There’s a special place in the world of pizza for white pizza—a dish that redefines what a pizza can be. Unlike the traditional pizza, which typically features a tangy tomato sauce, white pizza skips the sauce entirely and instead focuses on rich, creamy cheeses and fresh ingredients. The result is a pizza that’s decadently savory, with flavors that are delicate yet bold.
If you’re tired of the usual red-sauce pizzas and want to try something new, a white pizza might be just what you need. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this pizza offers a unique and satisfying alternative. In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to create the perfect white pizza, from ingredients to preparation, so you can enjoy a dish that’s rich in flavor and surprisingly easy to make.
Table of Contents
What Is White Pizza?
Before diving into the recipe, let’s explore exactly what makes white pizza so unique. A white pizza, also known as pizza bianca, is defined by its lack of tomato sauce. Instead, it features a creamy base that’s usually made from a mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, and olive oil. The absence of tomato sauce allows the other ingredients to shine, giving the pizza a different, yet equally satisfying, flavor profile.
The key to a great white pizza is balancing the richness of the cheese with fresh, aromatic ingredients. Whether you’re using garlic, spinach, or even chicken, the toppings you choose will complement the creamy base while allowing each bite to feel like a mini celebration of flavors.
It is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit different tastes. Some people like to keep it simple with just cheese and a drizzle of olive oil, while others prefer adding toppings like sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bacon for extra flavor. Regardless of how you top it, white pizza offers a delicious change from traditional pizza options.
Ingredients for the Best White Pizza
One of the reasons white pizza is so appealing is the simplicity of its ingredients. The focus is on high-quality, fresh items that come together to create a rich, satisfying dish. Let’s take a look at the essential ingredients you’ll need to create the perfect pizza.
Table: White Pizza Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pizza dough | 1 pizza base | You can use store-bought or homemade pizza dough. |
| Ricotta cheese | 1 cup | For a creamy texture. |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1 ½ cups | Fresh or shredded for the best melt. |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | For drizzling on top of the pizza. |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced for a fragrant, savory base. |
| Parmesan cheese | ¼ cup | Freshly grated for an added depth of flavor. |
| Fresh herbs (optional) | To taste | Such as basil, thyme, or rosemary. |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | For seasoning the pizza. |
| Optional toppings | As desired | For example, spinach, mushrooms, chicken, bacon. |
How to Make White Pizza From Scratch
Creating the perfect pizza is easier than you might think. With a few key ingredients and a little time, you’ll be able to make a restaurant-quality pizza in your own kitchen. Let’s break down the process into simple, easy-to-follow steps.
Step 1: Prepare the Pizza Dough
The first step to making any great pizza is preparing the dough. You can either make the dough from scratch or buy pre-made dough from the store. If you’re making the dough yourself, follow the instructions for your recipe, allowing it to rise properly for the best texture. When rolling out the dough, aim for a thickness that’s not too thin—about ¼ inch works well. If the dough is too elastic and keeps shrinking back, let it rest for 10 minutes before rolling it out again.
If you’re using store-bought dough, just follow the instructions on the packaging. Roll it out to fit your pizza pan or baking sheet, making sure it’s spread evenly.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Base Sauce
The next step is creating the creamy sauce that will serve as the base of your pizza. Start by mixing the ricotta cheese with a couple of tablespoons of olive oil. The olive oil not only adds richness but also helps the sauce spread evenly over the dough. Add the minced garlic to the mixture, along with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
The goal is to create a smooth, spreadable sauce that’s flavorful without being too overpowering. Once you’ve mixed everything together, spread the sauce evenly over the prepared pizza dough. Make sure to leave a slight margin around the edges to allow the crust to form.
Step 3: Add the Cheese & Toppings
Now comes the fun part: adding the cheese and toppings. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the ricotta base. Then, add a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This combination of cheeses will give the pizza that perfect melt and create a wonderfully gooey texture.
At this point, you can also add any additional toppings. Fresh spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or caramelized onions are all excellent options. Don’t hesitate to mix things up and try flavor combinations that match your personal preferences.
Step 4: Bake the Pizza
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). For best results, use a pizza stone if you have one, but a regular baking sheet will work just fine. Slide your pizza into the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust turns golden and the cheese is bubbly. Watch closely, since baking times may vary depending on your oven.
To ensure a crispy crust, you can also brush the edges of the pizza dough with a little more olive oil before baking. This will give the crust a beautiful golden color and a slightly crisp texture.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Once the pizza is out of the oven, it’s time to add the finishing touches. Drizzle the top of the pizza with a bit of olive oil and sprinkle on fresh herbs like basil or thyme for an extra burst of flavor. Slice the pizza and serve hot for the best taste experience.
Creative White Pizza Variations You Can Make at Home
Now that you’ve mastered the basics of a traditional white pizza, it’s time to explore some variations that can take your pizza game to the next level. White pizza is incredibly versatile, and the absence of tomato sauce allows more delicate flavors to come forward. From hearty meat toppings to fresh vegetarian twists, there’s a white pizza variation to suit every preference.
