White Pizza Recipe

White pizza is a delicious and decadent alternative to the traditional tomato-based pizza. With its creamy ricotta, fresh mozzarella, and savory garlic flavor, this pizza is perfect for cheese lovers or anyone seeking a lighter, yet still indulgent, pizza experience. The absence of tomato sauce allows the richness of the cheeses and the subtle heat from crushed red pepper flakes to really shine through. Topped off with fresh basil and a crispy crust, this white pizza is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a weekend treat, or a special occasion, this white pizza recipe delivers a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, so you don’t have to be a pizza pro to create a gourmet meal. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps needed to make this irresistible white pizza.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Unique Flavor Profile

Unlike the classic pizza with tomato sauce, the white pizza offers a rich, creamy base that’s both savory and slightly sweet, thanks to the combination of ricotta and mozzarella.

2. Quick and Easy

This recipe is perfect for a quick meal since it uses store-bought dough, and the cooking process is simple and straightforward.

3. Versatile

Feel free to add your favorite toppings such as sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or even prosciutto for a customized version of this white pizza.

4. No Tomato Sauce

If you’re not a fan of tomato-based pizzas, this is a great alternative. The garlic, olive oil, and cheeses stand out on their own without the need for a tomato sauce base.

5. Cheesy Goodness

With three types of cheese—mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan—this pizza is a cheese lover’s dream. The combination creates a gooey, flavorful topping that perfectly complements the crispy crust.

Ingredients

• Yellow cornmeal
• Pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
• Extra-virgin olive oil
• Garlic (finely grated)
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• Fresh mozzarella (torn into small pieces)
• Ricotta cheese
• Freshly grated Parmesan
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Variations

1. Add Veggies

Top your white pizza with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or artichokes for an added burst of flavor and texture.

2. Add Protein

For a heartier version, try adding grilled chicken, sausage, or prosciutto for extra protein.

3. Make It Gluten-Free

For a gluten-free option, simply use gluten-free pizza dough or cauliflower crust.

4. Add a Balsamic Glaze

A drizzle of balsamic glaze after baking can add a sweet and tangy contrast to the richness of the pizza.

5. Make It Vegan

Swap the cheeses for vegan alternatives such as cashew cheese or dairy-free mozzarella to make this pizza suitable for a vegan diet.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up while you prepare the pizza.

Step 2: Prepare the Pizza Dough

Roll out your pizza dough on a surface dusted with yellow cornmeal. This helps prevent the dough from sticking and gives the crust a nice texture. Shape the dough into your desired size and thickness.

Step 3: Add the Olive Oil and Garlic

Brush the rolled-out dough with extra-virgin olive oil. Sprinkle the finely grated garlic evenly over the pizza dough. The olive oil and garlic will create a fragrant base for the cheeses to melt on.

Step 4: Add the Cheeses

First, spread the ricotta cheese in dollops across the dough. Then, scatter the torn pieces of fresh mozzarella evenly over the surface. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Season the Pizza

Sprinkle the crushed red pepper flakes over the pizza, and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This will add flavor and a subtle kick to the richness of the cheeses.

Step 6: Bake the Pizza

Transfer the prepared pizza to the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbling. Keep an eye on the pizza towards the end to avoid overcooking the crust.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the pizza is done, remove it from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and freshness. Slice and serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

1. Use a Pizza Stone

Using a pizza stone will help ensure a crispy, golden crust. If you don’t have a pizza stone, a baking sheet works just fine.

2. Preheat the Oven

Ensure that the oven and baking surface are fully preheated before placing the pizza inside. This will help cook the pizza evenly and create a crispier crust.

3. Don’t Overload with Sauce

Since white pizza relies on the richness of the cheeses and garlic, be careful not to overdo the olive oil or garlic, as it could overwhelm the pizza.

4. Experiment with Toppings

Feel free to get creative with your toppings—mushrooms, spinach, or even a sprinkle of truffle oil after baking will elevate the flavor of the pizza.

5. Keep the Pizza Thin

For a crispier texture, roll the dough thin and evenly. A thicker crust will take longer to cook and could result in a less crispy pizza.

How to Serve

White pizza can be enjoyed as a main dish or as a part of a larger meal. It pairs well with a fresh salad, such as a simple arugula salad with lemon dressing, or a side of roasted vegetables. For a more substantial meal, serve it alongside a bowl of soup, like a tomato bisque or minestrone. A light white wine or sparkling water makes for a great beverage pairing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover white pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot skillet or in the oven to maintain the crispiness of the crust.

Freezing

You can freeze the pizza before baking it for up to 2-3 months. Assemble the pizza on a baking sheet, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store it in the freezer. When you’re ready to bake it, simply transfer it directly from the freezer to the oven and bake as usual, but add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

To reheat your pizza, place it on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and the crust is warm and crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, store-bought dough is a great time-saver. Just be sure to follow the instructions for preheating the dough before assembling the pizza.

2. What’s the best cheese for white pizza?

A combination of fresh mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan works wonderfully for white pizza, as it provides a creamy texture and rich flavor.

3. Can I make this pizza without garlic?

Garlic adds a savory depth of flavor to white pizza, but if you’re not a fan, you can skip it or replace it with a sprinkle of onion powder.

4. Can I add meat to this pizza?

Yes, you can add cooked chicken, sausage, or prosciutto for a meaty version of white pizza.

5. Can I use a gluten-free pizza crust?

Yes, gluten-free pizza crust can be used in place of regular pizza dough to make this recipe gluten-free.

6. How do I get a crispy crust?

Make sure to preheat the oven and pizza stone, roll out the dough thinly, and avoid overloading the pizza with sauce or cheese to get a crispy, golden crust.

7. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh basil?

While fresh basil is ideal for garnish, you can substitute dried herbs like oregano or Italian seasoning for a slightly different flavor profile.

8. How long should I bake the pizza?

Bake the pizza for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and melted.

9. Can I freeze the pizza dough?

Yes, you can freeze pizza dough for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.

10. Can I add more cheese?

Absolutely! If you love cheese, feel free to add more mozzarella or experiment with other cheeses like fontina or gouda.

Conclusion

This White Pizza recipe is an irresistible combination of creamy, cheesy goodness with a light, crispy crust. It’s simple to prepare and offers a flavorful alternative to traditional pizza. Whether you enjoy it on its own or with a side of fresh greens, it’s sure to satisfy your pizza cravings in a whole new way. So grab your dough, cheeses, and garlic, and enjoy this deliciously indulgent white pizza!

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