The art of making authentic Neapolitan pizzas is a time-honored tradition that has been passed down through generations. The birthplace of pizza, Naples, Italy is where you’ll find the classic Neapolitan-style pies that have captured the hearts and taste buds of people around the world. With its thin crust, slightly charred edges, and perfectly balanced toppings, a well-crafted Neapolitan pizza is truly a culinary masterpiece.
In this article, we’re excited to share 18 authentic Neapolitan pizza recipes that you can make at home. From classic combinations like Margherita and Marinara to more adventurous pairings featuring prosciutto, arugula, and truffle oil, these recipes will transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed streets of Naples.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of Neapolitan pizza-making and explore some of the most mouthwatering and authentic recipes out there. Which one will be your new favorite?
Classic Margherita Neapolitan Pizza
Experience the authentic taste of Italy with this classic recipe for a simple yet flavorful Neapolitan-style pizza, inspired by the Queen of Naples, Margherita.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) high-protein flour
– 625ml water
– 10g active dry yeast
– 20g salt
– 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– 12 oz (340g) San Marzano tomatoes, crushed by hand
– Fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Gradually add water while kneading the dough for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rest at room temperature for 24 hours.
4. Preheat the oven to 500°F (260°C) with a baking stone or cast-iron skillet inside.
5. Roll out the rested dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
6. Place the dough on the preheated stone or skillet, top with crushed tomatoes, mozzarella slices, and fresh basil leaves.
7. Cook for 10-12 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Traditional Marinara Neapolitan Pizza
This classic recipe brings you a taste of Italy with a traditional Neapolitan-style pizza that’s simple, yet full of flavor. This marinara-based pizza is perfect for those who love the authentic taste of Italy.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 28 oz can crushed tomatoes (San Marzano)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C).
6. Roll out the dough to your desired thickness. Place on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
7. Top with crushed tomatoes, garlic, and chopped basil leaves if using.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Neapolitan Pizza with Buffalo Mozzarella
Experience the classic flavors of Italy with this simple recipe for a traditional Neapolitan pizza, topped with creamy buffalo mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (0.5 kg) Caputo or equivalent flour
– 625 ml water
– 10 g active dry yeast
– 20 g salt
– 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
– 1 cup buffalo mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Gradually add water while kneading the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rest at room temperature for 24 hours.
4. Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C) with a pizza stone inside, if available.
5. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
6. Place the dough on the preheated stone or baking sheet.
7. Top with buffalo mozzarella cheese and fresh basil leaves.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Neapolitan-Style Pizza with Anchovies and Capers
Experience the authentic flavors of Naples with this traditional pizza recipe, featuring salty anchovies and tangy capers. This simple yet flavorful combination is a staple in Neapolitan cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb high-protein flour
– 625 ml water
– 10 g active dry yeast
– Salt
– 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– 8-10 anchovy fillets, rinsed and chopped
– 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and drained
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C) with a baking stone or baking sheet inside.
2. Combine flour, yeast, and salt in a bowl. Gradually add water, mixing until dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, then let it rest for 24 hours.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
5. Place the dough on the preheated stone or sheet, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Drizzle with olive oil, then top with anchovies and capers.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Neapolitan Pizza with Fresh Basil and Cherry Tomatoes
This traditional Italian recipe brings together the simplicity of a classic pizza with the freshness of basil and the sweetness of cherry tomatoes. Experience the authentic flavors of Naples in this easy-to-make pie.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) high-protein flour
– 625 ml water
– 10 g active dry yeast
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 12-16 cherry tomatoes, halved
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
– Mozzarella cheese, sliced (about 8 oz or 225g)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C) with a baking stone or pizza stone inside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt. Gradually add water while kneading the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
3. Shape the dough into a ball and let it rest for 1 hour in a warm place.
4. Roll out the dough to desired thickness (about 1/8 inch or 3 mm) on a floured surface.
5. Place the dough on the preheated stone, top with olive oil, cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, and mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Neapolitan Pizza with Prosciutto and Arugula
This recipe combines the simplicity of a traditional Neapolitan pizza with the salty, savory flavor of prosciutto and the peppery freshness of arugula. The result is a flavorful and visually appealing pie that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) high-protein flour
– 625ml water
– 10g active dry yeast
– 25g extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 8-10 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 4 oz (115g) arugula leaves
– 1/2 cup (120g) grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 550°F (290°C) with a pizza stone inside, if you have one.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt. Gradually add water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, then form into a ball and let rest for 1 hour.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3mm).
