Quick & Flavorful Single-Serve Marinara Pizza
Dive into the world of homemade delights with our single-serve marinara pizza – a recipe that stands out for its simplicity and adaptability. This recipe is tailored for personalization and offers a unique chance to experiment with flavors and toppings, making each pizza experience truly your own.
Our single-serve marinara pizza recipe is perfect for those times when you want a meal that’s both satisfying and an effortless option for a quick lunch or dinner.
At its heart, Pizza Marinara is a classic Neapolitan delight. Traditionally, it’s a simple affair with just tomatoes, garlic, and oregano. We’re keeping it authentic with these key ingredients, but with a tiny twist.
While the original marinara skips the cheese, we’re adding a touch of mozzarella. Why? To bring in that extra layer of texture and flavor that cheese lovers crave.
This recipe isn’t just about ease and speed; it’s about enjoying a personalized pizza night with an individual pizza experience. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick single pizza or a mini marinara pizza, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Using common ingredients, you’ll whip up a compact pizza treat that feels both familiar and exciting.
For a thin and crispy crust, use ½ lb of dough, but feel free to increase it to ⅔ or even 1 lb for a thicker crust.
Also, pick a good quality pizza dough as we have only a few ingredients in this recipe and the taste of your pizza is significantly influenced by the quality of the dough.
Quick Note:
If you have the time and inclination, consider making your own dough, portion it, and freeze it. If you’re interested in my dough recipe, let me know in the comments, and I’ll be happy to share it.
Get ready to indulge in your very own easy solo pizza adventure!
🌟 Recipe Tips
- Dough Consistency: The base of any good pizza is its dough. For a quick single pizza, ensure your dough is at the right temperature. If using refrigerated dough, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling it out. This makes it easier to shape and helps achieve a better crust.
- Sauce Selection: The tomato sauce is the star of a marinara pizza. Choose a high-quality sauce or make your own for a truly personalized touch. Remember, the sauce should be flavorful but not overpowering. It’s all about balance.
- Spice it Right: Dried oregano is a traditional herb in marinara pizza. Don’t be shy with it, as it offers that authentic Italian flavor. However, be mindful of the quantity to avoid overwhelming the other flavors.
- Cheese Matters: Since traditional marinara pizza doesn’t include cheese, adding mozzarella is a personal twist. Opt for fresh mozzarella and use it sparingly. It should add texture and richness without dominating the pizza.
- Anchovies for Umami: Anchovies pack a punch of umami, which complements the simplicity of the other ingredients. If you’re new to anchovies, start with a small amount to gauge your preference.
- Oven Temperature: The key to a great mini marinara pizza is a hot oven. Preheat your oven to the highest setting for at least 15 minutes before baking. This mimics the high heat of traditional pizza ovens and ensures a crisp crust.
- Watch the Time: Since this is a compact pizza treat, it cooks quickly. Keep an eye on your oven, as just a minute too long can mean the difference between perfect and overdone.
🥘 Ingredients & Substitutes
- Pizza Dough creates the base and structure of your pizza. If pizza dough is not on hand, a pre-made flatbread or a tortilla can be a quick, thin substitute, offering a different but equally delicious base.
- Tomato Sauce is the heart of the marinara, bringing tangy and rich flavors. If you’re out of tomato sauce, a blend of crushed tomatoes with a pinch of salt and a dash of olive oil can mimic its taste and consistency quite well.
- Dried Oregano adds the quintessential herby flavor that’s key to a marinara’s character. No dried oregano in the spice rack? Try dried basil or Italian seasoning for a similar aromatic touch.
- Anchovies provide a unique umami and salty flavor. If they’re not your thing or you don’t have them, capers or a sprinkle of sea salt mixed with a touch of soy sauce can offer a comparable savory depth.
- Mozzarella Cheese adds creaminess and texture. If mozzarella is missing from your fridge, try using provolone for a similar melt and mild flavor, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for a sharper taste.
👩🍳 Directions
So, let’s begin. Once the dough is ready, you’re just a few minutes away from enjoying your pizza. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Then, take your baking tray and cover it with parchment paper, lightly drizzled with some olive oil. Place the dough ball on the tray. With oiled fingers, stretch the dough to your preferred thickness.
