If there’s one dish that can instantly brighten up your dinner table and your taste buds, it’s Pesto Pizza. Each bite delivers a symphony of herbaceous basil, gooey cheese, and golden crust, with sweet bursts of tomato and a fresh basil finish. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just need an easy weeknight meal, this Pesto Pizza is equal parts impressive and effortless—the kind you’ll reach for again and again once you taste how beautifully the flavors meld.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need a mile-long ingredient list to make something unforgettable—sometimes, it’s about selecting just the right elements to let each shine. Every part of this Pesto Pizza brings its own magic, from creamy cheeses to peppery basil, so choose the freshest ingredients you can find for the brightest color and flavor.
- Pizza Dough: The foundation for your pizza—homemade or store-bought both work beautifully; just make sure it’s fresh and at room temperature to roll out easily.
- Basil Pesto: This vibrant, garlicky sauce wakes up every bite; use homemade if you can, but a quality jarred pesto still brings loads of flavor.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Offers that coveted melty, stretchy finish that makes pizza irresistible.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty depth and caramelizes beautifully on top as it bakes.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Halved for juicy bursts of sweetness and a pop of color.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced for just the right amount of sharpness and a little crunch.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: Layered on after baking for a bright, aromatic hit in every mouthful.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle at the end ties everything together and gives the pizza a glossy finish.
- Salt and Pepper: A quick final seasoning brings the flavors into perfect balance.
- Optional: Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For a gentle heat that elevates every slice.
How to Make Pesto Pizza
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prep the Surface
Start by turning your oven up to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, set it in the oven now to heat—this will help you achieve that gorgeous crispy bottom. Otherwise, a sturdy baking sheet works just fine. Let everything preheat while you prep the dough, so it’s as hot as possible once you’re ready to bake.
Step 2: Roll and Shape the Pizza Dough
Sprinkle a clean surface lightly with flour and roll out your pizza dough into a 12-inch round. Don’t stress about getting a perfect circle—rustic edges are part of the charm! Set your rolled-out dough onto a piece of parchment paper for easy transfer and a no-stick guarantee.
Step 3: Spread on the Basil Pesto
Grab that gorgeous basil pesto and slather it generously over your dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust to puff up golden. You’ll smell the fragrant basil and garlic right away, setting the stage for the flavors to come.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Veggies
Sprinkle an even layer of shredded mozzarella all over the pesto, then follow up with the grated Parmesan for salty, nutty complexity. Scatter halved cherry tomatoes and those wispy red onion slices across the top. Together, they bring a tangy sweetness and a subtle crunch that perfectly balance the creamy cheese and herby base.
Step 5: Bake Pesto Pizza to Perfection
This is the magic moment! Slide the pizza (still on its parchment) onto your hot stone or baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust turns golden-brown and the cheese is beautifully bubbling. Your kitchen will smell absolutely irresistible by now!
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
Once baked, drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top while the pizza is still hot. Scatter on plenty of fresh basil leaves, season lightly with salt and pepper, and sprinkle on some crushed red pepper flakes if you crave a touch of heat. Slice up your Pesto Pizza and enjoy while it’s warm and melty!
How to Serve Pesto Pizza
Garnishes
A shower of torn fresh basil right before serving makes every slice feel like summer, no matter the season. If you’re feeling extra fancy, a little more grated Parmesan or a dash of crushed red pepper adds fragrance or a flash of heat—small touches, big impact!
Side Dishes
This Pesto Pizza pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad (think peppery arugula with lemon), a refreshing cucumber salad, or even some marinated olives. If you’re looking to amp up the comfort food vibe, serve it alongside a bowl of tomato soup for that classic pizza-night coziness.
Creative Ways to Present
Hosting friends? Cut your Pesto Pizza into small squares or strips and serve as an appetizer alongside a trio of dipping sauces (think more pesto, garlic butter, or balsamic glaze). Or, try topping each slice with a dollop of ricotta for a creamy finish at family gatherings!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftover Pesto Pizza, let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days, making for a fantastic lunch or snack. The flavors are just as lovely (if not even more pronounced) the next day!
Freezing
To freeze, let your pizza cool, then wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or use airtight freezer bags. Frozen slices will keep their flavor for up to two months—when a pizza craving hits, you’re already halfway to dinner.
Reheating
For the crispiest results, reheat your Pesto Pizza in a 375°F oven for 7–10 minutes straight from the fridge (a little longer from frozen). Microwaving works in a pinch, but the oven method keeps the crust snappy and the cheese melty, just as it should be.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of mozzarella?
Absolutely! Fontina, provolone, or even a little goat cheese work beautifully. Just make sure the cheese melts well and complements the pesto’s bright flavors.
What if I don’t have a pizza stone?
No worries—a sturdy, preheated baking sheet does a great job. Baking on parchment makes the transfer and cleanup a breeze.
Is it okay to use jarred pesto?
Definitely—jarred pesto is a great timesaver, and there are plenty of quality brands. If you have the time, homemade pesto adds an extra-fresh flavor, but both will make a delicious Pesto Pizza.
Can I add extra toppings?
Yes, and that’s part of the fun! Artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, and even cooked chicken all play well with pesto. Just be mindful not to overload the pizza to keep it crisp.
How do I keep the crust crispy?
Preheating your stone or baking sheet is key, and rolling the dough on the thinner side helps too. For added crunch, try par-baking the dough for 5 minutes before adding your toppings.
Final Thoughts
This Pesto Pizza is one of those dishes that feels a little special no matter when you make it. The colors make it pop at the table, and the bold, fresh flavors will have everyone reaching for a second slice. If you’re craving a meal that’s bright, flavorful, and full of comfort, make this your next pizza night star!
Print
Pesto Pizza Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delicious flavors of a homemade Pesto Pizza with a crispy crust topped with basil pesto, melted mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil. This easy-to-make pizza is perfect for a cozy night in or a casual get-together with friends.
Ingredients
Pizza Dough:
- 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Pesto:
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
Cheese:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Toppings:
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/4 red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
- Prepare the Dough: Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a 12-inch round. Transfer the dough to a piece of parchment paper.
- Add Toppings: Spread the basil pesto evenly over the dough, leaving a small border. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Add cherry tomatoes and red onion slices.
- Bake the Pizza: Carefully transfer the pizza onto the preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle with olive oil, garnish with basil leaves, season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- You can use store-bought or homemade pesto for convenience.
- Customize with additional toppings like cooked chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts.
- For a crispier crust, pre-bake the dough for 5 minutes before adding toppings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
