Name: Irresistibly Delicious Cheesy Garlic Pizza with Homemade Pesto
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Fresh Basil Leaves (Use bright green leaves for the freshest taste.); 1/4 cup Pine Nuts (Feel free to substitute with walnuts or pecans.); 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (Freshly grated is best for depth of flavor.); 2 cloves Garlic (Use fresh cloves for best results.); 1/2 cup Olive Oil (Extra virgin is recommended.); 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (Adjust based on preference.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Sea salt is preferable.); 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly ground for a lovely kick.); 1 batch Homemade/Store-bought Pizza Dough (Homemade is ideal, store-bought saves time.); 2 tablespoons Cornmeal (Sprinkel on baking surface for a crispy crust.); 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (A generous layer for satisfaction.); 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (Optional for a burst of sweetness.); 1/4 cup Fresh Basil (For garnish.); to taste Extra Pesto/Parmesan/Red Pepper Flakes (Optional for more flavor.)

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Picture this: the delightful scent of roasted garlic and fresh basil filling your kitchen, instantly whisking you away to a sun-drenched Italian terrace. That’s exactly the magic of my Delicious Cheesy Garlic Pizza Recipe with Homemade Pesto. Whether you’re settling in for a cozy date night or hosting a festive family gathering, this pizza is a crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity with gourmet flair. With gooey, melted cheese melting into a vibrant, herbaceous pesto base made from scratch, every bite is a delicious explosion of flavor. Plus, its customizable nature means you can get creative with toppings—from grilled chicken to roasted bell peppers—for a pizza that’s uniquely yours. Let’s dive into this easy recipe and transform your next meal into a remarkable culinary experience!

Why is this Delicious Cheesy Garlic Pizza Recipe a Must-Try?

Simplicity at its Core: The process is easy, perfect for both beginner and seasoned chefs alike.

Vibrant Flavors: The homemade pesto adds a fresh twist, ensuring each bite bursts with herby goodness.

Customizable Delight: Switch up the toppings to suit your taste, whether it’s grilled chicken or seasonal veggies!

Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for cozy nights in or festive gatherings, this pizza is sure to impress family and friends.

Quick to Prep: With minimal prep time, you can whip up this delicious dish and still have time to relax or add a refreshing side like Bruschetta Whipped Ricotta!

Mouthwatering Texture: Experience a crispy crust topped with gooey cheese and a vibrant pesto that takes your meal to a whole new level.

Delicious Cheesy Garlic Pizza Ingredients

For the Pesto

Fresh Basil Leaves – Essential for vibrant flavor; use bright green leaves for the freshest taste.
Pine Nuts – Adds richness; feel free to substitute with walnuts or pecans if needed.
Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated gives the pesto a depth of flavor, enhancing the delicious cheesy garlic pizza.
Garlic – The heart of both pesto and pizza; use fresh cloves for best results.
Olive Oil – Extra virgin is recommended, as it adds moisture and enhances flavors in your pesto.
Lemon Juice – Brightens the overall flavor; adjust based on preference.
Salt – A pinch is essential to heighten all aromas, using sea salt is preferable.
Black Pepper – Freshly ground pepper provides a lovely kick.

For the Pizza

Homemade/Store-bought Pizza Dough – Homemade is the gold standard, but store-bought can save time.
Cornmeal – Sprinkled on your baking surface helps achieve a deliciously crispy crust.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – A generous layer makes every bite ooey-gooey and satisfying.
Cherry Tomatoes (optional) – Adds a burst of sweetness and beautiful color to your pizza.
Fresh Basil (for garnish) – Enhances both flavor and presentation, making it look as good as it tastes.
Extra Pesto/Parmesan/Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Perfect for an extra layer of flavor and a touch of heat!

How to Make Delicious Cheesy Garlic Pizza

Prepare the Pesto: Begin by blending fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and garlic cloves in a food processor. Gradually add olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt, pulsing until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Refrigerate for enhanced flavors.
Dough Prep: If you’re making your own dough, follow your favorite recipe until ready. For store-bought dough, simply roll it out on a floured surface and allow it to rest for a few minutes.
Preheat Oven: While your dough rests, preheat your oven to 475°F (246°C). Give it at least 15 to 20 minutes to ensure a perfectly crispy crust.
Shape Dough: Punch down the dough and roll it out into a roughly 12-inch circle, about ½-inch thick. Be sure to leave a slightly thicker edge for the crust.
Add Toppings: Brush the surface of the dough with olive oil. Spread a generous layer of your homemade pesto on top, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly, and add optional cherry tomatoes for a pop of sweetness. Finish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Bake: Slide your pizza into the preheated oven and bake for 14-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Add fresh basil and any optional garnishes before slicing into your masterpiece.

