Hello pizza lovers! Today, we’re diving into the delicious and delightful world of Pizza Bianca—also known as White Pizza! If you’ve never tried making white pizza at home, you’re in for a real treat. With a combination of creamy cheeses and the fresh taste of basil, this recipe will become a new favorite for your dinner table. Whether you’re looking for a change from traditional pizzas or simply craving something cheesy and savory, this Best Pizza Bianca recipe has got you covered. Let’s jump in!
Introduction: What is Pizza Bianca?
Pizza Bianca, or White Pizza, originates from Italy and is beloved for its unique use of a cheese base instead of tomato sauce. The creamy ricotta, melted mozzarella, and salty pecorino romano create a symphony of flavors, with the perfect balance between richness and freshness.
This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make, especially when you use store-bought pizza dough. Whether you’re making it for a casual family dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, Pizza Bianca’s light, yet savory flavor is perfect for any occasion.
Explore this classic recipe with us, where comfort and simplicity meet in the form of the ultimate cheese lover’s pizza!
Read more about classic pizza styles here.
Ingredients for the Best Pizza Bianca
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 16 ounces fresh pizza dough (store-bought)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella
- 2/3 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 6 leaves fresh basil
- 2 tablespoons pecorino romano cheese, grated or finely shredded
Optional Substitutions:
- For gluten-free, use gluten-free pizza dough.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the cheeses with plant-based alternatives.
How to Make Pizza Bianca – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Remove the pizza dough from the fridge and place it in a medium bowl with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss the dough until it’s evenly coated and let it sit at room temperature for an hour. As it warms, the dough will grow, creating a fluffier crust.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). While waiting, mix the ricotta cheese with minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and salt. Set the mixture aside.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
Punch the dough down to remove any air bubbles. Spread the dough onto a large baking sheet using your fingers, shaping it until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Create a slight lip around the edges for the crust.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the dough, leaving about an inch from the edges for the crust. Then, add dollops of the ricotta cheese mixture across the pizza—around six portions. Place the basil leaves on top.
Step 5: Final Touches
Finish by sprinkling pecorino romano cheese on top and drizzling the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the pizza.
Step 6: Bake
Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese bubbles and the crust turns golden brown. Let the pizza cool for a couple of minutes before slicing into 8 pieces. Enjoy!
Explore more delicious homemade pizza recipes.
Helpful Tips for the Best Pizza Bianca
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil leaves and whole milk ricotta will significantly enhance the flavor of the pizza.
- Olive Oil Quality: Use extra virgin olive oil for drizzling; it adds a subtle richness.
- Perfect the Crust: Allowing the dough to sit at room temperature before shaping makes it more pliable, resulting in a better-textured crust.
Cooking Techniques for Perfect White Pizza
- Preheating the Oven: Ensure your oven is preheated fully before placing the pizza inside. This guarantees even cooking and a crispier crust.
- Cheese Placement: By placing mozzarella as the base and ricotta on top, you’ll create a wonderful texture contrast.
Serving Suggestions for Pizza Bianca
Pizza Bianca is best enjoyed with a light, refreshing side or beverage. Here are some pairing ideas:
- A fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
- A cold white wine like Pinot Grigio or a crisp beer
- Garlic breadsticks for dipping in olive oil
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 slice):
- Calories: 260
- Fat: 13g
- Carbs: 25g
- Protein: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
Storage and Leftovers for Pizza Bianca
Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how you can store and reheat your pizza without compromising on taste:
- Storing: Place any leftover slices in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: For the best results, reheat the pizza in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this will make the crust soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Pizza Bianca
Q1: Can I add toppings to Pizza Bianca?
- Yes! Feel free to add mushrooms, caramelized onions, or even some grilled chicken for extra flavor.
Q2: Is there a gluten-free option?
- Absolutely! Simply substitute the regular dough with your favorite gluten-free pizza dough.
Q3: What other cheeses work well for Pizza Bianca?
- Parmesan and fontina are great alternatives if you want to mix things up.
Q4: Can I make this pizza ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the dough and cheese mixture in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Related Recipes for Pizza Lovers
Looking for more cheesy goodness? Try these popular recipes:
Conclusion: Ready to Make the Best White Pizza?
There you have it, the ultimate recipe for The Best Pizza Bianca! Now it’s your turn to try it out. Whether you stick with the classic or add your own twist, we’d love to hear how it turns out. Drop us a comment below or share your variation of this recipe. Happy cooking!
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Best Pizza Bianca Recipe – Easy White Pizza at Home
Description
Hello pizza lovers! Today, we’re diving into the delicious and delightful world of Pizza Bianca—also known as White Pizza! If you’ve never tried making white pizza at home, you’re in for a real treat. With a combination of creamy cheeses and the fresh taste of basil, this recipe will become a new favorite for your dinner table. Whether you’re looking for a change from traditional pizzas or simply craving something cheesy and savory, this Best Pizza Bianca recipe has got you covered. Let’s jump in!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 16 ounces fresh pizza dough (store-bought)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella
- 2/3 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 6 leaves fresh basil
- 2 tablespoons pecorino romano cheese, grated or finely shredded
Optional Substitutions:
- For gluten-free, use gluten-free pizza dough.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the cheeses with plant-based alternatives.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Remove the pizza dough from the fridge and place it in a medium bowl with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss the dough until it’s evenly coated and let it sit at room temperature for an hour. As it warms, the dough will grow, creating a fluffier crust.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). While waiting, mix the ricotta cheese with minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and salt. Set the mixture aside.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
Punch the dough down to remove any air bubbles. Spread the dough onto a large baking sheet using your fingers, shaping it until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Create a slight lip around the edges for the crust.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the dough, leaving about an inch from the edges for the crust. Then, add dollops of the ricotta cheese mixture across the pizza—around six portions. Place the basil leaves on top.
Step 5: Final Touches
Finish by sprinkling pecorino romano cheese on top and drizzling the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the pizza.
Step 6: Bake
Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese bubbles and the crust turns golden brown. Let the pizza cool for a couple of minutes before slicing into 8 pieces. Enjoy!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil leaves and whole milk ricotta will significantly enhance the flavor of the pizza.
- Olive Oil Quality: Use extra virgin olive oil for drizzling; it adds a subtle richness.
- Perfect the Crust: Allowing the dough to sit at room temperature before shaping makes it more pliable, resulting in a better-textured crust.
