This authentic White Pizza, also known as Pizza Bianca, is a rich and flavorful Italian-style pizza made without tomato sauce. Instead, it features a creamy blend of ricotta, mozzarella, garlic, olive oil, and Pecorino Romano cheese layered over homemade pizza dough. Every slice is crispy on the outside, soft in the center, and packed with cheesy goodness and fresh herb flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

White pizza is the perfect choice for anyone who loves creamy and cheesy comfort food. Unlike traditional pizza, this version skips the tomato sauce and focuses entirely on the richness of the cheeses and herbs. The garlic and olive oil create an incredible aroma while the mozzarella melts beautifully over the crispy crust.

This recipe is easy enough for beginners but still feels special enough for a weekend dinner or homemade pizza night. It uses simple ingredients, comes together quickly, and can easily be customized with your favorite toppings. The homemade dough gives the pizza a fresh bakery-style texture that makes every bite delicious.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the pizza dough:

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)

1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)

1 teaspoon sugar

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

For the toppings:

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 ball fresh mozzarella cheese, torn into pieces

1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tablespoon olive oil, plus extra for brushing

Fresh basil or thyme leaves

Salt to taste

Optional toppings:

Fresh arugula

Crushed red pepper flakes

Extra mozzarella cheese

Directions

Start by activating the yeast. In a medium bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let the mixture sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture along with the olive oil. Mix everything together until a rough dough forms.

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until doubled in size.

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while preheating for a crispier crust.

Punch down the dough and roll it into a large circle or rectangle, depending on your preferred shape. Transfer the dough to a baking tray or pizza peel lined with parchment paper.

Brush the surface of the dough lightly with olive oil. Spread the ricotta cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Add the torn mozzarella pieces and sprinkle the Pecorino Romano cheese on top.

Scatter the minced garlic and fresh herbs across the pizza. Add a pinch of salt if needed.

Bake the pizza for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.

Remove from the oven and allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Add fresh arugula or extra olive oil if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8 slices

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes

Variations

For a more flavorful version, add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions before baking. Spinach also pairs beautifully with the creamy cheeses.

You can swap the Pecorino Romano with Parmesan cheese for a milder flavor. If you prefer extra richness, drizzle a small amount of garlic-infused olive oil over the pizza before serving.

For a crispier crust, bake the pizza directly on a hot pizza stone. You can also make this recipe using store-bought dough if you are short on time.

Chicken, artichokes, or olives can also be added for a heartier meal.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover white pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, place slices in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until the crust becomes crispy again. You can also reheat the pizza in a 375°F oven for about 8 minutes.

Avoid microwaving if possible because it can make the crust soft and chewy.

You can freeze baked pizza slices for up to 2 months. Wrap each slice tightly before freezing.

FAQs

What is white pizza?

White pizza is a pizza made without tomato sauce. It usually includes cheese, garlic, olive oil, and herbs.

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, store-bought dough works perfectly if you want to save time.

What cheese works best for white pizza?

Mozzarella and ricotta are the classic choices, but Parmesan or Pecorino Romano add excellent flavor.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be refrigerated overnight before using.

How do I make the crust crispier?

Use a pizza stone and preheat it before baking the pizza.

Can I freeze white pizza?

Yes, both the dough and baked pizza freeze very well.

Is white pizza vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is completely vegetarian.

What herbs go best with white pizza?

Fresh basil, thyme, oregano, and rosemary all work wonderfully.

Why is my pizza dough tough?

Overworking the dough or adding too much flour can make it tough.

Can I add vegetables to this pizza?

Absolutely. Spinach, mushrooms, onions, and artichokes are great additions.

Conclusion

This authentic White Pizza recipe is simple, creamy, and packed with classic Italian flavor. The combination of homemade dough, rich cheeses, garlic, and fresh herbs creates a comforting meal that feels both elegant and easy to make. Whether you serve it for a family dinner, pizza night, or a special gathering, this Pizza Bianca is guaranteed to become a favorite homemade recipe.

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