Spread tomato sauce over the dough, but not quite to the edges – this helps them become even crispier. After that, generously sprinkle oregano, a key flavor element.
Finally, tear three anchovy fillets and distribute them evenly across the pizza.
When the oven is hot, bake the pizza for about 10-15 minutes on the second-to-last rack. Keep an eye on the crust; it’s ready when the edges start to brown. As soon as the crust is golden, remove the pizza from the oven and sprinkle grated cheese over it.
Return the pizza to the oven for a maximum of 5 minutes, just until the cheese melts.
Your aromatic, crispy, and delicious pizza is ready to be served. I advise you to enjoy it while it’s hot. That’s when the melted cheese stretches beautifully, the crust is absolutely crispy, and all the flavors are at their best.
The sweet and sour taste from the tomatoes, the salty umami from the anchovy fillets, the delicate aroma of oregano, and the creaminess from the cheese all combine into a simple, delicious perfection.
🍴 How to Double the Recipe:
Doubling your single-serve marinara pizza recipe is simple and efficient, perfect for when you have company or want extra for later.
When it comes to preparation, you can either make two individual pizzas simultaneously, if your oven space allows, or prepare them one after the other to ensure each gets the perfect amount of heat and attention.
Remember to adjust cooking times slightly if baking both pizzas at once, as the oven may need a bit more time to evenly cook both. This way, you can easily cater to a personalized pizza night for two or have a delicious repeat of your compact pizza treat!
🍽️ Servings
Italian-Style Salad Combo
- Components: Pair your marinara pizza with a fresh Italian salad, consisting of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, black olives, thinly sliced red onion, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. For the dressing, a simple mix of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper enhances the flavors.
- Presentation: Serve the salad in a bowl beside your pizza. The vibrant colors of the salad will complement the rustic look of the pizza. Garnish the salad with a few basil leaves to tie in with the Italian theme.
- Occasion: This combination is perfect for a refreshing yet satisfying lunch or dinner, especially on warmer days when you crave something light alongside your pizza.
Soup and Pizza Pairing
- Components: Complement your pizza with a bowl of classic tomato basil soup. The soup requires canned tomatoes, fresh basil, vegetable stock, garlic, onions, and a touch of cream for richness.
- Presentation: Present the soup in a deep bowl, garnishing it with a swirl of cream and a basil leaf. Place the pizza slice on a plate beside the bowl, creating a visually appealing and inviting meal.
- Occasion: Ideal for a cozy dinner, particularly in cooler weather. The warm soup and hearty pizza create a comforting, homely meal.
Wine and Cheese Night
- Components: Elevate your pizza experience with a selection of cheeses (like Gouda, Cheddar, and Brie) and a glass of your favorite wine, preferably a light red or robust white that pairs well with the savory flavors of the pizza.
- Presentation: Arrange the cheeses on a wooden board with the pizza, and pour the wine into elegant glasses. Add some grapes or nuts to the cheese board for variety.
- Occasion: Perfect for a sophisticated yet relaxed evening with friends or a significant other, where the focus is on good food, good wine, and good company.
🍽️ Variations
Vegetarian Delight
- Variation: Replace anchovies with a mix of grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. This adds a delightful texture and a burst of veggie goodness, keeping the pizza light and colorful.
- Why Try It: Ideal for vegetarians or those looking to add more vegetables to their diet. The grilled veggies introduce a smoky flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the pizza.
Spicy Seafood Twist
- Variation: Add some heat by incorporating spicy shrimp alongside the anchovies. Marinate the shrimp in a mix of chili flakes, garlic, and lemon zest before adding to the pizza.
- Why Try It: Perfect for seafood lovers looking for a bit of a kick. The spicy shrimp complements the anchovies, adding a new dimension to your personal pizza experience.
Meat Lover’s Mini
- Variation: Top your pizza with thin slices of pepperoni or cooked Italian sausage for a meaty upgrade. The rich flavors of the meat pair well with the tangy tomato sauce and creamy mozzarella.
