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White Pizza Recipe (Pizza Bianca) Recipe

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4.3 from 77 reviews

A delectable White Pizza Recipe (Pizza Bianca) featuring a crispy, golden crust topped with a creamy ricotta mixture, melted mozzarella, and savory Parmesan, all enhanced by a fragrant garlic-infused olive oil. This meatless, sauce-free pizza is rich in flavor and texture, perfect for those craving a balanced and satisfying artisanal pizza experience.

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

For the White Sauce & Toppings

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 23 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy, indicating that the yeast is active and ready to use. Then stir in olive oil and salt.
  2. Prepare the Dough: Gradually add all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Transfer to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic, creating a perfect pizza base.
  3. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap and allow it to rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size, acquiring a light and airy texture.
  4. Make Garlic-Infused Olive Oil: While waiting for the dough to rise, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a small skillet over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook gently for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside. This will flavor the crust and ricotta mixture.
  5. Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with a spoonful of the garlic-infused olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Optionally, add a bit of lemon zest for brightness and enhanced flavor.
  6. Shape the Dough: Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down to release air bubbles and divide it into two equal portions for two 10–12 inch pizzas. Roll or stretch one portion into a thin circle or oval shape to fit your baking sheet or pizza stone.
  7. Assemble the Pizza: Transfer the shaped dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or a preheated pizza stone. Brush the edges generously with the garlic oil to create a golden, flavorful crust. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly on top. Drizzle a little more garlic oil over the entire pizza surface for added richness.
  8. Bake the Pizza: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) or as hot as it safely goes for crispier results. Bake the assembled pizza for 10–13 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbling, and the crust turns golden brown and crisp.
  9. Serve and Enjoy: Remove from oven, let cool briefly, slice, and enjoy the perfect balance of crispy crust, creamy cheeses, and fragrant garlic flavors in each bite.

Notes

  • This white pizza offers a rich yet light alternative to traditional tomato-based pizzas, focusing on a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
  • Brushing the crust with garlic-infused olive oil before baking enhances the color and aroma of the crust.
  • Adding a pinch of lemon zest to the ricotta mixture is optional but adds a bright and refreshing note.
  • Use a pizza stone if available to achieve a crispier bottom crust similar to pizzeria-style pizzas.
  • Store any leftover dough in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a certified gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.