White Pizza
A delicious alternative to traditional red sauce pizza, this recipe features a creamy garlic-ricotta sauce, gooey mozzarella, and fresh basil on a perfectly crisp crust. It's a sophisticated yet easy-to-make pie that's perfect for any pizza night.
For 4 servings
Prepare the Pizza Dough
- In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and 1 tsp of salt.
- Add the warm water and 2 tbsp of olive oil. Mix with a spoon or the dough hook attachment until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 6-8 minutes (or in the mixer for 5-7 minutes) until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Form the dough into a ball, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, and cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for 60-90 minutes, or until doubled in size.
Preheat Oven and Make White Sauce
- Place a pizza stone or a heavy, inverted baking sheet on the middle rack of your oven. Preheat the oven to 500°F (260°C) for at least 45 minutes.
- While the oven preheats, prepare the sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, 2 tbsp of olive oil, the remaining 1/2 tsp of salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Shape and Assemble the Pizza
- Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down and place it on a lightly floured surface.
- Carefully stretch the dough by hand into a 12-inch circle, being careful not to tear it. Place the stretched dough on a piece of parchment paper.
- Spread the creamy ricotta mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border for the crust.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
- Brush the exposed crust with the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil.
Bake the Pizza
- Carefully slide the pizza (on the parchment paper) onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and has some lightly browned spots.
Garnish and Serve
- Using a pizza peel or tongs, carefully remove the pizza from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for 2-3 minutes. This allows the cheese to set, making it easier to slice.
- Garnish generously with fresh basil leaves. Slice and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the crispiest crust, a pizza stone or steel is highly recommended. Ensure it is fully preheated with the oven for at least 45 minutes.
- 2Use whole milk ricotta and low-moisture mozzarella. Skim versions can be watery and won't provide the same rich flavor or creamy texture.
- 3Don't press down on the outer edge of the dough when stretching it. This will preserve the air bubbles and create a puffy, airy crust.
- 4A light dusting of cornmeal on the parchment paper can add a nice texture to the bottom of the crust and help it slide easily.
- 5Let the pizza rest for a few minutes before slicing. This prevents the cheese and toppings from sliding off.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add cooked, shredded chicken, dollops of Italian sausage, or thin slices of prosciutto (add prosciutto in the last 2 minutes of baking) for a heartier pizza.
Veggie DelightVeggie Delight
Top with sautéed spinach (squeeze out all excess water), sliced mushrooms, or caramelized onions before adding the mozzarella.
Gourmet FinishGourmet Finish
After baking, drizzle with a high-quality balsamic glaze, a touch of truffle oil, or a swirl of hot honey for a sweet and spicy kick.
Herbaceous TwistHerbaceous Twist
Mix 1 teaspoon of dried oregano or fresh chopped rosemary into the ricotta sauce for an extra layer of aromatic flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese makes this pizza a significant source of protein, which is crucial for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance.
Excellent Source of Calcium
Cheese is packed with calcium, an essential mineral for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. A serving of this pizza contributes significantly to your daily calcium needs.
Contains Allicin from Garlic
Fresh garlic contains allicin, a compound known for its potential immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties, adding a healthful touch to the flavorful sauce.
Frequently asked questions
A serving of this White Pizza, which is about two slices (1/4 of the pizza), contains approximately 550-600 calories, depending on the exact ingredients used.