floured surface, stretch the pizza dough into a thin, round shape using your hands. Let it rest for a few minutes.
- Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce onto the dough using a spoon or ladle, leaving a small border for the crust.
- Evenly distribute fresh mozzarella over the sauce. Add fresh basil leaves and drizzle with olive oil.
- Preheat your oven to 500°F. Bake the pizza on a pizza stone or baking steel for 6-8 minutes until the crust is golden with slight charring.
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