Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza

This easy and cheesy garlic pizza is the best cheesy garlic pizza you’ll ever make! Perfect for gatherings, movie nights, or a cozy family dinner, this pizza features a soft and crispy homemade dough topped with a rich garlic and butter sauce, gooey mozzarella, and a sprinkle of chili flakes and dried basil. Its irresistible flavor and aroma will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor – The combination of garlic and melted cheese creates an amazing taste that pleases everyone.
• Easy to Make – With straightforward instructions, even novice cooks can master this recipe.
• Versatile Topping Options – Customize with your favorite toppings like vegetables or different cheeses for extra flair.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for parties, casual dinners, or even as a quick snack.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your best cheesy garlic pizza, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer – This tool helps to knead the dough efficiently, saving you time and effort.
• Mixing bowl – A large bowl is essential for mixing ingredients and allowing the dough to rise properly.
• Rolling pin – Using a rolling pin ensures your dough is evenly shaped for uniform cooking.
• Baking sheet – A good quality baking sheet provides even heat distribution for that perfect crispy crust.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 5 1/2 cups Flour
• 3 tsp Granulated sugar
• 2 1/2 tsp Kosher salt
• 1 1/4 tbsp Instant yeast
• 1/4 cup Olive oil
• 2 cups Water
• 1 tsp Vinegar

For the Topping

• 115 g Butter
• 5 cloves Garlic (grated)
• 4 cups Mozzarella
• 1/2 tsp Chili flakes
• 1/2 tsp Dried basil

How to Make Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl of a stand mixer, add the flour, granulated sugar, kosher salt, and yeast. Mix on low until combined.
2. Add the olive oil, water, and vinegar. Mix for about 10 minutes until you get a soft and stretchy dough.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

1. Grease a big bowl with oil and transfer the dough to the bowl.
2. Cover the dough with a towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise at room temperature for at least an hour or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape the Dough

1. Punch down the risen dough and transfer it onto a floured surface.
2. Divide the dough into 2-3 parts depending on desired size and roll them into balls.
3. Cover the dough balls with a towel to prevent drying out, letting them rest for 15 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare Garlic Topping

1. In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, add the butter and grated garlic.
2. Simmer until melted and cooked; be careful not to burn the garlic. Set aside to cool while prepping dough.

Step 5: Form Pizza Bases

1. On a clean floured surface, roll each dough ball out individually.
2. Transfer each rolled-out disk onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Add Toppings

1. Brush each dough disk generously with the garlic and butter mixture.
2. Top each with plenty of mozzarella cheese.

Step 7: Bake

1. Preheat oven to 250°C (482°F).
2. Bake pizzas for about 10 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly; crust should be golden brown.

Step 8: Garnish & Serve

1. Once baked, top with chili flakes and dried or fresh basil (or any Italian seasoning you prefer).
2. Slice into pieces and enjoy your best cheesy garlic pizza!

How to Serve Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza

Serving your Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza can elevate your dining experience. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, the right accompaniments can make all the difference.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in a creamy dressing adds a refreshing contrast.
• Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil offer delightful flavors that complement the pizza.

Offer Dipping Sauces

• Garlic Butter Dip: A rich garlic butter dip enhances the cheesy goodness and is perfect for dipping crusts.
• Marinara Sauce: Classic marinara provides a tangy contrast that pairs well with cheesy flavors.

Add Beverages

• Sparkling Water: The fizz of sparkling water cleanses the palate between bites.
• Herbal Iced Tea: A refreshing herbal iced tea adds a light touch that balances out the richness of the pizza.

How to Perfect Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza

Perfecting your Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza involves a few simple tips for an even better taste and texture.

• Use High-Quality Cheese: Opt for fresh mozzarella for that perfect melt and creamy flavor.
• Preheat Your Oven Fully: Ensure your oven is at the correct temperature before baking for crispy crusts.
• Don’t Overload Toppings: Keep toppings light to ensure even cooking and crispy edges.
• Experiment with Herbs: Fresh herbs like oregano or thyme can add unique flavors to your pizza.
• Let Dough Rest Properly: Allowing dough to rest helps develop its flavor and ensures a softer texture.

Best Side Dishes for Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza

Complementing your Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza with side dishes can enhance the meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Knots: Soft knots brushed with garlic butter make an irresistible side.
2. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil offers a fresh taste sensation.
3. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, marinated vegetables, and cheeses provides diverse flavors.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your meal.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs create a delicious bite-sized treat.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and balances out the richness of the pizza.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza can be a breeze if you avoid these common pitfalls.

• Ignoring Dough Rest Time: Skipping the resting period for the dough can lead to tough pizza. Always let it rise until it doubles in size for better texture.
• Overloading on Toppings: Adding too many toppings can make your pizza soggy. Stick to a good amount of cheese and garlic topping to maintain crispiness.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a cold oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure a perfectly baked crust.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold water or butter can affect dough consistency. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal results.
• Underestimating Garlic Cooking Time: Garlic burns quickly, which can ruin your pizza flavor. Cook it on medium-low heat and watch closely to prevent burning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag; they will last up to 2 months.

Reheating Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10 minutes for crispy edges.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds to 1 minute, but this may result in a softer crust.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet with a lid for about 5 minutes, perfect for retaining crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making the Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza, you’re not alone! Here are some answers to common queries.

Can I use other cheeses besides mozzarella?

Yes, you can experiment with cheeses like cheddar or gouda, but mozzarella provides that classic stretchy texture.

How do I make my pizza crust crispy?

Ensure your oven is fully preheated and consider using a pizza stone if available. This helps achieve that perfect crispy crust.

What are some variation ideas for the Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza?

You can add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms, or even try different herbs like oregano or thyme for extra flavor!

Can I make this pizza vegan?

Certainly! Use plant-based cheese alternatives and substitute butter with vegan margarine or olive oil.

Final Thoughts

The Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various toppings and flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and make it your own!