5. Place the dough on a piece of parchment paper or a lightly floured pizza peel, if you have one.
6. Top with prosciutto slices, arugula leaves, and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Neapolitan Pizza with Sausage and Mushrooms
This recipe brings the authentic flavors of Italy to your table, with a crispy crust, savory sausage, and earthy mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb high-protein flour (00)
– 625 ml water
– 10 g active dry yeast
– Salt, to taste
– 4 Italian sausages (sweet or hot), casings removed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– Extra-virgin olive oil, for brushing
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 550°F (290°C) with a baking stone or ceramic tile inside.
2. Combine flour, yeast, and salt in a bowl. Gradually add water, mixing until a dough forms.
3. Knead for 5-7 minutes, then rest for 30 minutes.
4. Roll out the dough to your desired thickness (about 1/4 inch).
5. Place the dough on a piece of parchment paper or a lightly floured pizza peel.
6. Top with sausage, mushrooms, and a drizzle of olive oil.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until crust is golden and toppings are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Neapolitan Pizza with Artichokes and Olives
Experience the authentic flavors of Italy with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of artichokes, the brininess of olives, and the classic charm of a traditional Neapolitan pizza.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) Caputo or All-Purpose flour
– 625 ml (21.7 oz) lukewarm water
– 10 g active dry yeast
– 20 g extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 1/2 cup (120g) artichoke hearts, canned or fresh
– 1/4 cup (30g) pitted green olives, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 500°F (260°C) with a baking stone inside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt. Gradually add lukewarm water, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Shape into a ball, place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours.
5. Punch down the dough, roll out to 12-inch (30 cm) circle, and transfer to preheated baking stone.
6. Top with artichoke hearts, olives, and a drizzle of olive oil. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Neapolitan Pizza with Spicy Salami and Chili Oil
This recipe combines the classic flavors of Neapolitan pizza with a spicy kick from salami and chili oil. The result is a bold and flavorful pie that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb high-protein flour (Caputo or similar)
– 625ml lukewarm water
– 10g active dry yeast
– 20g salt
– 4-6 slices of spicy salami (e.g. sopressata or pepperoni)
– 2 tbsp chili oil
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a shaggy dough.
3. Knead for 10-15 minutes until smooth.
4. Let the dough rest for 2 hours.
5. Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C) with a baking stone or skillet.
6. Roll out the dough and place on the preheated surface.
7. Top with salami, chili oil, mozzarella cheese, and chopped basil.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Neapolitan Pizza with Ricotta and Spinach
Experience the authentic flavors of Naples with this classic combination of creamy ricotta, savory spinach, and crispy crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb high-protein flour (Caputo or All-Purpose)
– 1/2 tsp active dry yeast
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup lukewarm water
– 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 500°F (260°C) with a baking stone or unglazed ceramic tile inside.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt. Gradually add water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, then shape into a ball and let rest for 1 hour.
4. Punch down the dough and roll out to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
5. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface or piece of parchment paper.
6. Spread ricotta cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
7. Top with chopped spinach leaves.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crust is golden and ricotta slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Neapolitan Pizza with Shrimp and Garlic
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Neapolitan pizza with the sweetness of shrimp and pungency of garlic. The result is a unique and delicious twist on the classic Italian dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb high-protein flour
– 625 ml water
– 10 g active dry yeast
– 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup tomato sauce
– 1/2 cup fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C) with a baking stone or ceramic tile inside.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt. Gradually add water, forming a shaggy dough.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Shape the dough into a ball and let it rest for 1 hour.
5. Roll out the dough to a thickness of 1/4 inch (6 mm).
6. Top with tomato sauce, shrimp, garlic, and salt to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Neapolitan Pizza with Roasted Red Peppers and Goat Cheese
Experience the flavors of Italy with this unique twist on a classic Neapolitan pizza, featuring roasted red peppers and creamy goat cheese. This combination is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) pizza dough
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 8 oz (225g) mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Roast red bell peppers in oven for 30-40 minutes, or until charred.
4. Remove peppers from oven and let cool. Peel off skin, then slice into strips.
5. Place pizza dough on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Top with roasted pepper strips, goat cheese, and mozzarella cheese.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Neapolitan Pizza with Eggplant and Zucchini
This recipe brings together the classic Neapolitan pizza style with the flavors of eggplant and zucchini, creating a delicious and unique vegetarian option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) pizza dough
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm).
