This easy garden basil pepperoni pizza recipe combines fresh basil, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crispy pepperoni for a delightful homemade meal. With minimal prep and cook time, it's perfect for a quick dinner or casual gathering.
1tablespoonextra-virgin olive oilplus more for greasing
½poundno-knead bread or store-bought pizza dough
¾cupcanned crushed tomatoes
1cupshredded mozzarella cheese
1cupshredded provolone cheese
8piecesof large thinly sliced pepperoni
2cupsred and/or yellow cherry tomatoes
1garlic cloveminced or grated
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Crushed red pepper flakesoptional
Fresh basil leavesfor garnish
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Instructions
Heat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Lightly coat a baking sheet with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Shape the dough:
Dust your work surface with flour and roll the dough out until it is about ¼-inch thick.
Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough onto the oiled baking sheet.
Spread the base and add toppings:
Evenly distribute the crushed tomatoes over the surface of the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and provolone cheeses across the tomato layer.
Arrange the pepperoni slices evenly over the cheese.
Prepare the tomato mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of olive oil, the cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, and a pinch of kosher salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if desired for a spicy kick).
Spread this mixture over the assembled pizza.
Bake the pizza:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese has melted and bubbled.
Add finishing touches:
Remove the pizza from the oven and scatter fresh basil leaves over the top as a garnish.
Slice into pieces and serve while hot.
Notes
Cherry tomatoes burst in the oven, adding texture and a pop of freshness.
Substitute pepperoni with vegetarian options like roasted red peppers for a meatless variation.
Store-bought dough makes this recipe even easier for weeknight meals.