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

Scale

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.

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

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!

Notes

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.