White Pizza

White Pizza is a delightful dish that offers a creamy twist on the traditional pizza. This unique recipe replaces tomato sauce with a rich garlic base, topped with melty cheese and fresh herbs. Perfect for family gatherings, casual dinners, or even as a special treat, this White Pizza is sure to impress everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Twist: The creamy garlic sauce provides a distinct taste that sets this pizza apart from the classic.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, you can whip up this delicious pizza without any fuss.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize with your favorite vegetables or cheeses to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s pizza night or a festive gathering, this dish fits right in.
• Kid-Friendly: The gooey cheese and mild flavors make it appealing for both kids and adults.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your White Pizza, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Pizza stone or baking sheet: Ensures an evenly baked crust with a crispy texture.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve an even thickness in the dough for perfect baking.

Ingredients

This homemade White Pizza skips the traditional tomato sauce and instead features a creamy garlic base topped with gooey mozzarella, ricotta dollops, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. With hints of garlic, herbs, and melty cheese, it’s a rich, savory twist on classic pizza that’s perfect for pizza night.

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

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 damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place 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 make a roux and cook for about 1 minute until lightly golden.
3. Slowly whisk in warm milk until smooth and thickened.
4. Stir in minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Pizza

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

Step 4: Bake

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

Step 5: Serve

Garnish your freshly baked White Pizza with chopped fresh basil or parsley before slicing into wedges to serve warm.

Enjoy your delightful homemade White Pizza!

How to Serve White Pizza

White pizza is a delightful dish that pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or enjoying a cozy night in, serving suggestions can elevate your dining experience.

Add Fresh Greens

• Arugula Salad: Toss fresh arugula with olive oil, lemon juice, and shaved Parmesan for a zesty contrast.
• Caprese Salad: Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a refreshing side that complements the pizza’s flavors.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Garlic Oil Dip: A simple blend of olive oil and minced garlic provides a flavorful dip for crust edges.
• Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic reduction over slices for a sweet and tangy finish.

Include Appetizers

• Stuffed Mushrooms: Fill mushrooms with a mixture of cheese and herbs for a savory bite before the main course.
• Bruschetta: Top toasted bread with diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic to create an easy appetizer that sets the mood.

How to Perfect White Pizza

Perfecting white pizza involves attention to detail in every step of the process. Here are some tips to ensure your creation is delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mozzarella and high-quality cheeses enhance flavor; avoid pre-shredded options when possible.
• Preheat Your Oven Well: Ensuring your oven is fully heated before baking will help achieve that crispy crust.
• Experiment with Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano can amplify the taste and aroma of your pizza.
• Don’t Skip the Garlic: Incorporating fresh garlic into both the sauce and as a topping adds depth and richness.
• Let Dough Rise Properly: Allowing enough time for dough to rise ensures a light and airy texture.

Best Side Dishes for White Pizza

Pairing side dishes with white pizza can round out your meal perfectly. Here are some fantastic options that complement its creamy flavors.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice; serve warm with butter and minced garlic for extra flavor.
2. Mixed Green Salad: Lightly dressed greens provide freshness that balances the richness of the pizza.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add depth and color to your meal.
4. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, marinated artichokes, and bell peppers offers variety alongside the pizza.
5. Pasta Primavera: Light pasta tossed with seasonal vegetables makes for a hearty side without overshadowing the pizza.
6. Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks topped with cheese make for an irresistible addition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making White Pizza can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Not letting the dough rise properly: Skipping the rising time can lead to a denser crust. Be sure to let it double in size for a light and airy texture.
• Using cold ingredients for the sauce: Cold milk can prevent the sauce from thickening properly. Always warm your milk before adding it to the roux.
• Overloading on toppings: Too many toppings can make your pizza soggy. Stick to a few quality toppings for the best flavor and texture.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking in a cold oven results in uneven cooking. Preheat your oven well before placing your pizza inside.
• Skipping the oil on the crust: Brushing olive oil on the crust adds flavor and helps achieve a golden color. Don’t skip this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pizza in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing White Pizza

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating White Pizza

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-60 seconds, but this may make the crust chewy.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, covering with a lid for 5-7 minutes until warmed and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making White Pizza.

What is White Pizza?

White Pizza is a type of pizza that uses a creamy garlic sauce instead of traditional tomato sauce, topped with mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheese.

Can I customize my White Pizza?

Yes! You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms or swap cheeses to suit your taste preferences.

How long does it take to make White Pizza?

If you’re making dough from scratch, it takes about 2 hours total, including rising time. If using store-bought dough, expect around 35 minutes total.

What can I serve with White Pizza?

Salads or simple appetizers complement this pizza well. Try serving it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread.

Can I use whole wheat flour for the dough?

Absolutely! Whole wheat flour can be used as an alternative for all-purpose flour to add extra fiber and nutrients.

Final Thoughts

This homemade White Pizza is both rich and satisfying, making it an excellent choice for any pizza night. Its creamy garlic base combined with melty cheeses offers endless customization options, allowing you to create something unique every time. Don’t hesitate to try different toppings or sauces; your perfect White Pizza awaits!