Heart-Shaped Pizza with Mozzarella

Name: Heart-Shaped Pizza with Mozzarella
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 pizzas
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet active dry yeast; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup warm water; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup marinara sauce; 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced; Fresh basil leaves; Olive oil for drizzling; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Quick Meals Collection

I absolutely adore making Heart-Shaped Pizza with Mozzarella for special occasions. The moment I pull it from the oven, the melted cheese and aromatic herbs create an irresistible aroma that fills the kitchen. I love how the shape transforms an ordinary pizza into a charming dish perfect for celebrations or surprise date nights. It’s incredibly simple to make yet impressive, ensuring that my loved ones feel special. Every bite offers that comforting flavor of pizza, elevated by the fun and love infused in its unique shape.

Created by

Rachel Green

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:17:34.815Z

Creating a heart-shaped pizza was an idea I stumbled upon during a cozy cooking night with friends. We decided to mix things up and make our meals a bit more festive. Using store-bought dough turned out to be a game-changer because it saved us time while still allowing plenty of room for creativity. I shaped the dough into hearts, topped it generously with fresh mozzarella, and loaded on my favorite toppings.

One of my key tips is to preheat your oven to a high temperature before baking. This ensures that the crust comes out perfectly crispy while the cheese melts beautifully. My friends were amazed at how something so simple could look so romantic, and it quickly became our go-to dish for date night or gatherings!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Delightfully fun shape that adds a personal touch
Fresh mozzarella offers a creamy, rich flavor
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh mozzarella is key to achieving that creamy texture and rich flavor in your heart-shaped pizza. Unlike pre-shredded cheese, fresh mozzarella melts beautifully and creates delightful, stretchy cheese pulls that enhance your pizza's allure. When selecting mozzarella, look for high-quality brands or local options, as they often provide a superior taste and quality.

Fresh basil leaves not only contribute a burst of color but also infuse your pizza with aromatic notes. Adding them just before serving helps retain their vibrant flavor, as cooking them can dull their brightness. If you're out of fresh basil, consider a sprinkle of dried Italian herbs or a pinch of dried basil as a substitute.

Tips for Perfect Dough

The dough is the backbone of your pizza, and proper hydration is crucial. If your dough feels too sticky after kneading, you can dust it with a small amount of flour, but avoid adding too much to prevent a dry texture. Kneading for about 8-10 minutes will develop gluten, giving the dough structure. A smooth, elastic dough is what you’re aiming for.

Letting the dough rise for 30 minutes will allow for a light texture. However, if you have more time, consider an extended cold rise in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This method enhances flavor development and texture, making for a tastier crust.

Ingredients

For the Pizza Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet active dry yeast
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup warm water
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Toppings

1 cup marinara sauce
8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
Fresh basil leaves
Olive oil for drizzling
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for 5 minutes until frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, then knead until the dough is smooth. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.

Shape the Pizza

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Divide the dough into two portions. Roll each into a heart shape on a floured surface, about 1/4 inch thick. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Add Toppings

Spread marinara sauce evenly over each pizza base. Layer with fresh mozzarella slices and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and basil leaves. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top.

Bake

Bake the pizzas in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and cut into slices. Enjoy your delightful heart-shaped pizza!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different toppings like pepperoni, bell peppers, or olives to make it your own. Also, using a pizza stone can enhance the crispness of the crust!

Serving Suggestions

For an elevated experience, pair your heart-shaped pizza with a side salad featuring light greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette. This contrast provides freshness and balances the richness of the mozzarella. Additionally, consider serving with a dipping sauce—perhaps a garlic-infused olive oil or a spicy marinara—to add an interactive element to your meal.

If you're entertaining, consider preparing mini heart-shaped pizzas as appetizers. Simply divide your dough into smaller portions for quick baking. Top these mini pizzas with different toppings to create a fun variety for your guests.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the pizza directly on the oven rack for about 10 minutes. This method helps regain crispness in the crust while keeping the cheese perfectly melted.

For longer storage, you can freeze the baked pizza. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer, where it can last up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven for the best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought dough for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough can save you time and still taste delicious.

→ What type of mozzarella should I use?

Fresh mozzarella is ideal for this recipe, but shredded mozzarella works too if that's what you have.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for pizza.

→ Can I freeze the dough?

Yes! You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just let it thaw overnight in the fridge before using.