If you’re craving a pizza that’s bursting with vibrant flavor but still somehow feels light and fresh, then the 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine the perfect crispy crust, layered with a melty trio of mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan cheeses, all lifted by the zesty brightness of thinly sliced lemon and a generous handful of fresh basil. It’s a mouthwatering balance of creamy, tangy, and herbal notes that turns a simple pizza night into something truly memorable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white round flatbread sits on a white marbled surface, topped with a swirl of creamy hummus. On top of the hummus, there are scattered light purple onion petals with a soft, slightly shiny texture, small green sprigs of fresh thyme with tiny leaves, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds and crushed chili flakes adding specks of brown and red. A drizzle of golden olive oil glistens across the surface, enhancing the creamy and fresh ingredients. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients might look straightforward, but each one plays a pivotal role in creating a pizza that sings with flavor and texture. From the aromatic herbs to the three kinds of luscious cheese, every element contributes to the irresistible charm of this dish.

1/2 pound ball of pizza dough: The foundation of any great pizza, providing a chewy and crisp base.
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps create a golden, crispy crust.
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, nutty depth enhancing the savory flavor.
2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds: Adds a subtle crunch and a nutty aroma that’s unexpected but wonderful.
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves: Brings an earthy, slightly minty herbiness to the flavor profile.
2 cloves garlic, chopped: Infuses the pizza with that classic, aromatic warmth.
1 shallot, halved, and leaves separated: Provides a mild sweetness that roasts beautifully in the oven.
Chili flakes: Give just a hint of spice to balance the brightness of the lemon.
1 teaspoon honey: A touch of sweetness that enhances the caramelization of toppings and balances the acidity.
3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Creamy and stretchy, it’s every pizza lover’s favorite melting cheese.
3/4 cup shredded provolone cheese: Adds a mild smoky flavor complementing the mozzarella.
1 small Meyer or regular lemon, thinly sliced: The secret star, lending fresh citrus brightness in every bite.
So much fresh basil: The fragrant, leafy herb that brings a garden-fresh pop of color and flavor.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Begin by preheating your oven to 450° F to get it nice and hot, which is key for a crispy crust. On a lightly floured surface, stretch or roll out your pizza dough into a thin circle, roughly 10-12 inches in diameter. This provides the perfect base to build all those amazing flavors.

Step 2: Layer the Flavor Base

Transfer the stretched dough onto a baking sheet. Lightly brush the entire surface with extra virgin olive oil — this not only helps to crisp the crust but also adds richness. Next, sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese evenly across the dough; the cheese acts like a flavor glue for the rest of the toppings. Scatter the toasted sesame seeds, fresh thyme leaves, chopped garlic, shallot leaves, and sprinkle a pinch of chili flakes for a gentle heat. To finish this aromatic foundation, drizzle a teaspoon of honey over the top, which will caramelize wonderfully in the oven.

Step 3: Add the Cheeses and Lemon

Now the spotlight turns to the cheeses. Evenly spread the shredded mozzarella and provolone over the base, creating a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth layer. Then carefully arrange thin slices of lemon on top of the cheese — this citrus touch brings brightness and a beautiful aroma as it bakes.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the pizza in your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling with delightful browning spots. Keep an eye on it to make sure the lemon slices don’t burn.

Step 5: Fresh Basil Finish

Once out of the oven, immediately scatter two big handfuls of fresh basil over the hot pizza. The residual heat will gently wilt the basil, releasing its vibrant aroma and adding a fresh, herbal finish that perfectly complements the richness of the cheeses and the zing of the lemon.

How to Serve 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza Recipe

A round pizza on light brown parchment paper over a white marbled surface has three layers: the base is a pale dough crust with some sesame seeds on the edge, the middle is spread with shredded white cheese and thin slices of white cheese, and the top is decorated with thin yellow lemon slices and fresh bright green basil leaves scattered evenly across the pizza photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To really elevate your pizza presentation and flavor, add an extra sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving. For those who love a bit of spice, a light dusting of chili flakes can add a beautiful kick.

Side Dishes

This pizza pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to echo that citrus note. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes add color and balance, making your meal feel complete and fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the pizza into thin slices and serve it as an elegant appetizer at your next gathering, or present it alongside a charcuterie board with olives, cured meats, and nuts. Wrapping a slice in parchment paper makes a charming and casual lunch box treat that’s as delicious as it looks.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover pizza in an airtight container or wrapped tightly with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. It should keep well for up to 3 days without losing too much of its fresh flavors.

Freezing

If you’d like to enjoy the 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza Recipe later, you can freeze unbaked topped pizza by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

The best way to reheat pizza and keep that delightful crispness is in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, covered with a lid to warm the cheese thoroughly. Avoid the microwave if you want to preserve the texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?

Absolutely! Meyer lemons have a sweeter, less acidic profile that pairs beautifully with cheese, but regular lemons work just fine—just be sure to slice them thinly to avoid overpowering the pizza.

What if I don’t have provolone cheese? Can I substitute it?

You can substitute provolone with fontina or even a mild cheddar for a slightly different twist, but provolone’s mild smokiness really adds character, so it’s worth trying if you can.

Is it possible to make this recipe with store-bought pizza dough?

Yes! Using store-bought dough is a great shortcut that still yields fantastic results. Just follow the stretching and baking instructions as usual.

How important is the fresh basil in this recipe?

Fresh basil is the star herb that brightens the whole pizza. It’s best to add it after baking to preserve its fresh flavor and vibrant green color.

Can this pizza be made gluten-free?

Definitely. You can swap out the traditional dough for a gluten-free pizza crust, and the toppings remain the same for a delicious gluten-free version of the 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza Recipe.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about this 3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza Recipe that makes every bite feel like a celebration of fresh, exciting flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight or a fun gathering, this pizza promises to impress and delight. Grab your ingredients, let that oven heat up, and dive into a pizza experience that’s anything but ordinary!

3 Cheese Lemon Basil Pizza Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need