White Pizza Recipe
White pizza might be the most underrated pie in the pizzeria lineup. No red sauce, no problem. A creamy blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan with plenty of garlic creates a rich, savory base that lets the cheese shine.
I started making white pizza at home when I wanted a break from tomato sauce but still craved that crispy, cheesy satisfaction. This version has a golden crust, a garlicky ricotta spread, and a salty Parmesan finish. It is simple, indulgent, and ready in about 35 minutes.
White Pizza Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring the pizza dough to room temperature for 1 hour before shaping.
- Place a pizza stone or steel in the oven and preheat to 500°F for at least 45 minutes.
- On a floured surface, divide the dough in half and stretch each into a 10 to 12 inch round. Transfer to a floured pizza peel.
- In a bowl, mix the ricotta, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Brush each dough round lightly with olive oil. Spread half the ricotta mixture over each, leaving a 1/2 inch border.
- Top with mozzarella and Parmesan. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if using.
- Slide onto the hot stone and bake 10 to 12 minutes, until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly with browned spots.
- Let cool 2 minutes, then top with fresh basil, slice, and serve.
Why You Will Love This White Pizza
The garlicky ricotta base is what sets this apart. It is creamy, savory, and bakes up beautifully under a blanket of mozzarella.
It is also incredibly versatile. Add spinach, mushrooms, or grilled chicken if you like, or keep it classic with just cheese and herbs. For another Italian classic, try my Margherita Pizza.
Ingredients You Will Need
You only need a handful of ingredients. Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture, and low moisture mozzarella so the pizza does not get soggy. The full measurements are in the recipe card below.
How to Make White Pizza
Step 1: Prep the Dough and Oven
Place a pizza stone or steel in the oven and preheat to 500°F for at least 45 minutes. A screaming hot surface is the secret to a crisp crust.
Step 2: Mix the Ricotta Spread
Stir together the ricotta, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Taste it. It should be well seasoned because this is the main flavor base.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Stretch the dough into rounds, brush with olive oil, and spread with the ricotta mixture. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan, then bake until golden and bubbly. If you love cheesy bakes, my Homemade Italian Lasagna is another crowd pleaser.
Tips for the Best White Pizza
Do not overload the cheese. A thin, even layer melts better and keeps the crust crisp. Let the pizza rest for 2 minutes before slicing so the cheese sets. For a great starter, pair it with Crispy Mozzarella Sticks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is white pizza?
White pizza is made without tomato sauce. Instead, it uses a base of cheese, olive oil, or ricotta, often with garlic and herbs for flavor.
Can I use store bought dough?
Yes. Store bought pizza dough works great. Just bring it to room temperature for an hour before stretching so it is easier to shape.
How do I prevent a soggy crust?
Preheat your stone or steel fully, use low moisture mozzarella, and do not overload the toppings. A hot oven and a thin cheese layer are key.
What toppings go well on white pizza?
Spinach, mushrooms, caramelized onions, grilled chicken, and fresh basil are all excellent. Keep toppings light so the crust stays crisp. For a creamy pasta night, try my Creamy Alfredo Pasta.
The Bottom Line
This white pizza proves you do not need red sauce for a great pie. Creamy, garlicky, and golden, it is a crowd pleaser that is easy enough for a weeknight. Learn more about pizza history on Wikipedia, and find excellent pizza technique guides at Serious Eats.
About the Author
Luke is the home cook and writer behind Lumomint Foods. He spends his time testing comforting, practical recipes from around the world and writing them up in plain, easy language for everyday cooks.