Name: Mini Pizzas Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 32 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups (250 grams) all-purpose flour or bread flour; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon Instant yeast or active dry yeast; ½ cup + 1 tbsp (135 ml) water, lukewarm; ½ tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; ½ or 1 tablespoon flour or semolina flour, to roll the dough; ½ cup pizza sauce; 5oz (140 grams) fresh mozzarella or ½ cup shredded mozzarella; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 3 tablespoons fresh basil, coarsely chopped

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 67 reviews

If you’re looking for a fun, crowd-pleasing dish that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat, this Mini Pizzas Recipe is exactly what you need. These little pizza gems pack all the classic flavors of your favorite Italian pie into perfectly sized bites that are great for parties, quick dinners, or anytime you crave that melty, cheesy goodness. The dough is simple, soft, and tender while the toppings burst with fresh, vibrant flavors that come together to make every mouthful irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with light beige dough that has a smooth, slightly bumpy texture. In the left part of the image, a woman's hand is holding a round ball of the dough, showing its soft and elastic form. The right side shows the dough resting inside the same clear bowl, where it has risen to fill more space, looking puffed and airy. The background is plain white, keeping focus on the dough and the woman's hand. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, fresh, and well-balanced ingredients is the secret behind this Mini Pizzas Recipe. Each component, from the dough to the toppings, has a role in creating the perfect harmony of texture, richness, and zest.

Pizza dough: The foundation of your mini pizzas, it should be soft and elastic to hold the toppings beautifully.
All-purpose or bread flour (2 cups / 250 grams): Provides structure and chewiness to the crust, enabling a satisfying bite every time.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors in the dough and balances the overall taste.
Instant or active dry yeast (½ teaspoon): The magical ingredient that helps your dough rise and become airy.
Lukewarm water (½ cup + 1 tbsp / 135 ml): Activates the yeast and helps bring the dough together without being too sticky.
Extra virgin olive oil (½ tablespoon): Adds richness and softness to the dough, plus a hint of fruitiness.
Flour or semolina flour (½ to 1 tablespoon): Used for rolling the dough to prevent sticking and add a subtle crunch.
Pizza sauce (½ cup): The tangy and herbaceous base layer that ties all flavors in each mini pizza.
Fresh mozzarella (5 oz / 140 grams): Melts beautifully creating that iconic gooey, creamy texture everyone loves.
Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Sprinkled for an earthy, aromatic punch that complements the cheese and sauce.
Fresh basil (3 tablespoons, coarsely chopped): Adds freshness and a bright, herbaceous contrast to the rich toppings.

How to Make Mini Pizzas Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by mixing the flour, salt, and yeast in a large bowl. Slowly add the lukewarm water and olive oil, combining everything until the dough forms. Knead it on a floured surface until it’s smooth and elastic, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. This hands-on step is so satisfying and really sets the stage for fluffy, tender mini pizzas.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

Place the kneaded dough in an oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let it rest in a warm spot for about 1 to 1 ½ hours until it doubles in size. Watching your dough puff up is like waiting for a little magic to happen.

Step 3: Shape the Mini Pizzas

After the dough has risen, punch it down gently and divide it into small equal portions. Roll each piece out on a lightly floured surface using flour or semolina flour to prevent sticking. Aim for rounds roughly 3 to 4 inches in diameter—perfect little canvases for your toppings.

Step 4: Add the Sauce and Toppings

Spread a generous spoonful of pizza sauce over each dough round, leaving a small border around the edges to keep the crust crisp. Top with torn fresh mozzarella or a sprinkle of shredded cheese followed by a pinch of dried oregano and fresh basil. This layering of flavors ensures each bite is vibrant and full of character.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to around 475°F (245°C). Arrange the mini pizzas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 8 to 12 minutes or until the crusts turn golden and cheese bubbles deliciously. The high heat seals in the freshness and creates a delightful contrast between crispy crust and melty toppings.

How to Serve Mini Pizzas Recipe

The image shows two side-by-side scenes on a white marbled surface. On the left, there is a wooden rolling pin next to a white board with rolled out dough, where twelve small round dough pieces have been cut out but still attached in some places, with extra dough around the edges and four separate small circles placed near the board. On the right side, a baking tray lined with parchment paper holds 18 small round pizza dough bases. Each dough base is topped with a layer of bright red tomato sauce spread evenly, a dollop of white cheese in the center, and sprinkled with green dried herbs. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Finishing your mini pizzas with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, a pinch of flaky sea salt, or some freshly cracked black pepper can elevate their flavor to even greater heights. A sprinkle of more fresh basil or red pepper flakes adds a lovely hint of heat and color that make the presentation as exciting as the taste.

Side Dishes

Mini pizzas pair wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette or a plate of roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving with garlic bread or a light soup. These combos complement the pizza’s rich flavors without competing for attention.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these mini pizzas on a rustic wooden board or an elegant platter lined with parchment paper. Arrange them in a circle or in colorful layers to make the spread visually inviting. You might also offer a few bowls of extra toppings for a build-your-own pizza party vibe, making it interactive and fun for everyone involved.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. These mini pizzas keep well for up to 2 days, and the flavors meld beautifully overnight, making for a great next-day snack or quick meal.

Freezing

To freeze, cool the mini pizzas completely after baking, then place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months, ideal for spontaneous pizza cravings.

Reheating

For the best reheated experience, warm the mini pizzas in a hot oven (about 375°F or 190°C) for 5 to 8 minutes, which crisps the crust and revives the cheese’s melty goodness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crust from getting soggy.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pizza dough for this Mini Pizzas Recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought dough can save you time and still yield delicious results. Just make sure to follow the shaping and topping steps as described for the best mini pizza experience.

What if I don’t have fresh mozzarella? Can I substitute it?

You can substitute fresh mozzarella with shredded mozzarella or a mozzarella blend. While fresh mozzarella melts creamier, shredded cheese still gives that classic cheesy stretch and flavor.

Can I make these mini pizzas gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for pizza dough. The texture might differ slightly, but you can still enjoy a tasty Mini Pizzas Recipe tailored to your dietary needs.

How do I make the crust crispy?

Using semolina flour for rolling and baking the pizzas in a very hot oven helps achieve a crispy crust. Also, avoid overloading the mini pizzas with sauce or toppings, which can weigh the dough down.

Is it possible to prepare this recipe without fresh basil?

Definitely! If fresh basil is unavailable, dried basil or other fresh herbs like oregano or parsley can be good alternatives. Each will bring a unique touch to your Mini Pizzas Recipe.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly joyful about making and sharing these bite-sized delights, and this Mini Pizzas Recipe captures the very essence of the perfect comfort food. Whether for a casual night in, a gathering with friends, or just because, these mini pizzas bring smiles and satisfaction every single time. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and dive into making a batch—you won’t regret it!

Mini Pizzas Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need