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the eggplant and zucchini slices and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Spread the cooked vegetables over the pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle with minced garlic, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the vegetables are heated through.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Neapolitan Pizza with Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Experience the authentic flavors of Italy with this unique Neapolitan-style pizza, featuring pesto sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb high-protein flour
– 0.25 cups warm water
– 1 tsp active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese
– 10-12 cherry sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– Salt and extra virgin olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C) with a baking stone inside.
2. Mix flour, yeast, and warm water to form a dough. Knead for 5 minutes and let rest for 30 minutes.
3. Roll out the dough to 12-inch (30 cm) circle.
4. Spread pesto sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border.
5. Top with mozzarella cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, salt, and a drizzle of olive oil.
6. Slide the pizza onto preheated baking stone and bake for 10-12 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Neapolitan Pizza with Caramelized Onions and Gorgonzola
A classic Neapolitan pizza gets a sweet and savory twist with the addition of caramelized onions and creamy gorgonzola cheese. This recipe combines the simplicity of traditional Neapolitan pizza with the depth of flavor from the slow-cooked onions and tangy cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) high-protein flour
– 625ml lukewarm water
– 10g active dry yeast
– 1 tsp salt
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz (225g) gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
– Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 550°F (290°C) with a pizza stone inside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt. Gradually add lukewarm water while mixing.
3. Knead dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out dough into a 12-inch circle.
5. Spread caramelized onions (cook onions in 2 tbsp olive oil over low heat for 30 minutes) and garlic over the dough.
6. Top with gorgonzola cheese and fresh basil leaves.
7. Bake pizza for 10-12 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Neapolitan Pizza with Truffle Oil and Wild Mushrooms
Elevate your pizza game with this luxurious combination of truffle oil, wild mushrooms, and classic Neapolitan flavors. This recipe yields a crispy crust, earthy mushroom flavor, and subtle hint of truffle richness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) Caputo or equivalent Neapolitan-style flour
– 625ml lukewarm water
– 10g active dry yeast
– 20g extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 8 oz (225g) mixed wild mushrooms (e.g., cremini, shiitake, oyster), sliced
– 2 tbsp truffle oil
– Fresh parsley leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C) with a baking stone or pizza steel inside.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt. Gradually add lukewarm water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
4. Punch down the dough and shape into a ball. Flatten to your desired thickness (0.25 inch/6 mm).
5. Transfer the dough to a piece of parchment paper or a lightly floured pizza peel.
6. Top with wild mushrooms, truffle oil, and a sprinkle of salt.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Neapolitan Pizza with Smoked Salmon and Dill
Elevate your pizza game with this unique combination of flavors: smoky salmon, fresh dill, and creamy mozzarella on a classic Neapolitan crust. This recipe is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to add some Scandinavian flair to their pizza nights.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) high-protein flour
– 625ml water
– 10g active dry yeast
– 20g salt
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 8 oz (225g) smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 12 oz (340g) mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Extra-virgin olive oil for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 550°F (290°C) with a baking stone inside.
2. Mix flour, yeast, and salt in a bowl. Gradually add water while kneading the dough.
3. Knead for 10 minutes until smooth. Rest for 24 hours in refrigerator.
4. Roll out the dough into a circle (12 inches/30cm). Place on baking stone.
5. Top with smoked salmon, dill, and mozzarella cheese. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
Neapolitan Pizza with Figs and Honey
This unique pizza combines the classic flavors of Italy with the sweetness of figs and honey, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience. The result is a harmonious blend of crispy crust, rich tomato sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and caramelized figs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Neapolitan-style pizza dough
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 4-6 dried or fresh figs, chopped
– 2 tbsp honey
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 500°F (260°C) with a pizza stone inside.
2. Roll out the pizza dough to desired thickness and place on the preheated stone.
3. Spread tomato sauce evenly, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Arrange mozzarella slices on top of the sauce.
5. Scatter chopped figs over the cheese.
6. Drizzle honey in a zig-zag pattern.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
8. Remove from oven, sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to taste the real deal with these 18 authentic Neapolitan pizza recipes perfect for home chefs! From classic Margherita to innovative combinations like spicy salami and chili oil or truffle oil and wild mushrooms, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to create the perfect crust, add flavorful toppings, and bring a taste of Italy to your kitchen. Whether you’re a pizza newbie or a seasoned pro, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. So go ahead, fire up your oven, and get ready to pizzazz!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