Optional: Drizzle with a little extra pesto for an extra flavor boost!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Delicious Cheesy Garlic Pizza

Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 475°F for that perfectly crispy crust. Don’t rush this step!
Pesto Magic: Let your homemade pesto sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes; this helps the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the pizza experience.
Topping Techniques: Avoid overcrowding the pizza with too many toppings, as this can make the crust soggy. Stick to a few favorites for the best results!
Dough Thickness: Roll out dough to about ½-inch thickness for a nice balance between crispiness and chewiness in your pizza crust.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh ingredients whenever possible, especially garlic and basil, for the most vibrant flavor in your homemade pizza.
Personalize the Recipe: Don’t hesitate to customize your delicious cheesy garlic pizza with toppings like grilled chicken or roasted veggies to make it truly your own!

What to Serve with Delicious Cheesy Garlic Pizza?

Elevate your homemade pizza experience by pairing it with delightful sides that complement the rich flavors beautifully.

Crispy Caesar Salad: A classic choice, the crunch of romaine and tangy dressing refreshes the palate between cheesy bites.
Garlic Bread Knots: Soft, buttery, and infused with garlic, these knots echo the pizza’s flavors, making every meal a delicious indulgence.

For a heartier meal, consider serving a Roasted Vegetable Medley. The earthy flavors of roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes add a colorful and nutritious side.

Classic Italian Prosecco: The light, bubbly sweetness of this sparkling wine enhances the overall flavor of your pizza, making it a perfect dining companion.
Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, this refreshing sorbet cleanses the palate and provides a cool contrast to the warm, cheesy pizza, ending your meal on a light note.

Make Ahead Options

These delicious Cheesy Basil Garlic Pizzas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the homemade pesto up to 3 days in advance, simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve its vibrant flavor. Additionally, you can roll out the pizza dough and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours to save time when it’s pizza night. When you’re ready to serve, just spread the pesto over your dough, add toppings, and bake as directed. This way, you can enjoy the same fresh taste with minimal effort, making dinner stress-free and absolutely scrumptious!

Storage Tips for Delicious Cheesy Garlic Pizza

Room Temperature: Enjoy your pizza fresh for up to 2 hours at room temperature to keep flavors intact; afterward, it’s best to store it in the fridge.
Fridge: Wrap leftover pizza tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil; it will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, place slices in an airtight container or freezer bag; it can be kept frozen for up to 3 months without losing its delicious cheesy goodness.
Reheating: For optimal texture, reheat slices in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, ensuring a crispy crust and melted cheese.

Delicious Cheesy Garlic Pizza Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine while customizing this pizza recipe with delightful tweaks!

Nut-Free: Replace pine nuts with sunflower seeds for a crunchy pesto free of allergens, maintaining that creamy texture.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or thinly sliced jalapeños to the top for a zesty kick that complements the cheesy goodness.
Veggie Delight: Top with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for a hearty, veggie-packed pizza that’s bursting with flavor.
Cheese Medley: Experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or smoked provolone for a rich, gourmet flavor profile. Each cheese adds its own delicious twist.
Cauliflower Crust: For a lower-carb option, swap out traditional dough for a cauliflower crust. It’s light, crispy, and an excellent base for all the tasty toppings.
Barbecue Pesto: Incorporate a drizzle of barbecue sauce into your pesto mix before spreading it on the dough for a sweet and smoky flavor that takes it to the next level.
Mediterranean Style: Add toppings like olives, artichokes, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired treat that’s both flavorful and colorful.
Breakfast Twist: Top with scrambled eggs and cooked bacon or sausage for a hearty breakfast pizza that’s just as satisfying any time of day.

Each of these variations opens a door to new experiences, ensuring that your Delicious Cheesy Garlic Pizza remains a beloved staple in your kitchen!

Delicious Cheesy Garlic Pizza with Homemade Pesto Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting fresh basil leaves?
Absolutely! Look for vibrant, bright green basil leaves that are tender and free from dark spots or wilting. This ensures you get the freshest flavor for your homemade pesto, creating that delicious cheesy garlic pizza experience.

How should I store leftover pizza?
To keep your delicious cheesy garlic pizza fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This prevents it from drying out, preserving that gooey cheese and crispy crust.

Can I freeze leftovers, and if so, how?
Yes! To freeze your pizza, slices should be placed in an airtight container or freezer bag, ensuring they are well sealed to avoid freezer burn. You can enjoy your pizza for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

What if my pizza crust is soggy after baking?
Very much! A soggy crust often results from too many toppings or insufficient preheating. To troubleshoot, ensure your oven is fully heated to 475°F before baking, and aim for a balanced amount of toppings—stick to fewer ingredients for best results. You can also try sprinkling a bit of cornmeal on your baking surface for added crispness.

Is there a way to make this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular pizza dough with a gluten-free pizza dough option available in stores. Alternatively, consider using a cauliflower crust or chickpea-based dough for a tasty and gluten-free version of your delicious cheesy garlic pizza.