1. Spinach and Mushroom White Pizza
This is a classic vegetarian version that adds earthy flavor and color.
What you need:
- Sautéed mushrooms
- Fresh or sautéed spinach
- A touch of nutmeg in the ricotta base to enhance the spinach
The slight sweetness of the mushrooms balances perfectly with the creamy base, and the spinach adds a touch of green that makes it look as good as it tastes.
2. White Pizza with Chicken and Caramelized Onions
Adding chicken brings protein and substance to the pizza, while caramelized onions introduce a sweet-savory component.
Tips:
- Use leftover grilled or roasted chicken
- Cook onions slowly until golden brown
- Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for heat
3. Four Cheese White Pizza (Quattro Formaggi)
If you love cheese, this variation is a must.
Cheese Suggestions:
- Ricotta
- Mozzarella
- Gorgonzola or blue cheese
- Parmesan or fontina
Each cheese adds its own texture and flavor. Gorgonzola gives a sharp bite, while fontina melts beautifully.
4. White Pizza with Arugula and Prosciutto
This version offers a gourmet twist. Bake the pizza without the arugula and prosciutto, then add them just before serving.
Why it works:
- The warm pizza slightly wilts the arugula
- The salty prosciutto complements the creamy cheese base
- A drizzle of balsamic glaze can elevate the flavor even more
Expert Tips for Perfecting Your White Pizza
Creating a memorable white pizza isn’t just about the ingredients. Technique, timing, and attention to detail matter just as much. These pro tips will help you enhance the quality of every pizza you make.
H3: Use a Pizza Stone or Steel
Preheating a pizza stone or baking steel ensures your crust is crispy from the bottom. Place the stone in the oven for at least 30 minutes before baking.
H3: Don’t Overload with Cheese
It might be tempting to pile on the cheese, but too much can lead to a soggy crust. Balance richness with restraint.
H3: Season the Ricotta Base
Ricotta alone can be bland. Elevate it by adding salt, pepper, garlic powder, or even lemon zest for brightness.
H3: Pre-cook Moist Ingredients
Vegetables like mushrooms and spinach release water during baking. Sauté or roast them beforehand to prevent a watery pizza.
Inspiration from Other Great Recipes
If you’re looking for even more ideas, this white pizza recipe by Love and Lemons offers a clean, fresh spin using lemon zest and roasted garlic to brighten up the dish. Their method of brushing the crust with garlic oil before baking adds a deep, aromatic layer of flavor that’s incredibly satisfying. It’s a great example of how simple tweaks can completely transform the end result.
Another unexpected but highly complementary pairing comes from Mediterranean cuisine. This refreshing tzatziki chicken salad from My Recipe Sera can actually serve as an inspiration for a Greek-style white pizza. Imagine a creamy white base, topped with grilled chicken, red onions, and dollops of thick, tangy tzatziki sauce. The flavors are crisp, cooling, and perfect for warmer weather—ideal for a summer pizza night.
FAQs About White Pizza Recipe
What is the sauce on a white pizza?
Unlike red pizza, white pizza doesn’t use a tomato-based sauce. Instead, it usually features a mixture of ricotta cheese and olive oil, sometimes combined with garlic or herbs.
Can you use Alfredo sauce for white pizza?
Yes, Alfredo sauce is a popular option for those who want a richer, creamier white pizza base. Just be cautious with quantity—too much can make the pizza heavy and greasy.
Is white pizza healthier than regular pizza?
It depends on the ingredients used. White pizza typically has fewer acidic ingredients, which some people prefer for digestion. However, it can be higher in fat due to the cheeses used.
What toppings go best on white pizza?
Some of the best toppings include spinach, mushrooms, caramelized onions, chicken, bacon, and arugula. Fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil can enhance the flavor as well.
Serving, Storing, and Making White Pizza Ahead
Once your white pizza is fresh out of the oven—bubbling, golden, and fragrant—don’t forget that how you serve it matters just as much as how you made it. Let it rest for a couple of minutes before slicing to allow the cheeses to settle slightly. This helps you avoid a messy presentation and gives each slice structure and flavor in every bite.
H3: Serving Suggestions
- Serve it alongside a fresh green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness and add a bright contrast.
- Serve with a chilled glass of white wine or a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir.
- Top with fresh herbs like basil or thyme right after baking for a fragrant finish.
H3: Storage Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a skillet or oven rather than the microwave to maintain a crispy crust.
- Avoid freezing white pizza with delicate toppings, as they may not thaw well.
H3: Make-Ahead Prep
- Prepare the dough and cheese mixture a day ahead.
- Pre-cook all toppings and store separately.
- Assemble just before baking for optimal texture.
Final Thoughts and Call to Action
You now have everything you need to create your own homemade white pizza masterpiece—from the dough to the sauce to the toppings and beyond. White pizza offers a blank canvas for your creativity and tastes, allowing you to experiment with endless flavor combinations.
Ready to put your skills to the test? Try one of the variations we discussed, or create your own twist. Don’t forget to share your pizza creations and inspire others who are on the same delicious journey. Your kitchen is calling—it’s time to answer with a white pizza worth remembering.