- Why Try It: A great option for those who crave a hearty, meat-filled pizza. It turns your compact pizza treat into a satisfying feast, ideal for a more indulgent personalized pizza night.
BBQ Chicken Pizza
- Variation: Swap out the anchovies for cooked, shredded chicken tossed in barbecue sauce. This gives a sweet and tangy twist to your marinara pizza.
- Why Try It: A delicious fusion that’s perfect for those who love the combination of BBQ and pizza. It’s a unique take on the classic marinara, offering a delightful blend of flavors.
Pesto Perfection
- Variation: Spread a thin layer of pesto sauce over the dough before adding the tomato sauce. This introduces a fresh, herby flavor to the pizza.
- Why Try It: For those who love the taste of basil and pine nuts, this variation adds an aromatic depth to the pizza. It’s a simple twist that brings a gourmet touch to your quick single pizza.
❄️ Storage
Refrigeration
- Duration: Your pizza will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Method: Place the pizza in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out and to keep the flavors intact.
- Consideration: Ensure the pizza is cooled to room temperature before refrigerating to avoid condensation inside the container, which can make the crust soggy.
Freezing
- Duration: For longer storage, the pizza can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Method: Wrap the pizza slices individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This method helps preserve the texture and taste and prevents freezer burn.
- Consideration: Label the container with the date, so you know how long the pizza has been in the freezer.
Thawing and Reheating
- Thawing: If frozen, thaw the pizza in the refrigerator overnight for the best results. Avoid thawing at room temperature as it can lead to bacterial growth.
- Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the thawed pizza on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-10 minutes, or until it’s heated through and the cheese is bubbly. You can also reheat it in a toaster oven or a microwave for a quicker option. When using a microwave, place a cup of water alongside the pizza to keep the crust from getting too chewy.
🤔 FAQs
How Can I Make This Pizza Without an Oven?
What Should I Do with Leftover Ingredients?
What’s the Best Way to Slice and Serve the Pizza?
📔 Recipe Card:
Quick & Flavorful Single-Serve Marinara Pizza
Equipment
- Baking Tray
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons Olive Oil
- 7 oz Pizza Dough
- 2 tablespoons Tomato Sauce
- ½ teaspoon Oregano Dried
- 3 fillets Anchovies
- 3 oz Mozzarella grated
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare a baking tray with parchment paper and a light drizzle of olive oil.2 teaspoons Olive Oil
- Place dough on tray and stretch to preferred thickness using oiled fingers.7 oz Pizza Dough
- Spread tomato sauce on dough, leaving edges bare. Sprinkle oregano over the sauce.2 tablespoons Tomato Sauce, ½ teaspoon Oregano
- Tear anchovy fillets and place evenly on the pizza.3 fillets Anchovies
- Bake for 10-15 minutes on the second-to-last rack until crust edges brown.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle with grated cheese. Return to oven for 5 minutes until cheese melts.3 oz Mozzarella
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Herb Options: While dried oregano is traditional, feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
- Crust Thickness: Depending on your preference for a thin or thick crust, adjust the amount of dough you use. Remember, the thicker the crust, the longer it might need to cook.
- Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a less saucy pizza, use a thinner layer of tomato sauce. This also helps to keep the crust crispier.
- Cheese Variations: Apart from mozzarella, you can try different cheeses like ricotta for a creamier texture or a blend of Italian cheeses for more complexity.
- Toppings: Feel free to add fresh toppings like arugula or basil after baking for a fresh, peppery flavor.
- Spice Level: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can be added either before or after baking.
- Cookware: If you have a pizza stone, use it to bake your pizza for an extra crispy crust. Otherwise, a regular baking sheet works fine.
- Reheating Tip: If you have leftovers, reheat your pizza in a skillet on the stove over medium heat to keep the crust crispy.
Nutrition
Your Turn
We’d love to hear how your single-serve marinara pizza turned out! Please rate this recipe and share a comment about your experience. Did you personalize it with different toppings or a unique twist?
Your insights and variations could be incredibly helpful and inspiring for other pizza enthusiasts. Let’s build a community of shared experiences and tips to make every pizza night special and delicious!
