Cast Iron Pizza Margherita Recipe

Picture the scene: a cozy, intimate dinner setting in your own home, with the aroma of fresh basil mixing seamlessly with the melted mozzarella and rich tomato sauce wafting through the air. The sight of a golden, crispy pizza base emerging from a cast iron skillet, ready to serve, is enough to make your heart flutter with excitement. This Cast Iron Pizza Margherita recipe is a perfect nod to the traditional Italian classic, yet simple enough to bring joy and creativity into your everyday family meals. It’s all about sharing, bonding, and creating memorable moments with those we love.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Skill Level: Easy

Ingredients

• 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a cast iron skillet on the stovetop over medium heat and allow it to get hot.
2. Stretch the pizza dough out to roughly the size of the skillet. Be careful not to tear the dough.
3. Once the skillet is hot, brush it with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Carefully place the dough in the skillet, and use a spoon to spread the tomato sauce over the dough evenly.
4. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Turn off the stovetop heat and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
6. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil before slicing and serving.

Helpful Tips

• If using store-bought dough, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before stretching to make it more pliable.
• For a spicier kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the pizza before serving.

Storage Instructions and Ingredient Substitutions

• Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm and crisp.
• If you can’t find fresh basil, dried basil can be used, though the flavor will be less vibrant. You can also substitute the fresh mozzarella with a good quality shredded mozzarella.

Pairings

• Pair this delightful pizza with a crisp, mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Complement the meal with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or a light Sangiovese.
• For a non-alcoholic option, serve with a sparkling water infused with a slice of lemon.

Bringing creative and heartwarming dishes into your kitchen is what Zynahz is all about. We hope this Cast Iron Pizza Margherita recipe inspires you to gather your loved ones and enjoy the simple pleasures of a home-cooked meal. Remember, the best memories are often made around the dining table. Share your culinary creations with us and let’s make our kitchens a place of joy and creativity. Stay connected by exploring more recipes, following our social media, and signing up for our newsletter.