This easy homemade Margherita pizza is everything you love about the classic Italian favorite—crispy crust, rich tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil—but with a healthier and faster twist. Made with a no-yeast dough and only 5 simple ingredients, this pizza is ready in just 30 minutes using a standard oven. No need for fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients—just pure, delicious comfort food you can enjoy guilt-free.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 1 cup self-rising flour

• 1 cup nonfat Greek yogurt

• ¼ cup canned San Marzano tomatoes, blended into a smooth sauce

• 2 slices fresh mozzarella, patted dry and cut into ½-inch pieces

• 10 fresh basil leaves (whole or thinly sliced)

• Optional: extra virgin olive oil for drizzling

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to its highest temperature (e.g., 550°F / 290°C) and place a pizza stone, inverted baking sheet, cast-iron skillet, or pizza pan in the center of the middle rack. Heat for at least 30 minutes.

2. In a bowl, mix the self-rising flour and Greek yogurt until a dough forms. Shape into a thin pizza crust.

3. Place the crust on a pizza pan or large plate for easy transfer.

4. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the crust, leaving a ½-inch border.

5. Evenly distribute the mozzarella and some of the basil leaves over the sauce.

6. Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated surface in the oven. Bake for about 10 minutes (or 15 minutes at 500°F/260°C), until the edges are golden and the cheese is bubbling and lightly caramelized.

7. Remove from the oven using gloves, transfer to a cutting board, and drizzle with olive oil if desired.

8. Sprinkle with remaining fresh basil and serve hot.

Nutrients (Per Slice – Approximate, based on 8 slices)

• Calories: 102 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 15g

• Protein: 6g

• Fat: 2g

• Saturated Fat: 1g

• Cholesterol: 7mg

• Sodium: 64mg

• Potassium: 61mg

• Sugar: 4g

• Vitamin A: 83 IU

• Vitamin C: 1mg

• Calcium: 40mg

Why No-Yeast Dough Changes Everything

The secret to the speed and simplicity of this recipe is the no-yeast dough, made with self-rising flour and nonfat Greek yogurt. This clever combination creates a soft yet chewy base that crisps beautifully in a hot oven. Unlike traditional pizza dough that requires kneading, rising, and resting, this version comes together in minutes—no proofing time, no special skills needed. The yogurt adds a subtle tang and moisture, while the self-rising flour provides the lift and structure. The result is a crust that holds up well to toppings yet feels lighter and more nutritious than its traditional counterpart.

Healthier Ingredients, Same Satisfying Taste

One of the main reasons this recipe stands out is its healthier profile. Traditional pizzas are often loaded with excess sodium, oil, and calories from heavy cheeses and dense dough. This Margherita pizza keeps things clean and balanced. The crust is made with Greek yogurt, which boosts the protein content and reduces fat compared to oil-based doughs. The sauce uses pure San Marzano tomatoes—renowned for their rich flavor and low acidity—without added sugar or preservatives. A modest amount of fresh mozzarella keeps it creamy without going overboard, and the basil adds freshness and a burst of aroma. It’s indulgent in flavor but mindful in ingredients.

Perfect for Busy Weeknights or Lazy Weekends

Because this pizza requires minimal prep and cook time, it’s ideal for those hectic weeknights when you’re short on time but still want a homemade meal. It’s also great for lazy Sundays when you want comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. With a cook time of about 10–15 minutes in a preheated oven, you can have dinner on the table faster than it takes to wait for delivery. The best part? You probably already have most of the ingredients on hand, making it a go-to option when the fridge is running low.

Kid-Friendly, Family-Approved

This Margherita pizza is a family favorite, especially among kids. Its mild flavors and cheesy goodness make it approachable for even the pickiest eaters. Kids can also join in the preparation, from shaping the dough to spreading the sauce and placing basil leaves. Creating pizzas together can turn dinner into a fun, hands-on activity that encourages creativity and healthy eating habits. Plus, with such a short cook time, there’s no long wait—just instant satisfaction straight from the oven.

Customizable to Fit Your Preferences

While the recipe sticks to the classic Margherita ingredients, it’s incredibly adaptable. You can add a sprinkle of chili flakes for heat, drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sweet finish, or throw on roasted garlic or sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth. If you’re craving more veggies, try layering thinly sliced zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach before baking. Want it heartier? Add plant-based sausage, grilled chicken, or even a few olives for that salty kick. The crust holds up well to moderate toppings, giving you the freedom to get creative without compromising texture.

A Slice of Italian History on Your Plate

Margherita pizza is more than just a meal—it’s a piece of culinary history. It was famously created in 1889 in honor of Queen Margherita of Savoy and designed to reflect the colors of the Italian flag: red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and green basil. Its legacy has endured for over a century, and it remains one of the most cherished styles of pizza around the world. Making your own version at home allows you to participate in that tradition in a meaningful and delicious way. Even with a healthier, modern twist, this pizza still honors the spirit of its origins.

Ideal for Entertaining and Impressing Guests

If you’re hosting a casual dinner or looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this Margherita pizza makes a great addition to your menu. Its beautiful presentation—with bubbling cheese and bright basil—looks impressive but requires minimal effort. You can make several smaller pizzas or cut one large one into bite-sized squares for sharing. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon, and you’ve got a meal that’s both elegant and effortless.

Minimal Equipment, Maximum Flavor

No need for a pizza oven, peel, or stone—this pizza can be baked on a standard inverted baking sheet, pizza pan, or even a cast-iron skillet. As long as the oven is hot, the crust will puff, crisp, and brown beautifully. The key is preheating the baking surface to mimic a pizzeria-style finish. Even in a small kitchen, this recipe is accessible and foolproof. Cleanup is also a breeze, making it even more appealing for everyday cooking.

A Guilt-Free Indulgence That Hits the Spot

One of the best parts about this Margherita pizza is that you can enjoy it guilt-free. Each slice is modest in calories, rich in protein, and lower in fat than traditional takeout options. The portion-friendly nature of the recipe means you can enjoy pizza without overindulging. It satisfies cravings while staying aligned with your wellness goals. It’s proof that healthy food doesn’t have to be boring—it can be indulgent, flavorful, and comforting too.

Conclusion

This easy homemade Margherita pizza proves that delicious, comforting food doesn’t require fancy tools, long hours, or compromise. With a quick, no-yeast dough and just five simple ingredients, you can enjoy a healthier version of a beloved Italian classic in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for one, feeding your family, or entertaining guests, this pizza delivers freshness, flavor, and satisfaction in every bite. It’s a beautiful reminder that the simplest meals are often the most rewarding. Add this recipe to your rotation and bring the joy of homemade pizza into your home—any night of the week.