Heart-Shaped Pizza
This heart-shaped pizza is simple, flexible, and festive. It comes together in under 30 minutes from oven-to-table and is perfect for date nights, Valentine's gatherings, or themed kids' parties.
Ingredients
For the Pizza Base
- 340–400 g pizza dough (store-bought or homemade; room temperature is easier to shape) 340–400 g yields a 12–14 inch heart with a tender but not-too-thick crust.
- 15 ml olive oil For brushing the crust.
- Pinch salt To season the crust.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
For the Toppings
- 120 ml tomato sauce or marinara Use a smooth pizza sauce for even coverage.
- 120–170 g shredded mozzarella cheese Use low-moisture for less sogginess.
- as needed Pepperoni slices or veggie toppings (bell pepper pieces, cherry tomato halves, or olives) Create heart shapes or any pattern you like.
- Handful fresh basil leaves, torn Optional garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it on the middle rack to heat.
- Lightly flour your work surface. Roll the dough into a rough 12–14 inch circle. For a heart: fold or pinch the top center to form two rounded lobes, then press the bottom into a point.
- Transfer the shaped dough to parchment or a lightly oiled baking sheet. If using a stone, slide the parchment (with the dough) onto the hot stone.
Assembly
- Brush the crust lightly with olive oil and sprinkle a pinch of salt and the dried oregano over the outer edge.
- Spoon 120 ml of tomato sauce onto the dough. Spread into a thin, even layer, leaving about a 1/2 inch border for the crust.
- Sprinkle 120–170 g shredded mozzarella evenly over the sauce.
- Arrange pepperoni slices or veggie pieces into small heart shapes, or scatter them in an attractive pattern.
Cooking
- Bake 10–12 minutes, until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly. For a crisper crust, give it an extra 1–2 minutes but watch the edges closely.
- Remove the pizza and let it rest 2–3 minutes. Tear fresh basil over the top if using. Slice into generous wedges and serve.
Notes
Tip: If your oven runs hot, rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even browning.