Neapolitan Pizza

There’s something magical about the perfect Neapolitan pizza. With its soft, pillowy crust, fresh toppings, and that irresistible char from the oven, this classic Italian dish is a staple that never goes out of style. Whether you’re hosting a pizza night or simply craving a slice of Italy, mastering the art of Neapolitan pizza will elevate your cooking game. With just a handful of quality ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering pizza that transports you straight to the streets of Naples.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

This Neapolitan pizza recipe embraces simplicity and authenticity. Using Italian “00” flour ensures a beautifully tender crust, while fresh mozzarella and crushed tomatoes bring out vibrant flavors. The balance between the toppings and the crust is what makes this pizza truly special, allowing you to enjoy the essence of each ingredient without overwhelming the palate. Plus, the method of preparation allows for a light and airy crust that is both satisfying and delicious.

Shopping List

• 4 cups (500g) Italian “00” flour
• 2 teaspoons (2.25 teaspoons) kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 1 cup (375ml) water, at room temperature
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 28 ounces (793.79g) can crushed tomatoes
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 16 ounces (453.59g) fresh mozzarella, thinly sliced
• Fresh basil, torn or thinly sliced

Gear Up: What to Grab

• Mixing bowl – for combining the dough ingredients.
• Dough scraper – to assist with kneading and shaping the dough.
• Pizza stone or baking sheet – for achieving that perfect crust.
• Rolling pin – optional, for flattening the dough.
• Oven – preheated to the highest temperature possible.
• Pizza peel – for transferring the pizza to the oven easily.

Neapolitan Pizza in Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the Italian “00” flour and kosher salt. In a separate small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast and granulated sugar in the room temperature water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. Gradually pour the yeast mixture into the flour while mixing with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as you knead.

Step 3: First Rise

Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

While the dough is rising, prepare the pizza sauce. In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes, then remove from heat.

Step 5: Preheat the Oven

As the dough finishes rising, preheat your oven to its highest setting, usually around 500°F (260°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up as well.

Step 6: Shape the Pizza

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 2-4 equal pieces, depending on how large you want your pizzas. On a floured surface, gently stretch each piece into a round shape about 10-12 inches in diameter. Avoid using a rolling pin to maintain the air bubbles in the crust.

Step 7: Assemble the Pizza

Transfer the shaped dough onto a floured pizza peel or baking sheet. Spread a generous amount of the prepared tomato sauce over the base, leaving a small border around the edges. Arrange the sliced fresh mozzarella evenly on top and finish with torn basil leaves.

Step 8: Bake the Pizza

Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for about 8-10 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and slightly charred.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a minute before slicing. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired.

Holiday & Seasonal Touches

• Add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers in the summer for a fresh twist.
• Top with prosciutto or arugula for a gourmet touch during festive gatherings.
• Incorporate different cheeses, such as goat cheese, for a unique flavor profile.
• Experiment with flavored oils, such as chili oil, for a spicy kick.

Learn from These Mistakes

• Don’t rush the dough rising time; this is crucial for developing flavor and texture.
• Using too much flour when shaping the dough can lead to a dry crust.
• Overloading your pizza with toppings can prevent the crust from cooking properly.
• Ensure your oven is fully preheated to get that perfect crispy crust.

How to Store & Reheat

Leftover Neapolitan pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pizza in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. For a crispy crust, consider reheating it in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of “00” flour?

While “00” flour is preferred for its fine texture and ability to create a chewy crust, you can use all-purpose flour. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

What if I don’t have a pizza stone?

If you don’t have a pizza stone, a baking sheet turned upside down can work well. Just make sure it’s preheated to achieve a nice crust.

How do I know when my pizza is done?

Your Neapolitan pizza is done when the crust is golden brown, the cheese is bubbly, and there are slight char marks on the edges. Keep an eye on it as it cooks, as it can go from perfect to burnt quickly!

Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes! You can make the dough ahead of time. After kneading, place it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to use, let it come to room temperature before shaping.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Classic Pepperoni Pizza
• White Pizza with Ricotta and Spinach
• Vegan Pizza with Seasonal Veggies
• Homemade Pizza Dough

Bring It to the Table

Neapolitan pizza is more than just a meal; it’s an experience to be shared with family and friends. Gather around the table, slice up your beautifully crafted pizza, and enjoy the laughter and conversations that accompany a shared meal. This homemade pizza is sure to impress and create lasting memories, whether it’s a casual dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy the flavors of Italy in the comfort of your own home, and remember, the best ingredient is always a pinch of love.