When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the timeless appeal of pizza. But if you’re looking to switch things up from the classic red sauce, white pizza might just be your new favorite. Known for its rich, creamy texture and irresistible blend of cheeses, white pizza—also called “pizza bianca”—offers a no-tomato twist on traditional pizza that’s perfect for cheese lovers.
In this post, we’ll walk you through how to make Homemade white pizza from scratch. Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests with something unique, this step-by-step guide has everything you need. From crafting a flavorful garlic white sauce to picking the best cheese combinations and toppings, get ready to create a creamy, cheesy delight right in your own kitchen.
Let’s dive in and discover how to bring this restaurant-quality pizza to life at home.
Homemade White Pizza
Ingrédients
For the Dough (or use store-bought):
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm water
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
For the White Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp dried oregano
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan
- 1 tsp dried basil or Italian seasoning
- Optional: sautéed mushrooms spinach, caramelized onions, arugula
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour, olive oil, and salt. Mix and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth.
- Cover and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Make the White Sauce
- Heat olive oil or butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk or cream until smooth.
- Add salt, pepper, oregano, and Parmesan cheese. Simmer until thickened. Set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Pizza
- Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface. Transfer to parchment paper.
- Spread the white sauce evenly over the dough.
- Add dollops of ricotta, then sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Add optional toppings and sprinkle with basil or Italian seasoning.
Step 4: Bake
- Transfer the pizza (with parchment) onto the hot baking surface.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from oven, let cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve.
Tips for the Best Homemade White Pizza
Making white pizza at home is surprisingly simple, but a few expert tips can elevate your pizza from good to absolutely unforgettable. From choosing the right dough to balancing cheese and sauce, here’s how to make your homemade white pizza the best it can be:
1. Use a High-Quality Pizza Dough
The foundation of any great pizza is the dough. Whether you’re making your own or using store-bought:
- Homemade dough gives you the most flavor and chewiness. Let it rise fully for a light, airy crust.
- Store-bought dough is convenient, but let it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before rolling to make it more pliable.
- If you’re aiming for a crispier base, consider using a pizza stone or baking steel preheated in the oven.
2. Don’t Skimp on the Garlic
Garlic is the heart of white pizza’s flavor. For best results:
- Sauté minced garlic in olive oil or butter to mellow the sharpness.
- Infuse it into your white sauce for a deep, aromatic base.
- For extra kick, sprinkle roasted garlic cloves on top before baking.
3. Choose the Right Cheese Combination
White pizza is all about creamy, cheesy indulgence. A balanced blend gives you richness, melt, and flavor:
- Ricotta cheese adds a creamy, fluffy texture.
- Mozzarella gives that classic stretch and gooey melt.
- Parmesan or Pecorino Romano adds a salty, umami-rich punch.
- Want a stronger flavor? Add a touch of goat cheese or fontina.
4. Keep the Toppings Simple
White pizza shines with minimal, thoughtful toppings. Since there’s no tomato sauce to cut through heaviness, balance is key:
- Use light veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or artichokes.
- For meat lovers, thin slices of prosciutto or grilled chicken work well.
- Avoid overloading the pizza to keep the crust crisp and the flavors clean.
5. Bake Hot and Fast
For that pizzeria-quality crust:
- Preheat your oven to 475–500°F (245–260°C) with a stone or steel inside.
- Bake your pizza on parchment for easier handling.
- Watch closely — the cheese should be bubbling and golden, and the crust should be slightly charred and crisp.
6. Finish with Fresh Herbs and Olive Oil
Right after baking, drizzle your pizza with a little extra virgin olive oil for richness and aroma.
Top with fresh basil, oregano, or arugula for a bright, peppery finish that cuts through the cheese beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions About White Pizza
White pizza is a deliciously creamy and savory twist on the traditional red sauce pie — but it often raises a few questions for first-time bakers and curious foodies. Below are some of the most common questions about homemade white pizza, answered in a simple and helpful way.
What Is White Pizza Made Of?
White pizza (also known as pizza bianca) is made without tomato sauce. Instead, it uses a creamy base — usually made from olive oil, garlic, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Some variations include béchamel (white sauce) or even alfredo sauce. The toppings are typically simple: herbs, fresh or sautéed vegetables, and occasionally meats like prosciutto or grilled chicken.
Is White Pizza Healthier Than Regular Pizza?
It depends on the ingredients. White pizza doesn’t contain acidic tomato sauce, which some people find easier on digestion. However, it’s often richer in dairy (cheeses and creamy sauces), which can make it higher in fat and calories. To lighten it up, you can:
- Use part-skim ricotta or mozzarella
- Add fresh vegetables like spinach or arugula
- Skip heavier sauces and use a garlic-olive oil base instead
Can I Use Store-Bought Dough for White Pizza?
Absolutely! Store-bought dough is a great time-saver and works wonderfully if you’re short on prep time. Just let it come to room temperature before stretching, as cold dough tends to tear or snap back. To give it a homemade feel, brush it with a little olive oil and season with garlic powder or Italian herbs before adding toppings.
What’s the Best Cheese Combo for White Pizza?
The magic of white pizza is in the cheese. A perfect combo often includes:
- Ricotta – creamy and mild
- Mozzarella – melty and stretchy
- Parmesan or Pecorino Romano – sharp and salty
- Fontina or Provolone (optional) – for a more robust flavor
Balance is key — too much cheese can make it greasy, and too little may leave it dry.
Can I Make White Pizza Without Ricotta?
Yes! While ricotta adds signature creaminess, you can use alternatives like:
- A thin layer of béchamel or white Alfredo sauce
- A mix of mozzarella and Parmesan only
- Cottage cheese (blended until smooth) as a lighter substitute
The goal is to maintain a rich texture, so feel free to experiment.
How Do I Store and Reheat White Pizza?
To store leftovers:
- Wrap slices in foil or place in an airtight container
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days
To reheat and keep the crust crispy:
- Use a skillet on medium heat until the bottom is crisp
- Or bake in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 5–7 minutes
- Avoid microwaving — it makes the crust chewy and soggy
Why Is My White Pizza Soggy?
This is a common issue, but easy to fix. Here’s what to check:
- Overloading with cheese or sauce: Keep it balanced
- Wet toppings like mushrooms or spinach: Pre-sauté them to release moisture
- Underbaked crust: Make sure your oven is hot enough — bake at 475–500°F for best results
- No preheating: Always preheat your oven and baking surface
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