Ever wonder if a pizza can be rich and indulgent without a drop of tomato sauce? Meet White Pizza. This cheesy, garlicky dream skips the marinara and doubles down on creamy goodness, delivering bold flavor in every bite. It’s a favorite for weeknights when you want something cozy, or for gatherings when classic red-sauce pies need a twist.

What makes White Pizza stand out is its luscious base – typically a blend of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and sometimes a béchamel or infused olive oil. Topped with ingredients like spinach, roasted garlic, mushrooms, or even prosciutto, it balances creaminess with savory flair. Whether you’re baking it in a home oven or crisping it on a pizza stone, this no-sauce alternative proves that less (tomato) is more.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Getting White Pizza right starts with the right setup. You’ll need:

Pizza Stone or Steel: This is the secret to a crispy, evenly baked crust. It mimics the intense heat of a pizza oven.
Pizza Peel: For safely sliding the pizza into and out of the oven without losing its shape.
Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining the creamy cheese base and any toppings.
Rolling Pin or Hands: To stretch out the dough evenly.
Pastry Brush: Helps apply garlic oil or butter to the crust edges for that golden finish.
Baking Sheet (optional): If you don’t have a pizza stone, this is your go-to alternative.

Preheat your oven with the stone inside to at least 475°F for optimal results. Let your dough rest at room temperature so it’s easier to shape. With these tools in hand, you’re ready to create a pizza that feels straight from a pizzeria kitchen.

Ingredients for the White Pizza

Pizza Dough: The base of any great pizza. Use homemade or store-bought, but make sure it’s high-hydration for a chewy, airy texture.
Ricotta Cheese: Adds that creamy richness and acts as the sauce substitute.
Mozzarella Cheese: For melty stretch and mild flavor. Opt for whole milk mozzarella for best results.
Parmesan Cheese: Brings sharp, nutty notes that balance the soft cheeses.
Olive Oil: Infused with garlic or herbs, it provides depth and moisture.
Garlic: Freshly minced or roasted garlic intensifies the savory experience.
Salt & Pepper: To season the cheese blend and enhance all the flavors.
Fresh Herbs (Optional): Think rosemary, oregano, or thyme for an herby finish.
Toppings (Optional): Baby spinach, caramelized onions, mushrooms, or crumbled sausage can elevate your White Pizza.

How To Make the White Pizza

Step 1: Prep the Dough

Let your dough come to room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This makes it easier to stretch without tearing.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Base

In a bowl, mix ricotta, minced garlic, a drizzle of olive oil, salt, pepper, and a handful of Parmesan. Stir until smooth and spreadable.

Step 3: Shape and Prebake the Dough

Preheat your oven with the pizza stone at 475°F. Stretch the dough into a round or oval. Slide onto the hot stone for 3-4 minutes to partially bake.

Step 4: Layer the Toppings

Remove from oven. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly. Top with shredded mozzarella and any optional toppings like spinach or mushrooms.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Return to oven and bake for 7-9 minutes, until cheese is bubbling and the crust is golden.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Drizzle with garlic-infused olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Slice and serve hot!

How to Serve and Store White Pizza

White Pizza shines brightest when served fresh out of the oven. The cheeses are gooey, the crust is crispy, and the garlic oil is fragrant. For presentation, serve it on a wooden board and slice into wedges or squares depending on the shape. Pair it with a crisp arugula salad, a light Chardonnay, or a sparkling lemonade.

Leftovers? Store slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, skip the microwave. Instead, pop it into a 375°F oven or toaster oven for 6-8 minutes to revive the crust.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is White Pizza made of?

White Pizza is typically made with a ricotta-based sauce instead of tomato sauce, and it includes cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan. Olive oil, garlic, and herbs enhance the flavor.

Can I make White Pizza ahead of time?

You can prep the dough and cheese blend in advance. Assemble just before baking for the best texture and flavor.

What toppings go best with White Pizza?

Spinach, mushrooms, caramelized onions, prosciutto, and roasted garlic are all excellent. Avoid watery toppings like fresh tomatoes to maintain the crust’s crispness.

Is White Pizza vegetarian?

It can be! As long as your cheese and toppings are meat-free, it’s a delicious vegetarian option.

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Absolutely. Just let it rest at room temperature so it’s easier to work with.

What cheese works best for White Pizza?

A combo of ricotta for creaminess, mozzarella for meltiness, and Parmesan for flavor creates the perfect trio.

Want More Pizza Ideas?

If you’re craving more twists on traditional pies, there’s a whole world of comfort food waiting. Try the Pepperoni Pizza Casserole for a saucy, baked version that feeds a crowd. Or check out the Cheesy Pizza Tater Tot Casserole if you’re after crunchy, cheesy bites in every spoonful.

Love garlic and indulgence? The Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni is packed with creamy depth. For a speedy option, the Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce brings a rich, pizza-inspired sauce to your weeknight table.

Each of these recipes borrows the soul of pizza but transforms it into something new, hearty, and crave-worthy.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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If you bake it, I’d love to know how yours turned out. Did you add mushrooms? Try a different cheese blend? Drop a comment below. I’m always curious how others spin the classics.

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