Heart-Shaped Pizza with Mozzarella

Name: Heart-Shaped Pizza with Mozzarella
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet active dry yeast; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup warm water; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup marinara sauce; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; Fresh basil leaves (optional); Red pepper flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Collection

I’ve always found that making pizza at home brings a certain joy, especially when the pizza takes a heart shape! This Heart-Shaped Pizza with Mozzarella is not just a fun twist on the classic, but it's also an artful way to present a meal. I love experimenting with different toppings, and this one features gooey mozzarella that stretches beautifully with each bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to impress someone special, this recipe is bound to bring smiles around the table.

Created by

Natalie Evans

Last updated on 2026-01-08T11:45:44.028Z

When I first made this heart-shaped pizza, I was surprised by how simple it was to create something visually appealing. The key is to shape the dough properly, and I found that using a rolling pin helped me achieve the perfect dimensions. I also suggest letting the dough rest a bit before shaping, which makes it easier to work with.

Another tip I learned is to preheat your baking surface. Whether you're using a pizza stone or a simple baking sheet, a hot surface ensures a crispy crust that contrasts deliciously with the melting mozzarella on top. Believe me, it’s worth it!

        Why You'll Love This Pizza
        Unique heart shape perfect for special occasions
Gooey mozzarella that creates delightful cheese pulls
Customizable with your favorite toppings for personalized flair

      

Getting the Dough Just Right

When preparing the pizza dough, the yeast activation is crucial for achieving the perfect rise. Make sure your warm water is between 100°F and 110°F; too hot can kill the yeast, while too cool will prevent it from activating. After letting the yeast and sugar sit until frothy, you want to knead the dough until it's smooth and elastic—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes. A well-kneaded dough will stretch without tearing and contribute to a chewy crust.

While the dough rests, ensure it is covered with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out. The resting period allows the gluten to develop, which is key for a strong structure. If you’re in a hurry, you can let it rise in a warm place; placing it near a preheating oven works wonders. A successful rise is indicated when the dough has doubled in size, typically taking about 30 minutes.

Perfecting the Heart Shape

Shaping the pizza into a heart can be a fun challenge! Start by rolling the dough gently into a circle, then pinch the top slightly to form the point of the heart. Flatten the sides and pull them more to create a rounded shape; this method will help achieve a recognizable heart form. If the dough springs back while you’re shaping, let it rest for a few minutes to allow the gluten to relax before continuing.

Using parchment paper not only simplifies the transfer to the baking sheet but also prevents sticking and helps with even cooking. If you’re planning to make multiple pizzas, consider investing in a pizza peel, which can make moving raw pizzas in and out of the oven much easier.

Topping Variations to Try

While gooey mozzarella is a classic choice, feel free to mix it up with different cheeses! Add provolone for a sharper bite or goat cheese for a tangy balance. For a fun twist, try dollops of ricotta or blue cheese to create layers of flavor. Additionally, incorporating toppings like sliced olives or sun-dried tomatoes can elevate the overall taste experience, adding both saltiness and texture.

If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider adding vegetable toppings like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Sautéing these veggies beforehand will reduce their moisture content, keeping your pizza from becoming soggy. This technique is particularly useful for toppings that typically release water during baking.

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
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Toppings

1 cup marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh basil leaves (optional)
Red pepper flakes (optional)

Feel free to add any toppings you love!

Steps

Prepare the Dough

In a medium bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. In a large bowl, mix flour and salt, then make a well in the center. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, then knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth. Let it rise for 30 minutes.

Shape the Pizza

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a heart shape. Transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Add Sauce and Cheese

Spread marinara sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly on top.

Bake the Pizza

Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil and red pepper flakes if desired.

Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing.

Pro Tips

For a crispier crust, consider baking your pizza on a preheated pizza stone. You can also brush the edges of the crust with olive oil for added flavor and golden color.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store any uneaten pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the crust from getting too soft, you can place parchment paper between layers. Reheating can be done in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, ensuring that the crust gets crisp again. Alternatively, using a skillet over medium heat can help achieve a crunchy base while gently warming the toppings.

For longer storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, you can bake from frozen directly at 450°F for about 15-20 minutes. Just check the crust to ensure it gets golden and that the cheese is melted before serving.

Scaling the Recipe

This heart-shaped pizza recipe can easily be doubled if you’re hosting a gathering or want to make a fun family meal. For each additional pizza, simply multiply the ingredients accordingly and keep in mind that you might need to adjust your baking time depending on the size and thickness of the crusts. If you make multiple pizzas at once, use multiple baking sheets to ensure even cooking without overcrowding the oven.

When scaling down, you can divide the dough into smaller portions and make individual heart pizzas, which are perfect for kids or personal meals. Shape and portion control become key here, ensuring everyone gets their personalized pizza with their favorite toppings.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your dough doesn’t rise as expected, it may be due to the yeast being expired or the water being too hot or cold. Always check the expiration date on your yeast and use a thermometer to monitor the water temperature. If the dough feels too sticky after rising, sprinkle in a little more flour while kneading until you get the right consistency.

Another common issue is a soggy crust. This can happen if there’s too much sauce or toppings—less is often more. To prevent this, spread the marinara sauce in a thin layer, and try par-baking the crust for 5 minutes before adding toppings. This technique will help create a strong base and keep your pizza deliciously crisp.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought dough?

Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough is a great time-saver.

→ What other toppings can I use?

Feel free to mix it up with pepperoni, vegetables, or even fruits like pineapple.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Wrap any leftovers in foil or place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough before the first rise. Wrap it tightly and thaw in the fridge overnight before use.