As I stood in my kitchen, the rich scent of garlic wafting through the air, I couldn’t help but feel a small triumph—dinner was going to be something special. This Crispy White Pizza with Ricotta, or Pizza Bianca, is not only a celebration of creamy cheeses but also a fantastic solution for those busy weeknights when you crave something comforting yet quick. In just 30 minutes, you can bring a taste of Italy to your table, making it a hit with everyone from the little ones to sophisticated palates. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or enjoy the simplicity of its cheese-centric splendor. Are you ready to make pizza night a new favorite tradition?
Why is Everyone Raving About This Pizza?
Quick and Easy: Whipping up this pizza takes just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Cheese Lover’s Delight: Featuring ricotta, mozzarella, and provolone, this recipe highlights the heavenly goodness of creamy cheeses in each slice.
Versatile Options: Customize with your favorite toppings or stick to the classic for a simple yet satisfying meal. Try adding sautéed mushrooms or fresh arugula for extra flair!
Crispy Crust: Achieve that desirable crunch with a beautifully golden crust, ready to satisfy your cravings.
Family-Friendly: This dish delights both kids and adults, ensuring everyone will enjoy pizza night.
Gluten-Free Adaptable: Opt for gluten-free pizza dough to accommodate food preferences without sacrificing taste!
White Pizza with Ricotta Ingredients
For the Dough
• Pizza Dough – A homemade or store-bought base ensures a perfect foundation for your toppings.
For the Topping
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – This adds richness and helps achieve a golden crust; keep some extra for drizzling afterward.
• Garlic (3-4 cloves, minced) – Enhances flavor beautifully; adjust according to your garlic preference.
• Kosher Salt (½ teaspoon) – Essential for seasoning; feel free to substitute with sea salt if needed.
• Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon) – Adds mild heat; freshly ground pepper enhances the taste even more.
• Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese (8 ounces) – Provides a creamy texture; cottage cheese can be a lighter alternative.
• Fresh Mozzarella (3-4 ounces, sliced) – Creates a deliciously gooey topping; consider burrata for a more indulgent experience.
• Provolone Cheese (2-3 ounces, shredded) – Offers a sharp flavor profile; fontina or asiago can elevate the taste as well.
• Chopped Fresh Basil or Parsley (optional) – Adds freshness as a post-baking garnish, making your pizza visually appealing.
This White Pizza with Ricotta is not just a meal; it’s an experience that can transform any night into a delightful culinary adventure!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for https://scarlatifamilykitchen.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/white-pizza-with-ricotta-pizza-bianca-1152×1536.jpg
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up, ensuring a crispy base. For a baking pan, lightly grease it with olive oil or sprinkle with cornmeal for easy release. This initial step sets the stage for a beautifully baked White Pizza with Ricotta.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Take your pizza dough and stretch it into a 12-inch circle on a lightly floured surface. If the dough shrinks, let it rest for a few minutes before stretching it again. This helps develop the gluten, allowing for a perfect crust. Aim for an even thickness throughout for consistent cooking when it bakes.
Step 3: Add Olive Oil
Once your dough is shaped, drizzle a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil over the surface, using a brush to spread it evenly. This step not only adds flavor but also helps achieve that gorgeous golden crust. Feel free to use your hands if you don’t have a brush on hand!
Step 4: Season the Dough
Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly across the oiled surface, followed by kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. The aroma of garlic will soon fill your kitchen. This seasoning melds beautifully with the creamy toppings, creating a flavorful base for your White Pizza with Ricotta.
Step 5: Pre-Bake the Crust
Transfer the prepared dough to your preheated oven and pre-bake for 5 minutes. Watch closely as the crust begins to puff up and loses its shine; this initial baking step ensures a sturdy base for your toppings. When it’s done, remove it from the oven and set aside for a moment.
Step 6: Layer the Cheeses
Start by placing dollops of ricotta cheese evenly on the slightly baked crust. Follow this with slices of fresh mozzarella, ensuring they cover most of the surface. Finally, sprinkle shredded provolone over the top. The combination of these cheeses is what makes the White Pizza with Ricotta so irresistibly creamy.
Step 7: Final Bake
Return the pizza to the oven and bake for an additional 7 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the cheeses should be gooey and melted, while the crust turns a lovely golden brown. This final baking allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully for a satisfying experience.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once baked to perfection, remove the pizza from the oven and drizzle with a little extra olive oil for added richness. Let it cool for about 5 minutes before garnishing with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color. Now, slice your delicious White Pizza with Ricotta and get ready to enjoy a slice of Italian comfort!
White Pizza with Ricotta Variations
Feel free to adapt this delightful pizza recipe to match your taste preferences and dietary needs!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute all cheeses with vegan options like cashew cheese to create a creamy, plant-based delight.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pizza crust to enjoy this recipe without the gluten, ensuring everyone can partake in the deliciousness!
- Veggie-Packed: Top with sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or caramelized onions for a burst of flavor and nutrients.
- Herbed Twist: Add fresh herbs like oregano or thyme into the ricotta for an aromatic boost, elevating the pizza’s flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle with a spicy olive oil blend before serving to ignite those taste buds.
