A refreshing twist on traditional pizza, this 3-Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza brings together creamy cheeses, zesty lemon, and fresh basil for a vibrant and flavorful meal. With its light, citrusy notes and gooey cheese blend, this pizza is perfect for spring or summer dining, whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bright and fresh flavor profile with lemon and basil
Uses three delicious cheeses for a rich, melty texture
Perfect for vegetarians and cheese lovers alike
Quick and easy to make with minimal prep time
Great for customizing with additional toppings

ingredients

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

Pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Olive oil
Ricotta cheese
Mozzarella cheese, shredded
Parmesan cheese, grated
Fresh lemon zest
Fresh basil leaves
Garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

directions

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
Brush the dough with olive oil and sprinkle minced garlic evenly across.
Spread a layer of ricotta cheese over the dough.
Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
Add lemon zest evenly across the top.
Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated stone or sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
Remove from the oven and immediately top with fresh basil leaves.
Slice and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes one 12-inch pizza, serving 2-3 people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 12 minutes.

Variations

Add arugula or baby spinach after baking for an extra fresh layer
Include thinly sliced red onions or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and color
Use goat cheese in place of ricotta for a tangier twist
Try a gluten-free or cauliflower crust to accommodate dietary preferences

storage/reheating

Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes until warm and crispy. Avoid microwaving to preserve the crust texture.

FAQs

Can I use pre-made pizza dough?

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

What kind of mozzarella should I use?

Low-moisture shredded mozzarella is ideal for even melting without excess moisture.

Can I make this pizza without ricotta?

Absolutely. You can substitute ricotta with goat cheese or just use extra mozzarella and Parmesan.

Is fresh lemon juice necessary?

No, only lemon zest is used in this recipe for a bright citrus note.

Can I grill this pizza instead of baking it?

Yes, this pizza can be cooked on a grill using a pizza stone or grill-safe pan.

How thin should I roll out the dough?

About 1/4 inch thick works well, but adjust based on your crust preference.

Can I freeze this pizza?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the baked pizza and reheat in the oven.

What herbs can I use besides basil?

Fresh oregano or thyme can be nice alternatives or additions to basil.

Is this pizza good for kids?

Yes, it has a mild, cheesy flavor that kids often enjoy.

Can I add meat to this pizza?

Sure! Prosciutto or grilled chicken make great additions for added protein.

Conclusion

This 3-Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza is a refreshing take on a classic favorite, offering layers of cheesy goodness balanced by zesty lemon and aromatic basil. Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing guests, this unique pizza is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.