Why You’ll Love This Recipe

3-Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza is a fresh, vibrant twist on classic pizza, combining the creamy richness of three cheeses with the brightness of lemon and the aromatic touch of fresh basil. It’s a perfect balance of indulgent and refreshing, ideal for spring and summer meals, light dinners, or as an impressive appetizer.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)olive oilricotta cheesefresh mozzarella cheeseparmesan cheese (shredded)lemon zestfresh lemon juicefresh basil leavesgarlic (minced)crushed red pepper flakes (optional)salt and black pepper

directions

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.

Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.

Transfer the dough to a piece of parchment paper and lightly brush the surface with olive oil.

In a small bowl, mix ricotta with minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper.

Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border.

Tear the fresh mozzarella into pieces and scatter them over the ricotta.

Sprinkle the shredded parmesan on top.

Carefully transfer the pizza (with parchment) onto the preheated stone or baking sheet.

Bake for 10-14 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.

Remove from the oven and immediately drizzle with a little fresh lemon juice.

Top with fresh basil leaves and a pinch of red pepper flakes, if desired.

Slice and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes one 12-inch pizza, serving 2–4 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesBaking time: 10-14 minutesTotal time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Add thin slices of prosciutto after baking for a savory touch.

Try using goat cheese in place of ricotta for a tangier flavor.

Add arugula on top after baking for a peppery finish.

Use a garlic-herb infused olive oil for extra flavor.

Top with pine nuts for added crunch and a nutty contrast.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat slices in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8-10 minutes or until warmed through.For a quicker option, use a skillet on medium heat with a lid to re-crisp the crust.

FAQs

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Fresh basil is highly recommended for its bright flavor, but a small amount of dried basil can work in a pinch.

What kind of mozzarella should I use?

Fresh mozzarella is best for its creaminess and melt, but shredded low-moisture mozzarella can be used for convenience.

Can I make this pizza ahead of time?

You can prepare the toppings in advance, but assemble and bake just before serving for the best texture.

Is lemon too strong on pizza?

Not at all—the lemon zest adds brightness, and the juice enhances flavor without overpowering.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, store-bought pizza dough works perfectly for this recipe and saves time.

How can I make it spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or drizzle with a spicy chili oil after baking.

Can I grill this pizza?

Yes! Grill the dough first, then add toppings and finish grilling until the cheese melts.

Is this pizza vegetarian?

Yes, it contains no meat and is suitable for vegetarians.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, freeze individual slices wrapped in foil for up to 1 month and reheat in the oven.

What wine pairs well with this pizza?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully with the lemon and cheese.

Conclusion

3-Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza is a deliciously light and flavorful dish that brings gourmet flair to your pizza night. With its creamy cheeses, zesty lemon, and fresh basil, it’s a refreshing take on a beloved classic. Perfect for entertaining or enjoying al fresco, this pizza is sure to become a favorite in your rotation.