- Cheese Swap: Try swapping provolone for gouda or cheddar to introduce a new flavor; it’s a delicious way to reinvent this classic!
- Sweet Touch: Add a sprinkle of honey or fig jam after baking for an indulgent sweet-and-savory experience that will surprise your palate.
- Meaty Option: Enhance with cooked bacon or Italian sausage if you’re craving a heartier topping, providing that satisfying protein boost.
For additional inspiration on meal pairings, check out my delicious Arugula Salad or consider serving this pizza with Linguine with Clams for a true Italian feast! Ready to wow your family? Enjoy your pizza adventure!
What to Serve with Crispy White Pizza with Ricotta?
The perfect meal pairing can elevate your dining experience, making this delightful cheese-loaded pizza even more satisfying.
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Arugula Salad: A crisp, peppery salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness and balances flavors beautifully.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread adds comforting warmth and is perfect for mopping up any leftover cheese.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers bring color and a wholesome earthiness to your meal.
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Herbed Olive Oil Dip: A simple dip makes for a delightful addition. Drizzle with a blend of olive oil, fresh herbs, and a hint of balsamic.
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Linguine with Clams: This classic pasta dish introduces a touch of brininess that complements the creamy pizza perfectly for a full Italian feast.
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White Wine Spritzer: A light and refreshing spritzer enhances the meal while keeping the vibe casual and fun, perfect for family gatherings.
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Dessert Suggestion: Tiramisu: End the celebration on a sweet note with this creamy coffee dessert, which contrasts the savory pizza beautifully.
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Pineapple Coconut Smoothie: For a refreshing finish, a tropical smoothie pairs nicely with pizza, lending a sweet touch to round out the evening.
Make Ahead Options
These White Pizza with Ricotta are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can pre-bake the pizza crust and top it with cheeses up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. To maintain the quality, allow the assembled pizza to come to room temperature before baking. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. This way, you can enjoy a delicious, homemade pizza with minimal effort on those hectic weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze White Pizza
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to linger while keeping it fresh.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months for quick future meals.
Reheating: To reheat, place slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through, ensuring the crust stays crispy.
Storage Tip: If you’ve pre-baked the crust for your White Pizza with Ricotta, store it without toppings in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking, allowing for easy preparation!
Expert Tips for Crispy White Pizza
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Dough Preparation: Use room temperature dough for easier stretching. Cold dough can be tough to work with and may not rise well when baked.
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Cheese Balance: Don’t skimp on the cheese! A good blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and provolone makes your White Pizza with Ricotta truly irresistible; consider using fresh mozzarella for extra creaminess.
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Watch the Bake: Keep a close eye during the final baking stage; the cheese should be melty and bubbly, but avoid letting the crust get too brown.
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Customize Wisely: Feel free to add toppings after baking for fresh flavor—like arugula or sautéed vegetables. Just be cautious not to overload the pizza, which could make the crust soggy.
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Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. To maintain the crispy crust, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free pizza dough to easily adapt this recipe for those with dietary restrictions while still delivering great taste!
White Pizza with Ricotta Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pizza dough?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for a dough that’s fresh and flexible. If using store-bought, look for options labeled as “fresh” rather than “frozen.” This helps ensure a light and crispy crust. If making your own, allow the dough to rise in a warm environment to develop flavor and texture.
What’s the best way to store leftover white pizza?
For leftover white pizza, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the slices again, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to retain that lovely crispiness. Avoid the microwave, as that can make the crust soggy.
Can I freeze white pizza for later?
Certainly! Here’s how: Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This prevents freezer burn and keeps them fresh. You can freeze white pizza for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
What can I do if my pizza crust is soggy?
If your crust turns out soggy, there are a few steps you can take next time. First, ensure that you pre-bake the crust for about 5 minutes before adding toppings. This helps create a barrier to moisture. Additionally, avoid overloading the pizza with toppings—stick to a balanced amount, especially with moist ingredients.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Very! This white pizza is inherently vegetarian since it features no meat. However, be sure to check any additional toppings you may wish to add. If looking for dairy-free options, you can use plant-based cheeses. Enjoy the cheesy goodness without compromising your dietary preferences!
Can pets eat any part of this pizza?
While the ingredients in this white pizza are delicious for humans, it’s best to avoid sharing with pets. The garlic and certain cheeses can be harmful to pets. Instead, share plain, unseasoned dough or veggie toppings without cheese as a safe treat for your furry friends!
Crispy White Pizza with Ricotta for a Cozy Night In
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up. For a baking pan, lightly grease it with olive oil or sprinkle with cornmeal.
- Stretch your pizza dough into a 12-inch circle on a lightly floured surface. Let it rest if needed for easier handling.
- Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the dough, spreading evenly with a brush.
- Sprinkle minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper evenly over the oiled surface.
- Pre-bake the crust in the oven for 5 minutes until it starts to puff up.
- Layer dollops of ricotta, slices of fresh mozzarella, and then shredded provolone over the crust.
- Return the pizza to the oven and bake for an additional 7 to 10 minutes until the cheeses are melted and the crust is golden.
- Drizzle with extra olive oil and garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley. Let it cool for 5 minutes, then slice and serve.
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