White Pizza

This delightful White Pizza recipe offers a creamy garlic base that makes it a unique twist on traditional pizza. Ideal for pizza night, this dish is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or simply indulging in a comforting meal at home. With its gooey mozzarella, flavorful ricotta, and aromatic herbs, it promises to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The straightforward steps make this pizza approachable for cooks of all skill levels.
• Deliciously Creamy: The garlic white sauce brings a rich flavor that stands out without the need for tomato sauce.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite ingredients like spinach or mushrooms to make it uniquely yours.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game night or a casual dinner, this pizza fits every setting.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: A great option for those looking for meatless meals that are still hearty and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To create your homemade White Pizza, having the right tools is essential. These items will help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pizza stone or baking sheet
• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Pizza stone or baking sheet: Provides even heat distribution for a perfectly baked crust.
• Rolling pin: Helps shape the dough evenly for consistent cooking.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly.
• Saucepan: Needed to prepare the creamy white sauce quickly and efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Dough (or use store-bought):
* 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
* 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
* 1 ¼ cups warm water (110°F / 45°C)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 teaspoon sugar
* 1 teaspoon salt

For the White Sauce:
* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 1 ½ cups whole milk (warm)
* 3 cloves garlic, minced
* ½ teaspoon salt
* ¼ teaspoon black pepper
* ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

For the Toppings:
* 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
* 1 cup ricotta cheese (in spoonful dollops)
* ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
* 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing crust)
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
* Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make White Pizza

Step 1: Make the Dough (if from scratch)

1. In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Stir in yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead for 8–10 minutes (or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5–6 minutes) until smooth and elastic.
4. Place in an oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel, and let rise for 1–1 ½ hours until doubled.

Step 2: Prepare the White Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
2. Stir in flour to create a roux; cook for about 1 minute without browning.
3. Gradually whisk in warm milk until smooth and thickened; stir continuously.
4. Add minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place your pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven to heat up as well.
2. On a floured surface, roll out your dough into a round shape (12–14 inches). Transfer it onto parchment paper.
3. Spread the white sauce evenly over the dough while leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top followed by dollops of ricotta cheese and finish with grated Parmesan.
5. Brush the edges of the crust lightly with olive oil and sprinkle dried oregano on top.

Step 4: Bake

1. Carefully transfer your pizza (on parchment) onto the hot stone or baking sheet.
2. Bake for about 12–14 minutes until the crust is golden brown and cheese is bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before slicing into pieces and serving warm. Enjoy your delicious homemade White Pizza!

How to Serve White Pizza

Serving White Pizza can be a delightful experience, as its creamy garlic base and melted cheeses make it a standout dish. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious pizza.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Arugula Salad: Toss fresh arugula with lemon vinaigrette for a peppery contrast.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with creamy Caesar dressing complements the richness of the pizza.
• Caprese Salad: Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a refreshing side.

Add Dipping Sauces

• Garlic Butter Dip: Melted butter with minced garlic enhances the garlic flavor in the pizza.
• Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle over slices for a sweet and tangy finish.
• Spicy Marinara: A small bowl of marinara adds a kick if you desire some traditional flavors.

Include Favorite Beverages

• White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the flavors of white pizza.
• Craft Beer: Opt for a light lager or hoppy IPA to contrast the creamy cheese.

How to Perfect White Pizza

Perfecting your homemade White Pizza involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to elevate your pizza-making game.

• Bold dough preparation: Ensure your dough rises properly for a fluffy crust by following resting times closely.
• Bold sauce consistency: Whisk the sauce continuously while adding milk to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth texture.
• Bold cheese selection: Use high-quality mozzarella and fresh ricotta for the best flavor and creaminess.
• Bold seasoning balance: Adjust salt and herbs according to taste; don’t shy away from experimenting with spices like nutmeg or thyme.
• Bold baking temperature: Preheat your oven well; a hot cooking surface ensures a crisp crust while keeping cheese bubbly.
• Bold garnishing choices: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley not only enhance presentation but also add vibrant flavor notes.

Best Side Dishes for White Pizza

To round out your meal, consider these tasty side dishes that pair well with your homemade White Pizza. They provide variety and complement the rich flavors of the pizza.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft bread knots brushed with garlic butter make an excellent appetizer.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted in olive oil add color and nutrition.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs offer an elegant touch.
4. Zucchini Fries: Crunchy zucchini fries seasoned with parmesan are a fun finger food option.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic is fresh and flavorful.
6. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, olives, and cheeses provides variety for sharing.
7. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil complements the warm pizza nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making White Pizza can be simple, but there are common mistakes that could affect the outcome. Here are some key points to keep in mind.

• Ignoring dough rising time: Not allowing the dough to rise properly can lead to a dense crust. Make sure to let it rise until it doubles in size for the best texture.

• Using cold ingredients for the sauce: Cold milk will not mix well and may result in a lumpy sauce. Always warm your milk before adding it to the roux for a smooth consistency.

• Overloading with toppings: While it might be tempting to add too many toppings, this can make the pizza soggy. Stick to the recommended amounts for optimal flavor and texture.

• Not preheating your oven: Skipping preheating can lead to an undercooked crust. Ensure your oven reaches 475°F (245°C) before baking for a perfect golden crust.

• Neglecting seasoning: A bland pizza can result from insufficient seasoning in your white sauce. Don’t forget to taste and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs before spreading it on the dough.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover White Pizza in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing White Pizza

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Frozen White Pizza is best consumed within 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating White Pizza

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake slices for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate with a damp paper towel on top. Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over medium heat, cover with a lid, and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is White Pizza?

White Pizza is a pizza that uses a creamy garlic sauce instead of traditional tomato sauce, topped with various cheeses and herbs.

Can I make White Pizza without ricotta cheese?

Yes! You can swap ricotta with other cheeses like goat cheese or even omit it entirely based on your preference.

How do I customize my White Pizza?

You can add toppings like spinach, mushrooms, or caramelized onions for extra flavor. The possibilities are endless!

What should I serve with White Pizza?

White Pizza pairs well with fresh salads or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

How long does homemade pizza dough last?

Homemade pizza dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

This homemade White Pizza is not only delicious but also versatile. With its creamy garlic base and melty cheeses, it offers a delightful twist on traditional pizza night. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or adjust the sauce according to your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every cheesy bite!