Description
Ultimate Cheesy Garlic Pizza
Ingredients:
1 pre-made pizza dough or crust
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 tsp dried oregano
1/4 tsp dried parsley
A pinch of salt
Optional: Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions:
Preheat Oven:
Set your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, preheat it in the oven.
Prepare Garlic Butter:
Mix melted butter with minced garlic, dried oregano, parsley, and salt.
Assemble the Pizza:
Roll out the pizza dough and place it on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
Brush the garlic butter generously over the dough.
Evenly sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top.
Bake:
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Finish & Serve:
Drizzle olive oil over the pizza for extra flavor and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Slice and serve hot!
A cheesy masterpiece that’s perfect for pizza night or anytime you crave something garlicky and delightful!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a foolproof, delicious pizza. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped and measured. If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven before preheating. Roll your dough to a 12-inch circle on a lightly floured surface. For a crispier crust, pre-bake the naked dough for 3-4 minutes before adding toppings. This prevents a soggy center. When applying the garlic butter, leave a 1-inch border for the crust. Layer the mozzarella cheese first, then the Parmesan. The finer Parmesan will mix with the melting mozzarella for optimal flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pizza pairs beautifully with lighter sides to balance the meal. Serve alongside a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette. For dipping, offer a side of warm marinara or creamy ranch dressing. To make it a feast, pair with garlic knots or buffalo wings. For a beverage, a crisp lager, chilled sparkling water, or a fruity red wine like Chianti are excellent choices.
How-to Summary
In brief: Preheat oven and stone. Mix melted butter with garlic and herbs. Roll out dough, brush with garlic butter, and top with cheeses. Bake at 475°F for 10-12 minutes until golden. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh garlic instead of minced? Absolutely. Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor. Use a garlic press for a fine mince that distributes evenly.
How can I prevent a soggy pizza crust? Avoid overloading with toppings and ensure your oven is fully preheated. Using a pizza stone or preheating your baking sheet is key for a crispy bottom.
What are the best cheese substitutes? For a different profile, try a blend of provolone and Asiago. For a dairy-free version, use high-moisture vegan mozzarella shreds.
Can I prepare this pizza ahead of time? You can prepare the garlic butter and grate cheeses ahead. Assemble just before baking to prevent the dough from getting soggy.
Why is my cheese browning too quickly? Your oven may be too hot, or the rack is too high. Bake on a middle rack and monitor closely. You can loosely tent with foil if browning too fast.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold dough: Let dough sit at room temperature for 30 minutes for easier stretching.
- Over-applying the garlic butter: Too much will make the crust greasy and prevent it from crisping.
- Adding raw, wet toppings: If adding vegetables like mushrooms, sauté them first to remove excess moisture.
- Opening the oven frequently: This causes heat loss and leads to uneven baking.
- Cutting the pizza immediately: Let it rest for 2-3 minutes after baking for cleaner slices.
Conclusion
This Ultimate Cheesy Garlic Pizza is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary meal. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can achieve a restaurant-quality pizza at home. The combination of savory garlic butter and melted cheeses is universally satisfying. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend project, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!