There’s something quietly magical about Pizza Bianca. Unlike its tomato-sauced cousin, this white pizza invites you into a world where simplicity and richness meet in perfect harmony. A golden crust, brushed with fragrant olive oil and garlic, bubbles beneath a blanket of creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. It’s the kind of dish that feels both indulgent and approachable—ideal for a casual dinner or a small gathering with friends.
I still remember the first time I pulled this pizza from the oven. The smell of garlic mingled with the warmth of melted cheese, filling the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. As I sliced into that crisp, golden crust, the cheeses stretched invitingly, promising every bite to be a melt-in-your-mouth experience. That first taste was a revelation: buttery, savory, and fresh with a hint of oregano and pepper. It was a quiet moment of joy—simple food bringing a genuine smile.
- Delivers a crispy, golden crust that’s delightfully chewy inside.
- The garlic-infused olive oil adds a fragrant, savory depth.
- Rich cheeses create a creamy, luscious texture without overwhelming.
- Quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.
- Flexible enough to pair with a simple salad or a glass of wine.
If you’re hesitant about making dough from scratch, don’t be. This recipe guides you through a straightforward process that’s surprisingly rewarding. Plus, the aroma wafting from your oven will make every minute worth it.
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Pizza Bianca (White Pizza)
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4
Description
Pizza Bianca, or White Pizza, is a delicious Italian flatbread topped with olive oil, garlic, and creamy cheeses instead of tomato sauce. This easy recipe yields a crispy, golden crust with a rich, cheesy topping perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for brushing
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
In a small bowl, combine warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons olive oil.
Mix with a wooden spoon until a rough dough forms. Transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat.
Punch down the dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll or stretch the dough into a 12-inch circle or rectangle, depending on your baking sheet or stone.
Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet or a pizza peel if using a stone.
Brush the dough generously with extra virgin olive oil. Evenly distribute the thinly sliced garlic over the dough.
Dot the pizza with spoonfuls of ricotta cheese, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top.
Sprinkle dried oregano and freshly ground black pepper over the cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
FAQ
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Absolutely. You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the fridge for an even better texture.
What can I serve alongside Pizza Bianca? A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables complement the rich flavors beautifully.
Is this pizza suitable for a crowd? Yes, it’s easy to scale up and always a crowd-pleaser thanks to its simple yet rich flavors.
Can I use different cheeses? Feel free to experiment! Just keep a balance between creamy and melty cheeses.
Give this elegant twist on pizza a try tonight. Once you experience the harmony of its crispy crust and luscious toppings, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again.