Craving a pizza that’s a delightful departure from the traditional tomato-covered varieties? Look no further than white pizza. This stunning dish features a creamy, garlic-infused ricotta base topped with fresh mozzarella and a sprinkle of aromatic herbs. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. With a perfectly crispy crust and rich, savory toppings, white pizza is a culinary dream come true.
Why It Deserves a Spot
White pizza is not just another pizza; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings a unique twist to your dinner table. The absence of tomato sauce allows the richness of the cheeses and the freshness of the herbs to shine. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a lighter option or for anyone who appreciates the creamy lusciousness of ricotta. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize with your favorite toppings, making it a versatile dish. Serve it with a side salad, and you have a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Ingredients at a Glance
- 1 pound pizza dough, store-bought or homemade
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, grated
- Heaping 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese (we like Belgioioso because it’s the creamiest)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- Cornmeal, for stretching the dough
- 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, torn
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan or pecorino cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Red pepper flakes, to taste
Recommended Tools
- Pizza Stone or Baking Sheet: Essential for achieving that crispy crust.
- Pizza Peel: Helps in transferring the pizza easily to the oven.
- Baking Mat or Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Grater: For fresh garlic and cheese, ensuring maximum flavor.
Cook White Pizza Like This
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you’re using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up. Dust a clean surface with cornmeal and stretch out your pizza dough to your desired shape and thickness. Aim for about 12 inches in diameter for a perfect balance of crust and toppings.
Step 2: Create the Ricotta Base
In a mixing bowl, combine the whole milk ricotta cheese, grated garlic, fresh thyme leaves, lemon zest, and sea salt. Mix until smooth and creamy. This will be the base for your white pizza, bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Pizza
Brush the stretched pizza dough with extra-virgin olive oil. Spread the ricotta mixture over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Next, scatter the torn fresh mozzarella evenly across the top, followed by the freshly grated Parmesan or pecorino cheese.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Using a pizza peel, carefully transfer your assembled pizza onto the hot pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the pizza cool for a minute. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Slice and enjoy your delicious white pizza!
Better Choices & Swaps
- Gluten-Free Pizza Dough: Use a gluten-free alternative if you’re avoiding gluten.
- Vegan Cheese: Swap out the cheeses for your favorite plant-based options.
- Spinach or Kale: Add sautéed greens for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Toss in some halved cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.
Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary
This white pizza is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different herbs or cheeses based on your preferences. If you want to add a protein component, consider topping with grilled chicken or prosciutto after baking. The key is to maintain balance; don’t overload your pizza with too many toppings, as it can make the crust soggy.
- Storage: Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat in an oven or toaster oven for the best texture.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
To keep your ingredients fresh, store your ricotta cheese tightly sealed in the refrigerator. Use fresh mozzarella within a few days of purchasing for the best flavor. If you have leftover pizza dough, you can freeze it for future use. Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight bag. It can be thawed in the refrigerator overnight when you’re ready to make another pizza!
FAQ
Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough is a great time-saver, and many brands offer delicious options. Just follow the package instructions for stretching and baking.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta on hand, you can use cottage cheese or even a creamy goat cheese for a tangy twist.
Can I make white pizza ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the ricotta mixture and stretch the dough ahead of time. Assemble the pizza just before baking for the best texture and flavor.
What toppings pair well with white pizza?
Aside from the classic ricotta and mozzarella, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, artichokes, or even a drizzle of truffle oil for an elevated experience.
Final Thoughts
You’ve now mastered the art of creating a delicious, homemade white pizza that will surely impress your family and friends. With its creamy cheese base and fresh ingredients, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it on a casual weeknight or serving it at a gathering, it’s bound to be a hit. So roll out that dough, gather your toppings, and indulge in a slice (or two) of pizza perfection!
White Pizza
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Dough: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up. Dust a clean surface with cornmeal and stretch out your pizza dough to your desired shape and thickness, aiming for about 12 inches in diameter.
- Step 2: Create the Ricotta Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the whole milk ricotta cheese, grated garlic, fresh thyme leaves, lemon zest, and sea salt. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Step 3: Assemble the Pizza: Brush the stretched pizza dough with extra-virgin olive oil. Spread the ricotta mixture over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Scatter the torn fresh mozzarella and grated Parmesan or pecorino cheese evenly across the top.
- Step 4: Bake to Perfection: Using a pizza peel, carefully transfer your assembled pizza onto the hot pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Step 5: Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the pizza cool for a minute. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs or cheeses based on your preferences.
- Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- To enjoy leftovers, reheat in an oven or toaster oven for the best texture.
