Description
White pizza, also known as pizza bianca, skips the traditional tomato sauce and instead features a rich, creamy garlic sauce topped with cheese and sometimes fresh herbs or vegetables. It’s a luscious, indulgent alternative to classic red-sauce pizza and perfect for when you’re craving something cheesy, garlicky, and comforting. With a crisp golden crust, velvety sauce, and gooey mozzarella, white pizza feels both rustic and elegant — great for family dinners, parties, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
For the Dough (or use store-bought):
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2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
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1 teaspoon sugar
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¾ cup warm water (110°F / 45°C)
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Garlic Sauce:
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3 tablespoons unsalted butter
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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1 ½ cups whole milk (warm)
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½ cup heavy cream
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
For the Toppings:
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1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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½ cup ricotta cheese (optional, dollops)
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¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
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Make the dough: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. In a larger bowl, whisk flour and salt. Add yeast mixture and olive oil, stirring until dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth. Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
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Prepare the garlic sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes. Gradually whisk in warm milk and cream until smooth. Simmer until slightly thickened (about 5 minutes). Stir in Parmesan, season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using. Remove from heat.
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Preheat oven: If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven and preheat to 475°F (245°C) for 30 minutes. Otherwise, prepare a greased baking sheet or pizza pan.
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Shape the dough: Punch down risen dough and roll out into a 12-inch circle. Place onto parchment (for stone) or baking sheet.
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Assemble the pizza: Spread garlic sauce evenly over dough. Sprinkle mozzarella on top, then add dollops of ricotta if using. Finish with Parmesan and drizzle with olive oil.
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Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes until crust is golden and cheese is bubbling.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Slice and enjoy warm.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including dough rising)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes