Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza

This Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza is a delightful treat that brings together the rich flavors of garlic and cheese. Perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to weekend parties, this pizza stands out with its homemade dough that’s soft on the inside and crispy on the outside. The garlic butter sauce elevates the taste, making it an irresistible favorite among pizza lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can create this delicious pizza.
• Flavorful Topping: The combination of garlic and melted mozzarella ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
• Versatile: Customize your pizza by adding your favorite toppings or herbs to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields 16 slices, making it ideal for gatherings or family meals.
• Satisfying Comfort Food: It’s the ultimate comfort food that everyone can enjoy.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start, gather the essential tools needed to make this pizza. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes kneading the dough effortless, ensuring a smooth and elastic texture.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve uniform thickness for your pizza crust, which is key to even baking.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking your pizza, leading to a perfect crust.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to prepare the Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza:

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 achieve a soft and stretchy dough.

Step 2: Let it Rise

1. Grease a large bowl with oil and transfer the dough into it.
2. Cover with a towel or plastic wrap and 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 based on your preferred size and shape them into balls.
3. Cover the dough balls with a towel to prevent drying out and let them rest for 15 minutes.

Step 4: Make Garlic Topping

1. In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, add the butter and grated garlic.
2. Simmer until the butter melts and the garlic is cooked (be cautious as garlic can burn easily). Set aside to cool while prepping other ingredients.

Step 5: Assemble Your Pizza

1. On a clean floured surface, roll each dough ball into a disk shape.
2. Transfer each disk to a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
3. Brush each dough disk generously with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Top with plenty of mozzarella cheese.

Step 6: Bake Your Pizza

1. Preheat your oven to 250°C (482°F).
2. Bake for about 10 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly, with a golden brown crispy crust.

Step 7: Final Touches

1. Sprinkle chili flakes and dried or fresh basil over top before serving.

This easy Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza recipe will surely impress anyone who tries it! Enjoy it fresh out of the oven as an appetizer or main course!

How to Serve Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza

Serving your Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza is just as important as making it. Presentation and pairing can elevate the experience for you and your guests.

With Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pizza.

As Appetizers

• Cut the pizza into smaller squares for a perfect appetizer at parties or gatherings, making it easy for guests to grab a piece.

Dipped in Sauces

• Serve with marinara or garlic dipping sauces on the side for added flavor and fun.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley right before serving to enhance both flavor and appearance.

Paired with Beverages

• Offer non-alcoholic drinks like sparkling water or fruit juices for a refreshing combination.

How to Perfect Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza

To make your Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza even better, follow these tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Always opt for fresh mozzarella and high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
• Don’t Rush the Dough: Allowing the dough to rise properly will give you that perfect soft yet crispy texture.
• Control Your Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is fully preheated to achieve that golden-brown crust.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add vegetables or different cheeses for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
• Brush Generously: Use plenty of garlic butter sauce on the crust to enhance flavor and moisture.
• Serve Immediately: For the best taste, serve your pizza right out of the oven while it’s hot and cheesy.

Best Side Dishes for Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza

To round out your meal, consider these delicious side dishes that pair wonderfully with your Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza.

1. Caesar Salad: A classic choice with crunchy romaine, croutons, and creamy dressing adds freshness.
2. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a refreshing bite.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized complement the flavors of the pizza beautifully.
4. Garlic Knots: These buttery knots are a great way to keep up with garlic flavors while adding texture.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms stuffed with herbs and cheese provide an elegant touch.
6. Zucchini Fries: Crispy baked zucchini fries offer a healthier alternative to traditional fries alongside pizza.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza can sometimes lead to common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Cold water or butter can hinder dough rising. Always use warm water and room temperature butter for best results.
• Not kneading enough: Insufficient kneading can result in dense pizza. Knead the dough until it’s soft and stretchy for a better texture.
• Skimping on garlic: Garlic is key to flavor in this recipe. Be generous with grated garlic in the butter mixture for that delicious taste.
• Overcooking the pizza: Keep an eye on baking time to avoid burning. The pizza should be golden brown and bubbly, but not overly dark.
• Ignoring resting time: Letting the dough rest is crucial for developing flavor. Don’t rush this step; it enhances both texture and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pizza in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pizza on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for 30-60 seconds. Use a cup of water to prevent sogginess.
• Stovetop: Place pizza in a skillet over medium heat, cover with a lid, and heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza:

How do I make the dough rise faster?

To speed up rising, place your dough in a warm area or near a preheated oven. The warmth will help activate the yeast more quickly.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix it up with cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or even some feta for added flavor.

What toppings go well with Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza?

You can add various toppings such as roasted vegetables, pepperoni alternatives, or fresh herbs like basil or oregano for extra flavor.

How do I ensure my crust is crispy?

Make sure your oven is preheated to a high temperature before baking and use a pizza stone if you have one for maximum crispiness.

Final Thoughts

The Best Cheesy Garlic Pizza is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. This recipe allows you to customize toppings according to your taste preferences, whether you enjoy extra veggies or different cheeses. Try it today and experience its cheesy goodness!