If you’re searching for a new favorite weeknight indulgence or an impressive centerpiece for your next gathering, look no further than White Pizza. This irresistible twist on classic pizza features a pillowy crust topped with luscious ricotta, creamy mozzarella, plenty of Parmesan, and just the right amount of garlic and herbs. Every bite is gooey, garlicky, and so full of flavor, you won’t even miss the tomato sauce. Making it at home is wonderfully easy, guaranteeing pizzeria-quality results right from your oven!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of White Pizza lies in its simple yet high-impact ingredients. Each one adds something special, from rich cheeses to aromatic herbs, ensuring a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
- Pizza Dough: Your canvas for all the cheesy goodness; use homemade or store-bought for convenience.
- Ricotta Cheese: Provides a creamy, cloud-like texture and mild flavor that pairs beautifully with the other cheeses.
- Mozzarella Cheese: For that perfect gooey stretch and irresistible melt.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty, nutty depth and helps brown the top.
- Olive Oil: Infuses the crust with richness and helps achieve a golden finish.
- Garlic (minced): Brings bold flavor and wonderful aroma that defines every great White Pizza.
- Dried Oregano: A pinch instantly reminds you of classic pizzeria flavor.
- Dried Basil: For added herbaceous notes that complement the cheese.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Spice lovers, don’t skip this — just a hint adds an exciting kick.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning everything perfectly.
- Fresh Arugula or Basil (optional): A final flourish of peppery or fresh flavor to finish the pizza beautifully.
How to Make White Pizza
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pizza Stone
Preheat your oven to a blistering 475°F (245°C). If you’ve got a pizza stone, place it inside while the oven heats up — this gives you that ultra-crisp, restaurant-style crust. If not, a baking sheet works too; just don’t forget the parchment paper for easy transfer and cleanup.
Step 2: Shape the Dough
Lightly flour your work surface and roll or stretch the pizza dough into a circle or oval, aiming for your preferred thickness. Remember, thinner crust means even more crunch, while thicker gives you pillowy edges. Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza peel for assembling.
Step 3: Infuse the Crust with Flavor
Stir together the olive oil and minced garlic in a small bowl. Brush this mixture generously over the entire surface of the dough, from edge to edge. This garlic oil will soak into the crust and become golden and fragrant as it bakes, setting your White Pizza apart from the rest.
Step 4: Add Your Cheeses
Dot the crust with spoonfuls of ricotta, spacing them out so every bite gets a creamy surprise. Next, blanket the pizza evenly with shredded mozzarella, finishing with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan for that savory sharpness. The triple-cheese combo is what gives White Pizza its signature luxurious melty texture.
Step 5: Season and Bake
Sprinkle the pizza with dried oregano, dried basil, a pinch of salt and pepper, and if you dare, a scattering of red pepper flakes for heat. Slide your pizza into the hot oven and let it bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the crust is golden-brown with irresistible crispy edges.
Step 6: Garnish and Slice
Once your masterpiece emerges from the oven, crown it with fresh arugula or basil leaves for color and a fresh, peppery kick. Let the pizza cool slightly (just enough not to burn your fingers), then slice and serve while gloriously hot and gooey.
How to Serve White Pizza
Garnishes
For a finishing touch that elevates your White Pizza, a scatter of vibrant fresh basil or peppery arugula brings both beauty and a burst of fresh flavor. If you’re feeling playful, a drizzle of hot honey or extra-virgin olive oil is divine right before serving.
Side Dishes
White Pizza truly shines alongside a crisp salad — arugula with lemon vinaigrette or a classic Caesar are both fantastic contrasts to the gooey cheese. Roasted vegetables or a simple antipasto platter round out the meal for a true Italian-inspired feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your White Pizza into small squares for an easy party appetizer, or serve it topped with a pile of mixed greens for a modern riff on pizza salad. For special occasions, try individual mini pizzas so everyone gets their own piping-hot, cheesy pie.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any remaining slices tightly in foil or an airtight container, then pop them in the fridge. White Pizza keeps well for up to three days and makes an outrageously good cold snack (no judgment if you sneak a slice straight from the fridge!).
Freezing
To freeze, let your White Pizza cool completely first. Then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or use a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to two months, and know that the cheesy layers will hold up beautifully for future cravings.
Reheating
For the crispiest results, reheat your White Pizza slices in a hot oven or toaster oven at 375°F until warmed through and bubbling, about 8 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible — the crust will thank you!
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Absolutely! Whether you pick up fresh dough from your favorite bakery or grab a ball from the supermarket, store-bought dough works wonderfully and lets you have White Pizza on the table in record time.
Is White Pizza vegetarian?
This classic White Pizza recipe is indeed vegetarian, as it contains no meat or fish. If you’re strict about cheese types, look for cheeses made with vegetarian-friendly rennet.
What other toppings go well with White Pizza?
Think sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, spinach, roasted garlic, or cooked crumbled Italian sausage if you aren’t vegetarian. Pear slices and a drizzle of truffle oil can also take things in a gourmet direction!
Do I really need to use three types of cheese?
You get the best flavor and texture from the combination, but you can mix and match based on what you have. Ricotta is key to the creamy effect, while mozzarella brings the melt, and Parmesan finishes things off with punch.
Can I grill White Pizza instead of baking it?
Definitely! Roll your dough a bit thinner, oil one side, and place it directly on a hot grill. Flip after the underside is crisp, then add your toppings, cover, and cook until melted and bubbly. It adds amazing smokiness!
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably special about homemade White Pizza – it’s comforting, crowd-pleasing, and adaptable to every craving. Whether it’s your first time making it or your fiftieth, you’re in for cheesy, golden goodness every single time. Don’t wait another minute; bake up your own White Pizza and make tonight extra delicious!
Print
White Pizza Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 1 large pizza (about 8 slices) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy goodness of this White Pizza, a delightful twist on the classic Italian favorite. With a ricotta cheese base and a blend of flavorful cheeses, this pizza is a must-try for a cozy night in.
Ingredients
Pizza Dough:
- 1 pound pizza dough
Toppings:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh arugula or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while preheating.
- Prepare the dough: Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface and transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza peel.
- Prepare the toppings: Combine olive oil and minced garlic, then brush it over the dough. Add ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, seasonings, salt, and pepper.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with arugula or basil, slice, and serve hot.
Notes
- Add cooked crumbled Italian sausage or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Drizzle with hot honey for a sweet and savory twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
