Adaline Recipes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pizza stands out with its balance of creamy, tangy, and herbaceous flavors. The blend of three cheeses creates a rich, melty base, while lemon zest adds a refreshing brightness. It’s quick to assemble, easy to customize, and feels both comforting and gourmet at the same time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
pizza dough
olive oil
garlic cloves (minced)
mozzarella cheese (shredded)
ricotta cheese
parmesan cheese (grated)
lemon zest
fresh basil leaves
salt
black pepper
red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F) or higher if using a pizza stone.

Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness and transfer it to a baking sheet or pizza stone.

Brush the dough lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic.

Spread dollops of ricotta cheese evenly over the dough, then add shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan.

Sprinkle lemon zest evenly across the top and season with salt and black pepper.

Bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Remove from the oven and top with fresh basil leaves and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.

Slice and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2–4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10–15 minutes
Total time: about 25 minutes

Variations

You can add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. Swap ricotta with goat cheese for a tangier flavor. Add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for more texture and color. For a crispier crust, bake directly on a preheated pizza stone.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 8–10 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat to keep the crust crisp.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, store-bought dough works perfectly for convenience.

What three cheeses work best?

Mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan provide a great balance of melt and flavor.

Can I make this pizza gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free pizza crust.

How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?

Avoid overloading with toppings and preheat your oven properly.

Can I add a sauce base?

This pizza is designed without a traditional sauce, but a light garlic or white sauce can be added.

Is fresh basil necessary?

Fresh basil is recommended for the best flavor, but dried basil can be used in a pinch.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead, but bake just before serving for best results.

What does lemon add to the pizza?

It brings brightness and enhances the richness of the cheeses.

Can I freeze leftover pizza?

Yes, wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

What pairs well with this pizza?

A fresh salad or light soup complements the flavors nicely.

Conclusion

This 3 cheese lemon basil pizza is a simple yet elegant dish that brings together creamy cheeses, fresh herbs, and citrusy brightness. It’s perfect for a quick meal that feels special and full of flavor.

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