🍕🌿 3-Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza

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🍕🌿 3-Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza: A Bright, Cheesy Twist on a Classic

When you think of pizza, your mind might go straight to tomato sauce and pepperoni — but let me introduce you to something a little different. The 3-Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza is fresh, zesty, and loaded with cheesy goodness. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, citrusy, and herby — a total game changer for homemade pizza nights.

Whether you're entertaining guests or just craving something light and flavorful, this pizza delivers big taste with minimal effort.

🍋 Why You’ll Love This Pizza

  • It’s light, yet rich — the cheese satisfies, but the lemon and basil keep things fresh.

  • It’s a fantastic vegetarian option.

  • Pairs beautifully with a chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon.

  • Quick enough for a weeknight, fancy enough for a dinner party.

📝 Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s go layer by layer — everything you need and why it matters.

Pizza Base

  • 1 ball of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade) – Go with whatever you’re comfortable with. Thin crust or Neapolitan-style both work beautifully.

Cheese Trio

  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella – The melty base layer.

  • ½ cup ricotta cheese (full-fat preferred) – Creamy pockets of richness.

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan – Salty, sharp flavor for balance.

Flavor Boosters

  • Zest of 1 lemon – Brightens the entire pizza with fresh citrus notes.

  • 1–2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed) – Optional, but adds a little zing.

  • 2 cloves garlic (minced or finely grated) – Infuses the cheese with subtle depth.

Herbs + Extras

  • Handful of fresh basil leaves – Torn just before topping.

  • Olive oil (about 1 tablespoon) – To brush the dough and drizzle before serving.

  • Salt & freshly cracked black pepper – To taste.

  • Optional: Red pepper flakes – For a hint of heat.

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step: How to Make 3-Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C), or as hot as your oven will go. If using a pizza stone or steel, place it in the oven to heat up for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prep the Dough

Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer to a parchment-lined pizza peel or baking sheet.

Brush the crust lightly with olive oil to help it crisp and turn golden.

Step 3: Layer the Cheese

  • Start with a sprinkle of mozzarella over the base.

  • Dot small spoonfuls of ricotta evenly across the pizza.

  • Sprinkle with Parmesan.

Step 4: Add Flavor

  • Sprinkle garlic evenly across the top.

  • Add lemon zest and a very light drizzle of lemon juice if using.

Step 5: Bake

Slide the pizza into the oven (on the hot stone or directly on the tray). Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden and crisp.

Step 6: Finish with Freshness

Once out of the oven, scatter fresh basil leaves across the top. Drizzle with a touch of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add red pepper flakes if you want that kick.

Slice and serve warm.

🍽️ Serving Ideas

  • With a salad: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette makes a great pairing.

  • As an appetizer: Cut into small squares for a fresh and cheesy starter.

  • Next day tip: It’s great cold or reheated in a skillet.

🧀 Pro Tips & Variations

  • Add a protein: Try thin slices of grilled chicken or prosciutto added after baking.

  • Switch up the cheese: Goat cheese or fontina work great as substitutes or additions.

  • Lemon oil drizzle: For extra luxury, drizzle with lemon-infused olive oil after baking.

🧊 Storage & Reheating

  • Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

  • Reheat: For the best texture, reheat slices in a pan on medium heat with a lid until warmed through.

💬 Final Thoughts

This 3-Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza is sunshine on a plate. It's a celebration of simple ingredients that come together to create something elegant and mouthwatering. Whether you're switching up your pizza routine or looking to impress at your next gathering, this recipe checks all the boxes: easy, bold, and undeniably delicious.

Give it a try — and don’t be surprised when it becomes a repeat request in your house!


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