3-Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza Recipe

If you’re craving something fresh, zesty, and just a little bit indulgent, then this 3-Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza is about to become your new favorite! Picture this: a crispy, golden crust topped with a luscious blend of mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan cheeses. Then, add a tangy twist with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of fragrant basil, and you’ve got the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and citrusy goodness. This pizza feels so light and bright, yet every bite is packed with flavor. Whether you’re having a cozy night in or hosting a dinner party, this pizza is sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love 3-Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza

• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of lemon and basil adds a fresh twist to the classic pizza, making it feel light but still deliciously satisfying.
• Cheesy Heaven: With mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan, each bite is creamy, savory, and full of cheesy goodness.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, this pizza is perfect for a busy weeknight or an impromptu gathering with friends.
• Light but Filling: It’s the kind of pizza that makes you feel satisfied without weighing you down.
• Customizable: Add extra toppings if you like—grilled chicken, spinach, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze would be wonderful additions.

Ingredients

To make your 3-Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza, you’ll need:

• Pizza Dough: Either store-bought or homemade—your choice!
• Mozzarella Cheese (shredded): A melty, gooey cheese that’s perfect for pizza.
• Ricotta Cheese: Adds a creamy, slightly sweet contrast to the mozzarella.
• Parmesan Cheese (grated): A sharp, nutty cheese that brings a burst of savory flavor.
• Olive Oil: For brushing the crust to give it that golden crispiness.
• Lemon Zest and Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon will give the pizza a bright, citrusy kick.
• Fresh Basil: To finish off the pizza with a fresh, herby flavor and a pop of color.
• Garlic (optional): A little minced garlic will add depth to the flavors, but you can skip this if you prefer a simpler taste.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to get started? Here’s how to make your 3-Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). You want the oven nice and hot to get that crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

If you’re using store-bought dough, roll it out on a floured surface until it’s about 12 inches in diameter. If you’re making homemade dough, roll it out to your desired thickness.

Step 3: Prepare the Pizza Crust

Place the rolled-out dough on a baking sheet or pizza stone. Brush the edges of the dough with olive oil to help it get golden and crispy in the oven.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Spread a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the dough, leaving a little space around the edges for the crust. Then, dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese evenly around the pizza. Finally, sprinkle grated parmesan cheese all over the top for an extra savory punch.

Step 5: Bake the Pizza

Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Step 6: Add the Lemon and Basil

Once the pizza is out of the oven, zest the lemon over the top of the pizza to add a fresh citrusy fragrance. Then, squeeze a little lemon juice over the pizza for that bright, tangy flavor. Finish it off by scattering fresh basil leaves on top. If you’d like, you can tear the basil into smaller pieces for easier bites.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Slice the pizza into wedges, and serve while it’s still hot. The combination of creamy cheese, fresh lemon, and fragrant basil will have everyone reaching for seconds!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 280
Total Fat: 16g

• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
  Cholesterol: 35mg
  Sodium: 520mg
  Total Carbohydrates: 24g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 3g
  Protein: 14g
  Vitamin A: 10% DV
  Vitamin C: 15% DV
  Calcium: 20% DV
  Iron: 8% DV

(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredient choices and serving sizes.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 15-17 minutes

How to Serve 3-Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza

• With a Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the citrusy pizza.
• Add a Protein: You can top this pizza with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even prosciutto for an extra protein boost.
• Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze: A sweet and tangy balsamic glaze would complement the lemon and basil flavors beautifully.
• Serve as Appetizers: Slice the pizza into smaller pieces to serve as a perfect finger food for a party or get-together.

Additional Tips

• Lemon Adjustments: If you love a really lemony pizza, feel free to add a little extra zest or squeeze more lemon juice on top before serving.
• Dough Alternatives: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using a gluten-free pizza crust.
• Herb Variations: While basil works perfectly with this pizza, you can also experiment with other herbs like oregano or thyme.
• Crust Options: For a crunchy crust, consider pre-baking the dough for 5 minutes before adding the toppings.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A1: Absolutely! You could swap the ricotta for goat cheese or add some mozzarella for extra creaminess.

Q2: Can I make the dough from scratch?
A2: Yes! If you have time, homemade dough will give this pizza an extra special touch. There are plenty of easy pizza dough recipes available online.

Q3: How can I make this pizza spicier?
A3: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese before baking, or drizzle some hot sauce on top after baking.

Q4: Can I make this pizza ahead of time?
A4: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the dough and toppings ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready!

Q5: Can I use frozen pizza dough?
A5: Yes! Frozen dough works perfectly. Just be sure to let it thaw before using.

Q6: Can I add other toppings?
A6: Yes, feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings—grilled chicken, spinach, or olives would be great additions.

Q7: How do I store leftovers?
A7: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply bake in the oven for 5-7 minutes at 350°F.

Q8: Is this pizza gluten-free?
A8: This pizza is made with regular pizza dough, but you can use gluten-free dough to make it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Q9: Can I make this pizza with a different crust?
A9: Yes, you can try using a cauliflower crust or a whole-wheat crust if you’re looking for a healthier option.

Q10: How do I get the perfect crispy crust?
A10: Be sure to preheat the oven well and brush the crust with olive oil before baking. You can also bake it directly on a pizza stone or a hot baking sheet for an extra crispy finish.

Conclusion

This 3-Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza is a refreshing twist on the classic pizza, with a creamy and cheesy base topped with fresh, citrusy lemon and aromatic basil. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re having a cozy dinner or entertaining guests, this pizza will surely impress!

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