Sheet Pan Pizza with Basil and Tomatoes

If you’re looking for a hassle-free dinner that offers big flavors and minimal cleanup, this Sheet Pan Pizza with Basil and Tomatoes is your new best friend. It combines fresh basil, juicy tomatoes, and gooey cheese on a perfectly crisped sheet pan crust, making it an irresistible crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a casual gathering, this recipe is straightforward, fast, and absolutely delicious, delivering maximum taste without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: The entire pizza cooks on one pan, saving time and minimizing cleanup.
• Fresh, Vibrant Flavors: Juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil bring a bright, summery taste that’s hard to resist.
• Customizable Ingredients: Easily swap toppings to suit dietary needs or flavor preferences.
• Perfect for Weeknights: Ready in about 30 minutes, it fits beautifully into busy schedules.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone from kids to adults loves this simple and tasty meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Sheet Pan Pizza with Basil and Tomatoes lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each one contributes to the dish’s irresistible balance of taste and texture, from the crispy crust to the fresh toppings and melty cheese.

• Pizza Dough: Use store-bought or homemade dough for a chewy, golden crust.
• Fresh Tomatoes: Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for sweet and tangy bursts.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Add a fragrant herbal note that brightens every bite.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Use shredded or sliced for creamy, gooey goodness.
• Olive Oil: Drizzle to enhance flavor and help crisp up the crust.
• Garlic: Minced or powdered to add a subtle savory warmth.
• Salt and Pepper: To season and enhance the natural flavors.
• Optional Red Pepper Flakes: For a hint of gentle heat, if you like a little spice.

Variations for Sheet Pan Pizza with Basil and Tomatoes

This recipe adapts beautifully to whatever you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Feel free to get creative and make it your own by swapping or adding ingredients or adjusting to your taste.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pizza dough for a celiac-friendly version.
• Vegan Cheese Swap: Replace mozzarella with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a plant-based twist.
• Additional Veggies: Add bell peppers, olives, or red onions for more texture and flavor.
• Meat Toppings: Include pepperoni, sausage, or prosciutto if you want a heartier bite.
• Herb Variations: Swap basil for fresh oregano or thyme for a different herbal aroma.

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How to Make Sheet Pan Pizza with Basil and Tomatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 425°F (220°C), which is the perfect temperature to get the crust crisp without drying out the toppings.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Roll out your pizza dough on a generously oiled sheet pan to prevent sticking and encourage a golden, crispy base.

Step 3: Add Olive Oil and Garlic

Brush the dough with olive oil and sprinkle minced garlic evenly to infuse the crust with tasty aroma and flavor from the start.

Step 4: Layer Tomatoes and Cheese

Arrange sliced tomatoes evenly across the dough, then scatter shredded mozzarella on top for that irresistible melty layer.

Step 5: Bake Until Crisp and Bubbling

Place the sheet pan in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese bubbles beautifully.

Step 6: Add Fresh Basil and Season

Once out of the oven, scatter fresh basil leaves over the pizza and add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired before slicing and serving.

Pro Tips for Making Sheet Pan Pizza with Basil and Tomatoes

• Use Room Temperature Dough: It stretches easier and bakes more evenly for superior texture.
• Don’t Overload the Toppings: Excess moisture from tomatoes can make the crust soggy, so keep it balanced.
• Opt for High-Quality Olive Oil: It adds rich flavor and helps create a crispy, golden crust.
• Fresh Basil Goes on Last: Adding it after baking preserves its vibrant color and delicate flavor.
• Preheat Your Sheet Pan: For an extra crispy bottom, heat the pan before adding the dough.

How to Serve Sheet Pan Pizza with Basil and Tomatoes

Garnishes

Top with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for an elegant finish that wakes up the flavors.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp green salad or garlic-roasted vegetables to complement the fresh, vibrant notes of the pizza.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut into squares for a fun party style or use colorful serving platters to make this simple dish stand out as the centerpiece of your meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover pizza in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Freezing

Freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months, perfect for quick, delicious meals on busy days.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 375°F (190°C) to preserve crispness without drying out the toppings.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Fresh tomatoes are best for their texture and flavor in this recipe, but you can use well-drained canned tomatoes in a pinch; just be mindful of excess moisture.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Absolutely! The simple, familiar flavors and easy-to-eat slices make it a great family meal option.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, simply replace the mozzarella with your favorite vegan cheese alternative and use a dairy-free dough if needed.

How crispy will the crust be?

The crust crisps up nicely in the oven with the right temperature and olive oil—preheating the sheet pan helps achieve an extra crunchy bottom.

What’s the best way to store fresh basil?

Keep basil fresh by placing the stems in a glass of water at room temperature, or wrap leaves loosely in a damp paper towel and refrigerate for short-term storage.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly satisfying about a homemade Sheet Pan Pizza with Basil and Tomatoes that combines fresh ingredients, easy prep, and a flawless balance of flavors. Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving a delicious meal with minimal fuss, give this recipe a try—you might just find your new weeknight favorite!

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