Heart-Shaped Pizza with Mozzarella

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

Highlighted under: Family Kitchen

I love making this Heart-Shaped Pizza with Mozzarella for special occasions because it’s a fun twist on classic pizza. The heart shape not only adds a romantic touch, but it also makes me feel creative in the kitchen. The gooey mozzarella melts beautifully, and the fresh ingredients make it a delightful meal that brings a smile to everyone’s face. Whether we're celebrating Valentine’s Day or a cozy night in, this pizza never fails to impress.

Created by

Gemma Hollis

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:46:37.240Z

When I first tried making a heart-shaped pizza, I didn’t realize how much joy it would bring to my family. The combination of fresh mozzarella and homemade tomato sauce creates a deliciously gooey experience that I can’t get enough of. I remember the first time I surprised my partner with this pizza; the look on their face was priceless.

One tip I’ve found is to use high-quality cheese. The mozzarella really elevates the pizza, offering that perfect stretch and creamy flavor. I also like to add some fresh basil on top right before serving for an extra layer of flavor that’s irresistible.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Heart-shaped presentation perfect for any romantic occasion
Delicious combination of fresh mozzarella and homemade sauce
Customizable toppings to suit any taste preference

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is crucial for achieving the best flavor in your Heart-Shaped Pizza. Opt for high-quality mozzarella that melts beautifully, creating that gooey, stretchy cheese that everyone loves. Fresh basil leaves not only add a pop of color but also contribute a fragrant aroma and rich flavor that elevate the overall taste of the pizza. Consider visiting a local farmers' market for the freshest produce, which can significantly enhance the dish.

When choosing your pizza sauce, look for a variety that balances acidity and sweetness. If you're up for a little extra effort, making your sauce from scratch allows you to control the seasoning. Simple blends of crushed tomatoes with garlic and olive oil cooked down for about 20 minutes yield a rich, flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with mozzarella.

Techniques for Perfecting Your Dough

Kneading the pizza dough is a critical step that helps develop gluten, providing the structure for a chewy crust. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, which is key to a good rise. If the dough feels sticky, add small amounts of flour until it reaches a manageable consistency. After kneading, allowing the dough to rise in a warm area, ideally around 75-80°F (24-27°C), ensures optimal yeast activity to create that fluffy texture.

When rolling out the dough, a heart shape can be tricky—don’t stress over it being perfectly symmetrical. Using your fingertips to gently create the curves of the heart can help; if the dough shrinks back, let it rest for an additional 5-10 minutes to relax the gluten. This process makes shaping a lot easier and helps avoid tough crusts.

Ingredients

For the Pizza Dough

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

For the Toppings

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup pizza sauce
Fresh basil leaves
Olive oil for drizzling
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. In a separate bowl, mix flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is ready, add it along with olive oil to the flour mixture. Knead until smooth, then let it rise covered, in a warm place for 30 minutes.

Shape the Pizza

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a heart shape on a lightly floured surface. Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Add Sauce and Toppings

Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a border. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously over the sauce, then add any additional toppings you prefer.

Bake the Pizza

Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and top with fresh basil before slicing. Enjoy your romantic heart-shaped pizza!

Pro Tips

For a crispier crust, consider pre-baking the dough for 5 minutes before adding sauce and toppings. Additionally, use fresh ingredients to enhance the flavor profile.

Baking Tips

Getting the oven temperature right is essential for a beautifully baked pizza. Preheating to 475°F (245°C) ensures a crispy crust and bubbly cheese. Use a pizza stone if you have one; this helps retain heat and creates an even bake. If you don’t have a stone, simply placing the pizza on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper works well too.

Keep an eye on your pizza during the last few minutes of baking. The ideal visual cue is golden edges with bubbling cheese. If you want an extra touch, switch to broil for the last 1-2 minutes, but make sure to watch closely to prevent burning.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the softness of the crust, avoid stacking or weighing down the slices. When you’re ready to enjoy your pizza again, a great tip is to reheat it in a skillet over medium heat. This method helps restore the crispness of the crust while thoroughly warming your toppings without making them rubbery.

For longer storage, consider freezing the pizza. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag, where they can last up to 2 months. To reheat frozen pizza, bake it directly from frozen at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, checking that the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Absolutely! Store-bought dough is a great time-saver and still delicious.

→ What can I substitute for mozzarella?

Try provolone or gouda for a different flavor, or use vegan cheese for a plant-based version.

→ Can I freeze the pizza dough?

Yes! You can freeze the dough after it has risen. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using.

→ What are some great toppings for this pizza?

I love adding pepperoni, bell peppers, or even arugula after baking for a fresh touch.